Traveling with animals is no longer a niche concern—it’s a mainstream travel planning priority. As more passengers consider pets part of the family, understanding airline-specific rules becomes essential before booking. Ryanair, Europe’s largest low-cost carrier, operates under a highly standardized model that significantly affects pet travel options. This guide delivers a clear, Flying with pets on Ryanair? Learn the latest Ryanair pet policy, rules, restrictions, and which animals are allowed on board before you book.
Whether you’re relocating, planning a holiday, or traveling with an assistance animal, this article cuts through assumptions and misinformation to give you definitive answers. For official confirmations, policy clarifications, or booking support, Ryanair customer assistance can be reached at +1-877-593-4887.
Quick Overview: Ryanair & Pet Travel at a Glance
Ryanair does not allow pets in the cabin or cargo
Only recognized service dogs are permitted on select routes
Emotional support animals are not accepted
Strict documentation and pre-approval apply
Alternative airlines may be required for most pet owners
Customer support is available at +1-877-593-4887
Understanding Ryanair’s Approach to Pet Travel
Ryanair’s business model is built around operational efficiency, rapid aircraft turnaround, and uniform cabin configuration. Unlike full-service airlines, Ryanair does not offer specialized onboard services such as pet cabins, temperature-controlled cargo holds, or in-flight animal handling teams.
As a result, the Ryanair Pet Policy is among the most restrictive in Europe. This is not a temporary limitation or route-specific exception—it is a structural policy decision.
For travelers, this means pet transport planning must start before choosing Ryanair as an airline.
Does Ryanair Transport Pets? A Policy Breakdown
Standard Pets (Cats, Dogs, Small Animals)
Ryanair does not transport:
Cats
Small or large dogs
Rabbits, birds, reptiles, or rodents
Pets in carriers (soft or hard-sided)
This applies to:
Cabin travel
Checked baggage
Cargo hold transport
There is no paid option, exception fee, or seasonal allowance. If your journey requires your pet to travel with you, Ryanair is generally not suitable.
For travelers needing clarification before booking, Ryanair’s assistance team is reachable at +1-877-593-4887.
Service Dogs on Ryanair: What Is Allowed
While standard pets are excluded, Ryanair does recognize certified assistance dogs under strict conditions.
Eligible Service Dogs
Accepted animals include:
Guide dogs for visual impairments
Hearing dogs
Mobility assistance dogs
These must be:
Trained by an accredited organization
Required for a passenger’s disability
Fully documented and pre-approved
This framework is formally referred to as the Ryanair service dog policy.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
Emotional support animals are not permitted on any Ryanair flight, regardless of size, training claims, or documentation.
Route Restrictions for Service Dogs
Service dogs are only accepted on specific routes, primarily within:
The UK
Ireland
Selected EU domestic and short-haul routes
They are not allowed on:
Long-haul partner routes
Flights involving countries with animal import bans
Certain island or regional airports
Route eligibility should always be confirmed in advance via +1-877-593-4887.
Documentation Requirements for Service Dogs
Passengers traveling with an assistance dog must submit documentation well ahead of departure.
Required Documents
Proof of recognized training organization
Veterinary health certificate
Up-to-date rabies vaccination
EU Pet Passport or equivalent
Route-specific entry permits
Failure to provide complete documentation results in denied boarding.
Booking Process for Flying With a Service Dog
Ryanair does not allow service dog bookings to be completed entirely online.
Step-by-Step Booking Process
Book your passenger ticket first
Notify Ryanair of your assistance dog
Submit documentation for approval
Receive written confirmation
Arrive early on departure day
Assistance with this process is available at +1-877-593-4887, which is strongly recommended for first-time travelers.
Why Ryanair Does Not Allow Pets
Understanding the reasoning helps manage expectations.
Key Operational Factors
Single aircraft type (Boeing 737)
No climate-controlled cargo for animals
No onboard veterinary or animal handling staff
Tight turnaround schedules
These constraints directly shape the Ryanair pet travel rules, prioritizing efficiency over service flexibility.
Benefits of Ryanair’s Policy (From an Airline Perspective)
While restrictive, the policy does offer:
Lower base fares for passengers
Reduced operational risk
Faster boarding and disembarkation
Predictable cabin environment
However, for pet owners, these benefits rarely outweigh the limitations.
Restrictions and Limitations Travelers Must Know
No in-cabin pets, regardless of size
No paid exceptions
No seasonal allowances
No cargo transport partnerships
Travelers often assume budget airlines are flexible with add-ons—this is not true for pets on Ryanair.
Comparison: Ryanair vs Other European Airlines
Ryanair maintains the most restrictive stance on pet travel among major European airlines. It does not allow pets in the cabin or cargo hold under any circumstances. The only exception applies to certified service dogs, which are accepted on limited routes and travel free of charge when all documentation and approvals are completed in advance.
Lufthansa offers one of the most comprehensive pet travel programs in Europe. Passengers can transport pets in the cabin or in the cargo hold, depending on size and weight. Certified service dogs are fully accepted. Typical pet fees range from €60 to €150, varying by route and animal size.
Air France allows pets in both the cabin and cargo, making it a popular choice for travelers relocating with animals. Service dogs are permitted without charge, while standard pet transport fees generally fall between €40 and €200, depending on destination and pet category.
KLM provides flexible pet travel options, including in-cabin and cargo transport, along with full acceptance of service dogs. However, KLM’s pricing can be higher than competitors, with typical pet fees ranging from €75 to €400, particularly on long-haul routes.
Vueling allows small pets to travel in the cabin, but does not offer cargo transport for animals. Service dogs are accepted in compliance with EU regulations. Pet fees are comparatively moderate, usually between €50 and €70, depending on the route.
Practical Guidelines for Pet Owners Considering Ryanair
Best Practices
Confirm policies before booking
Never assume cabin exceptions
Use airlines with dedicated pet services
Book early for limited service dog slots
Expert Tip
If your itinerary includes Ryanair but your pet cannot fly, consider:
Ground transport options
Multi-airline itineraries
Temporary pet relocation services
Support teams at +1-877-593-4887 can help assess viable alternatives.
Common Misconceptions About Ryanair and Pets
“Small pets can fly in carriers” – False
“Paying extra allows pets” – False
“Emotional support animals are allowed” – False
Accurate planning depends on understanding the Ryanair dog policy, which is narrower than most competitors.
Contacting Ryanair for Pet & Service Dog Assistance
For:
Route eligibility
Documentation confirmation
Booking support
Policy verification
Passengers should contact Ryanair directly at +1-877-593-4887. This is the most reliable way to avoid last-minute travel disruptions.
FAQs: Ryanair & Pet Travel
1. Does Ryanair allow pets on flights?
No. Ryanair does not allow standard pets on flights in the cabin, as checked baggage, or in cargo. Only recognized service dogs are permitted on select routes with prior approval.
2. Can dogs fly in the cabin on Ryanair?
Only certified assistance dogs are allowed in the cabin. Companion dogs, regardless of size, are not permitted under the Ryanair pet policy cabin rules.
3. Does Ryanair allow service dogs?
Yes. Ryanair allows trained and certified service dogs on approved routes, subject to documentation and advance notification.
4. Are emotional support animals allowed on Ryanair?
No. Emotional support animals are not accepted on Ryanair flights under any circumstances.
5. What documents are required for a service dog on Ryanair?
Passengers must provide training certification, health records, vaccination proof, and route-specific entry documents.
6. Are there any Ryanair flights that allow pets in cargo?
No. Ryanair does not transport animals in cargo or hold areas.
7. Can I bring a small pet in a carrier on Ryanair?
No. Size or carrier type does not change Ryanair’s prohibition on pets.
8. Which animals are permitted to fly with Ryanair?
Only recognized service dogs trained by accredited organizations are permitted.
9. What are the alternatives if Ryanair doesn’t allow pets?
Consider airlines like Lufthansa, Air France, or KLM, which offer structured pet transport services.
10. How do I book a Ryanair flight with a service dog?
Book your ticket first, then notify Ryanair and submit documentation for approval. Assistance is available via +1-877-593-4887.
Final Thoughts: Is Ryanair Right for Pet Owners?
Ryanair is a cost-efficient airline—but it is not pet-friendly. For most travelers with animals, the limitations are decisive. The airline’s strict structure leaves no room for exceptions, fees, or creative workarounds.
For passengers traveling with certified assistance dogs, compliance and preparation are essential. For everyone else, choosing a pet-accommodating airline will save time, stress, and unexpected disruptions.
For policy confirmation, booking help, or alternative planning, Ryanair assistance remains available at +1-877-593-4887.