Updated 22 October 2026 at 12:19 am AEDT.

Planning pet travel in Australia? Virgin Australia offers a Pets in Cabin service for eligible small dogs and cats, but flying with a dog takes more than booking your own seat. Check the airline’s current requirements, your dog’s individual needs and the arrangements at your destination before making plans.

Illustrative carrier image only. It does not establish airline approval or suitability for your dog.

1. Check Virgin Australia’s pet policy before booking

For questions about Virgin Australia dogs in cabin, use the airline’s official Pets in Cabin requirements and booking information. At this review, its published requirements include a combined pet-and-carrier weight of no more than 8 kg, an approved soft-sided carrier with maximum dimensions of 44 cm long by 28 cm wide by 28 cm high, and enough room for the pet to stand, sit, turn around and lie down comfortably with the carrier closed.

Pets must remain inside their closed carrier at the airport and onboard, except during security screening or when using an animal relief area. In flight, the closed carrier stays under the seat in front. Check eligible domestic flights, availability, age and breed restrictions, documents, fees and all other conditions directly with the airline. Do not assume every route or aircraft accepts pets.

2. Decide whether flying suits your individual dog

In-cabin pet travel is an option, not a guarantee of a relaxed journey. Ask your vet about fitness to fly if your dog has health concerns, breathing difficulties, mobility issues or travel anxiety. Consider the whole trip, including airport waiting, transfers and accommodation. Avoid assuming cabin travel is automatically safer or less stressful for every dog.

3. Practise carrier routines before travelling with your dog

Introduce the carrier gradually at home, without forcing your dog inside. Reward voluntary investigation and short, comfortable sessions. A carrier that meets size limits must also meet the airline’s other requirements and fit your dog appropriately.

For supervised practice before the trip, compare familiar reward options such as Beef Liver dog treats or Kangaroo Jerky dog treats. Assess each product’s ingredients, texture and portion size for your dog. Treats are rewards, not a treatment for travel anxiety, and no product is automatically suitable for every allergy or sensitive stomach.

4. Plan dog travel essentials and food arrangements

Prepare required documents, waste bags, absorbent carrier lining and the water arrangements permitted by the airline. Confirm feeding guidance with your vet and airline rather than introducing a new food or supplement just before flying. Do not open a carrier onboard to offer a bone, chew or treat contrary to the airline’s rules.

Our Natural Dog Treats Australia collection lets you compare reward products for home practice or supervised use at your destination. A product appearing in the collection does not mean it is airline approved or suitable for use during a flight. Check any destination restrictions on carrying pet food separately.

5. Check the journey beyond the flight

Confirm pet-friendly accommodation and ground transport, and allow time for toilet breaks and familiar routines. If your holiday also involves driving, read our dog jerky and road-trip planning guide. For activities at your destination, explore practical mental enrichment ideas for dogs.

Pet travel Australia FAQs

Compare dog treats for supervised reward routines