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Can you fly into Ireland with a dog in the cabin?

Yes, you absolutely can fly your dog and cat to Ireland with you! If you are bringing a pet to Ireland from the USA, you need to comply with certain requirements including proof of rabies vaccine connected to your pet's microchip. Additionally for Ireland & UK (but not all EU countries), a required tapeworm treatment.



As of 2026, the rules for flying into Ireland with a dog in the cabin have become significantly more flexible, but they still depend entirely on your point of origin and the airline. If you are flying from within the European Union, many airlines like KLM, Lufthansa, and Air France allow small dogs (usually under 8kg including the carrier) to fly in the cabin to Dublin. However, if you are flying from the United Kingdom, most airlines still prohibit "in-cabin" pets due to UK-specific carrier rules, forcing pets into the hold. For travelers from the United States, Delta and certain other carriers now allow small dogs in the cabin on direct flights to Dublin, provided the dog stays in a TSA-approved carrier under the seat. You must strictly follow the "Entry Requirements" which include a valid EU Pet Passport or an Annex IV Health Certificate, a microchip, a rabies vaccination at least 21 days prior, and a specific tapeworm treatment administered by a vet 24-120 hours before arrival. It is vital to notify the Irish Department of Agriculture (DAFM) at least 24 hours in advance via an online "Advance Notice" form to ensure a smooth inspection upon landing.

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Your pet can travel on the plane with you (either in-cabin, as accompanied baggage, or as cargo). Your pet will be charged accordingly. Some airlines no longer offer this option and some countries do not allow pets to enter the country in-cabin. You can book your pet on a separate flight.

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Many airlines allow pets to fly in the cabin as a carry-on, so long as they stay inside a carrier that's small enough to fit under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight. Southwest, Alaska, United, American, Delta, Hawaiian, Spirit, and Frontier are some of the airlines that allow pets as carry-ons.

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British Airways does not permit pets to travel in the cabin with the exception of medically approved service dogs.

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RyanAir does not permit any type of live animal to fly in the cabin of its aircraft unless it is a guide or assistance dog trained to perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability (physical, sensory or psychiatric) and must be certified by an organisation that is a full member of Assistance Dogs ...

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Most airlines also require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) issued within 10 days of travel. Federal regulations require pets to be at least 8 weeks old and they should be weaned at least 5 days before flying.

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The whole process of flying can be stressful for a dog, but those levels of stress can be greatly reduced with a few simple home comforts and reassurances. Ensuring your flight is a non-stop flight rather than one with changeovers can be a huge benefit to your dog, as can looking to travel at a suitable time.

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Most airlines require that the carrier with the pet inside weighs no more than 8kg (about 17.6lbs). Alitalia is the only airline to allow slightly heavier pets in cabin on flights between the US and Europe with a maximum weight of 10kg (about 22lbs). Condor and OpenSkies limit the weight to 6kg (about 13.2lbs).

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Animals can be transported either in the cabin and/or in the cargo hold: No more than two animals (dog or cat) in the cabin (in an approved transport container) or no more than two animals in the cargo hold (in one or two approved transport containers)

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In-Cabin Pet Policy easyJet does not permit any type of live animal to fly in the cabin of its aircraft. Sevice animals may travel on selected flights. Handlers are encouraged to contact customer service ahead of booking.

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However, some airlines just don't allow pets in the cabin and to ensure that no passengers suffer from an allergic reaction while on board. Airlines must choose to put the needs of their human passengers first.

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You need an EU pet passport issued by an EU country or one of the countries listed above, to enter Ireland. The pet passport must be stamped by a vet to show that the rabies vaccination has been given.

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