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WestJet

Last verified 2026-06Request a Quote
In-cabin allowedCargo availableSummer embargo

In-Cabin

Max weight (pet + carrier): 20 lbs

Max carrier dimensions: 43 × 30 × 20 cm

In-cabin fee: $35 USD

Cargo

WestJet Pet'Air cargo program (via WestJet Cargo) accepts dogs and cats as unaccompanied freight. Contact WestJet Cargo directly for route eligibility and kennel-size pricing. Cargo embargoed May 15–Oct 31 (summer heat) and hairless breeds Dec 1–Mar 31 (winter cold).

Route Restrictions

In-cabin on domestic Canadian and select transborder US routes. Pet'Air cargo available on WestJet Cargo network routes — confirm specific station eligibility before booking.

Breed Restrictions

  • All brachycephalic breeds (in-cabin and cargo)
  • Hairless breeds (cargo embargo Dec 1–Mar 31 due to cold)
  • Pregnant or in-heat females not accepted

Summer Embargo

Cargo embargoed: May, June, July, August, September, October

Paws en route Notes

WestJet offers both in-cabin (small pets) and Pet'Air cargo (larger dogs and cats). The summer cargo embargo (May 15–Oct 31) is strictly enforced. In-cabin fee is priced in CAD; verify current USD equivalent.

Done-for-You Service

WestJet's breed rules can disqualify your pet at the gate.

Our IPATA-certified team checks your exact breed against WestJet's current restrictions, confirms cargo route eligibility, and handles the booking so nothing falls through.

Get a WestJet relocation quote

In-Cabin Carriers

WestJet Approved In-Cabin Pet Carriers

To fly in-cabin with WestJet, your carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed 43 × 30 × 20 cm. We stock carriers sized to fit — send us a note and we'll pair you with the right one.

Recommended: Low-Profile Carrier

Airline Approved Soft-Sided Low-Profile Carrier

Sized for WestJet's 20 cm height limit — fits flush under the seat without compression.

  • Leak-proof bottom
  • Ventilation on 3+ sides
  • Soft-sided to compress under seat

Cargo Kennels

WestJet Approved Cargo Crates & Travel Kennels

For pets traveling in the hold, WestJet enforces strict IATA CR-82 regulations. Wire crates and soft-sided bags are prohibited in the cargo hold. We source and size IATA-compliant kennels for your pet — send us a note to get started.

Recommended: IATA-Compliant Hard Kennel

IATA CR-82 Hard-Sided Travel Kennel

  • Rigid plastic or fiberglass construction
  • Metal nuts and bolts (no plastic snap clips)
  • Single-piece, spring-loaded metal door
  • Sized for pet to stand, turn, and lie down naturally

Book with this airline?

We verify WestJet's policy before every booking.

Policies change. We call the airline, confirm your breed is cleared, and lock in the pet booking — not just the human seat.

Plan your flight

Common Questions

WestJet pet travel — frequently asked

Does WestJet allow pets in the cabin?

Yes, WestJet allows small pets in-cabin on select routes. The combined pet and carrier weight must not exceed 20 lbs, and a per-trip fee of $35 USD applies. Always confirm eligibility on your specific route when booking.

Are there breed restrictions on WestJet?

Yes, WestJet restricts certain breeds including All brachycephalic breeds (in-cabin and cargo) and Hairless breeds (cargo embargo Dec 1–Mar 31 due to cold), among others. Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs and cats are most commonly affected. Contact our team for a breed-specific eligibility check before booking.

Does WestJet have a summer cargo embargo for pets?

Yes, WestJet suspends live animal cargo during May, June, July, August, September, October. Plan travel in shoulder seasons or contact our team to arrange alternative routing.

Popular Destinations

Pet import requirements by country

Each destination has its own import rules, microchip standards, and quarantine requirements. Check the guides below before you book.

Paws en route दुनिया भर में विशेषज्ञ पालतू जानवर परिवहन सेवाएँ प्रदान करता है। हमारे IATA-प्रमाणित विशेषज्ञ 150+ गंतव्यों तक अंतर्राष्ट्रीय पालतू जानवर परिवहन — कुत्तों और बिल्लियों सहित — का समन्वय करते हैं, और पशु चिकित्सा अनुपालन, सीमा शुल्क निकासी तथा वैश्विक डोर-टू-डोर कंसीयर्ज डिलीवरी का पूरा प्रबंध करते हैं।

IPATA — The Pet Shipping Experts