Hi, I'm Merlot
A 28kg Golden Retriever who flies in the cabin as a trained Service Dog.
Flying with your dog or cat? Every country, airline, and route has different rules — make sure everything is approved before you get to the airport.
How Merlot Flies
You might have seen me on Instagram with over 10 million monthly views. I'm a 28kg Golden Retriever and a trained Service Dog. People often ask how a big dog like me fits in the cabin.
See Merlot in Action
Merlot's Picks
Every product is personally tested and approved by Merlot. Curated collections for dogs who love to fly in style.
Merlot's Favorite Toys
Tested & Approved
Every toy on this list has survived Merlot's Golden Retriever enthusiasm. From indestructible chew toys to brain-teasing puzzles — these are the ones he actually loves.
Merlot's Wardrobe
Style Meets Function
From cozy travel sweaters to his iconic bandanas — Merlot's wardrobe is both functional and fashionable. Perfect for dogs who fly in style.
Pre-Flight Essentials
Merlot's Travel Must-Haves
Everything you need for a smooth flight with your dog. These are the exact products we use every time Merlot boards a plane — from collapsible bowls to calming aids.
Browse all of Merlot's curated collections in one place
Merlot's Wardrobe
From Superman capes to cozy pajamas — Merlot's wardrobe is as famous as his flights. Functional, fashionable, and always Instagram-ready.
Shop the Wardrobe
Official Partner
Paws Abroad
Flying with your dog or cat?
Make sure everything is approved before you get to the airport.
Every country, airline, and route has different pet travel rules. Paws Abroad generates a personalized travel plan for your pet, airline, and destination so you know exactly what paperwork, vaccinations, and documents are required before you fly.
Avoid last-minute surprises, denied boarding, or missing paperwork.
DIY Planner
Know Exactly What Your Pet Needs Before You Fly
Enter your pet's breed, airline, and destination to generate a step-by-step travel plan tailored to your exact route.
Your plan includes:
- Required health certificates
- Vaccination and timing requirements
- Airline pet policies
- Document deadlines before departure
- Import requirements for your destination
- Access to vetted pet travel resources by location
- Community support from other pet parents
So you know exactly what paperwork and preparation your pet needs before travel day and avoid surprises at the airport.
Get My Personalized Travel PlanStarting at $47 · Instant access
Expert Concierge
Get Expert Help Planning Your Pet's Journey
Pet travel can become complex especially with international routes, multiple flights, or large dogs. Our concierge team helps guide you through the process so you don't risk missing paperwork, airline requirements, or critical travel steps.
We can help with:
- Route planning for complex international travel
- Airline approvals and pet travel logistics
- Health certificate and document preparation
- Private charter and shared charter options
- Preparing your pet for safe travel
Perfect for pet parents who want expert guidance and peace of mind throughout the process.
Speak With a Pet Travel SpecialistPersonalized expert support
Paws Abroad· Trusted by pet parents in 14+ countriesFlight Prep Checklist
A smooth flight starts 24 hours before takeoff. Here are my top tips for a happy journey.
No Food Before Flight
Stop feeding 4-6 hours before flight to prevent nausea and accidents.
Walk Before Flight
A long walk and potty break right before entering the airport is crucial.
Water is Okay
Keep them hydrated, but offer small amounts. Bring a portable bottle.
Carrier Training
Make sure they love their carrier weeks before the trip. It should be a safe space.
Service Dog Rules
Not every dog can fly in the cabin. Here's what makes Merlot different.
Merlot flies in the cabin because he is a registered Service Dog. This status is earned through years of rigorous professional training, not just a certificate.
Serious Training Required
Service dogs undergo hundreds of hours of specialized training to perform specific tasks and remain perfectly calm in high-stress environments like airports and planes.
Not an ESA
Important: Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are not Service Dogs. Most major airlines no longer accept ESAs in the cabin. Only fully trained Service Dogs are granted flight privileges.
What Airlines Require
- • DOT Service Animal form completed 48 hours before departure
- • Proof of training and health/vaccination records
- • Dog must be harnessed and under handler's control at all times
- • Dog must fit within handler's foot space without blocking aisles
Shop Merlot's Favorites on Amazon
Toys, travel gear, and stylish outfits — all tested by Merlot himself.
Airline Pet Cabin Rules
If your dog is not a service dog, these are the standard weight limits for pets in the cabin.
Turkish Airlines
CabinIncludes carrier weight. Pets over 8kg must fly in cargo (AVIH).
Lufthansa
CabinSoft-sided carrier recommended. Max 118 cm total dimensions.
Air France
CabinStrict weight limit. Pets > 8kg travel in hold.
KLM
CabinPet must be able to stand and turn comfortably.
Delta Airlines
Cabin*Must fit comfortably in carrier. Effective limit usually ~8-9kg.
United Airlines
CabinMust fit comfortably in carrier under seat. Only cats and dogs.
American Airlines
CabinCombined weight of pet and carrier. Main cabin only.
Swiss International
CabinSoft-sided recommended. Similar to Lufthansa policy.
Air Canada
CabinGenerous weight limit. Hard-sided kennels not accepted in cabin after June 2025.
Alaska Airlines
CabinKnown to be very pet-friendly. Higher weight limit (up to 150lbs) if buying extra seat (check specific rules).
JetBlue
CabinJetPaws program available. Carrier counts as carry-on.
WestJet
CabinGood option for slightly heavier small dogs.
British Airways
Cargo OnlyOnly Assistance Dogs allowed in cabin. All pets must fly Cargo.
Emirates
Cargo OnlyPets must fly as checked baggage or cargo. Falcons allowed on some routes.
Singapore Airlines
Cargo OnlyOnly Service Dogs allowed in cabin. Pets travel as checked baggage.
ANA (All Nippon Airways)
Cargo OnlyPets travel in temperature-controlled cargo hold.
Japan Airlines (JAL)
Cargo OnlyPets travel in cargo. Only Service Dogs in cabin.
Virgin Atlantic
Cargo OnlyPets must fly via Virgin Atlantic Cargo. Only Assistance Dogs in cabin.