PAL Now Allows Small Dogs on All Domestic Flights in the Philippines

Travelling with your dog around the Philippines just became much easier. Philippine Airlines has expanded its FurPAL program, officially allowing small dogs to fly in-cabin on all domestic flights. For fur parents, this update removes one of the biggest stresses of travel: leaving a pet behind.

With the expansion, passengers can now bring their small dogs onboard flights to any PAL domestic destination. Whether it’s a short city break or a longer island escape, dogs that meet the airline’s requirements can stay close to their owners throughout the journey, making travel feel more personal and less worrying.

This move also reflects a growing shift towards more pet-friendly travel in the country, especially for travellers who consider their dogs part of the family rather than just pets.

What travellers need to know before booking

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While the update makes travel more convenient, there are still clear rules that passengers must follow. Only small dogs are allowed under the in-cabin FurPAL option, and the combined weight of the dog and its carrier must fall within PAL’s limits. Dogs must be at least eight weeks old, fully weaned, and healthy enough to fly. Each passenger is allowed to bring one dog only, and flights have a limited number of pet slots, so advance coordination with the airline is important.

Dogs must remain inside a soft-sided, leak-proof carrier at all times, and the carrier should be placed under the seat in front of the passenger. Removing the dog from the carrier during the flight is not allowed, as this is part of the airline’s safety and comfort guidelines for everyone onboard.

Proper documentation is also required. Travellers must present updated vaccination records, a valid veterinary health certificate, completed airline forms, and a Bureau of Animal Industry shipping permit for domestic travel. The service comes with an additional fee, charged separately from the plane ticket.

Tips for flying with your dog

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Preparing ahead can make a big difference, especially for dogs flying for the first time. It helps to visit the vet early to complete all paperwork and confirm that your dog is fit to travel. Allowing your dog to get used to the carrier days before the flight can reduce anxiety, as familiar spaces tend to feel safer.

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On travel day, arriving at the airport early gives enough time for document checks without rushing. Keeping yourself calm also helps, as dogs often sense and reflect their owner’s emotions. During the flight, gentle reassurance and following cabin crew instructions can make the experience smoother for both you and your pet.

Why this matters for domestic travel

For many travellers, this update opens up new possibilities. Weekend trips, family visits, and longer stays no longer require complicated pet arrangements. Having dogs fly in-cabin allows owners to monitor their pets throughout the journey, which brings peace of mind and encourages more responsible pet travel.

As more people look for flexible and meaningful ways to explore the Philippines, pet-friendly options like this are becoming just as important as seat comfort or baggage allowance.

With small dogs now welcome in-cabin on all PAL domestic flights, travelling the country feels more inclusive and a little more heartwarming. For fur parents who have been waiting for the right moment to travel with their dogs, this change might finally be the sign to book that trip.