For the safety of our animals, Brachycephalic (Short-Nosed) dogs and cats are not accepted for travel in the cargo compartment. Veterinary experts advise that short-nosed pets may have breathing challenges that can be worsened by the stress of air travel.

This policy applies to the following breeds and any mixed breeds containing these types:

Dogs

Boston Terrier, Boxer (all breeds), Bulldog (all breeds), Brussels Griffon, Chow Chow, English Toy Spaniel, Japanese Spaniel/Japanese Chin, Mastiff (all breeds), Pekingese, Pug (all breeds), Shih Tzu.

Cats

Burmese, Exotic Shorthair, Himalayan, Persian.

In-Cabin Travel

Short-nosed dogs and cats may still travel in the cabin with their passenger, provided the pet carrier fits safely under the seat in front of you. Please refer to the Alaska Airlines - Traveling with Pets page for in-cabin requirements and booking details.

Hawai'i has strict laws regarding the importation of animals. Shippers must determine and comply with local, state and federal export, transit and entry requirements. Any expenses, penalties or fees resulting from noncompliance with all requirements are the burden of the shipper.

The State of Hawai'i is quarantined to prevent the spread of plant and animal pests and diseases. &Certain restrictions apply to cargo traveling to/from the state of Hawai'i and the U.S. mainland. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal Plant and Health Inspection Services (APHIS) and Hawai'i Agriculture regulate these restrictions.

For additional information, please refer to:

• State of Hawai'i - Importing animals to Hawai'i from the US mainland
• State of Hawai'i – Animal quarantine information page

To help keep pets safe and comfortable, weather conditions are carefully reviewed for all cities on your pet’s itinerary, including departure, transfer, and arrival points.

• Pets may not be accepted for travel when forecasted temperatures at the time of acceptance are above 85°F (29.5°C) or below 45°F (7°C) at any point on the itinerary. In some locations, animals may be accepted when the weather is over 85°F (29.5°C). The Cargo Call Center can help you determine station limitations.
• When temperatures fall between 45°F and 85°F, pets are generally accepted, provided all other travel requirements are met.

Cold‑Weather Exceptions

• Travel may be permitted at temperatures below 45°F if a certificate of acclimation from a licensed veterinarian is provided.
• The certificate must specify the temperatures to which your pet is acclimated and be issued within 10 days of travel.

Weather conditions are evaluated on the day of travel, and acceptance may vary by location based on facility capabilities and forecasted conditions. For the most current information, please review our Operational News and Alerts page before traveling.