Westjet Pet Travel Policy

WestJet Pet Policy

WestJet is one of the most pet-friendly airlines out there and it ensures that the pets on board have a safe and comfortable journey. This Canadian airline allows pets to travel as carry-ons, as checked baggage and in-cargo in its flights. As there are certain limitations to the number of pets allowed on board, bookings for your pet should be made on time. It is of prime importance to be aware of the airlines’ specific pet policies to understand the requirements and prepare for a safe and comfortable journey for your pet(s).

Pet Criteria

WestJet allows dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, chinchillas, guinea pigs and hedgehogs that are no less than 8 weeks old to fly with the airline.

In-cabin

The airline permits passengers to travel with one pet each in the cabin. The pet must remain in his/her carrier throughout the journey and the pet carrier must fit in the space beneath the seat in front of the passenger. The pet carrier must be well-ventilated, soft-sided, leak-proof, secured and airline-approved, and its dimensions must not be more than 16 x 10 x 8.5 inches in order for it to be acceptable as a carry-on.

Checked Baggage

Certain pets are welcomed by WestJet to fly as checked baggage but with some restrictions. The kennel carrying the pet must not weigh more than 100 lb. and its dimensions must not be more than 40 x 27 x 30 inches for it to be acceptable for transportation. The kennel must be spacious enough for the pet to stand, sit and move freely as well as be equipped with bowls containing food and water. For safety reasons, the airline does not permit pets to travel from December 15th to January 5th every year.

In-cargo

Pets traveling on their own and the ones which exceed the maximum weight limit can be transported via WestJet cargo service.

Emotional Support/Service Animal

Service dogs and emotional support animals are accepted by the airline to fly in-cabin at no additional cost, provided that the dogs are certified to perform their duties and fully trained to provide emotional support. Passengers having cognitive, physical or emotional disability is allowed to carry one pet with him/her. There is no documentation required but just a credible verbal assurance that the dog is a service animal. In case of emotional support dog, the passenger needs to produce a document stating that the said animal is a trained emotional support animal, the medical certificate of the passenger and the health report of the dog issued by its veterinarian.