A Jack Russell terrier in a harness stands in front of a rolling suitcase next to the windows at an airport.
Traveling with our furry companions has become increasingly popular, with many pet owners opting to bring their beloved dogs along on their journeys. As more airports recognize the importance of accommodating these four-legged travelers, pet-friendly amenities have grown, making air travel a smoother experience for pets and their human companions. One such amenity that has gained prominence in recent years is the establishment of airport dog potty facilities across North America.
Checking Ahead: Not All Airports Are Created Equal
Before you embark on your journey, it's essential to do some research. Not all airports have dog potty facilities, so it's crucial to check ahead of time to ensure a smooth travel experience. Some airports have designated pet relief areas exclusively for service animals, so understand your specific airport's requirements.
As you embark on your journey with your four-legged friend, keep these tips in mind for a seamless travel experience:
- Visit Airport Websites: Before you fly, visit the website of your departure airport to gather information about their pet relief facilities. It will help you plan and locate the facilities with ease.
- Pack Thoughtfully: Pack essentials such as pet waste bags, disinfectant wipes, and a portable water bowl. Being prepared ensures you're equipped to handle any situation that arises.
- Respect Other Travelers: Remember that not everyone is a pet lover. Be considerate of fellow travelers by cleaning up after your pet and ensuring they remain well-behaved during the journey.
A yellow Labrador puppy lays down on the airport floor beside a white plastic water bowl and a brown suitcase.
Airport Relief Centers and Top Spots for Dog Potty Breaks
From the sunny skies of Phoenix, Arizona, to the bustling terminals of New York City's JFK Airport, and from the heart of Atlanta to the scenic views of San Francisco, this guide will help you navigate the often overlooked but essential aspect of pet travel: ensuring your furry companion's comfort and well-being.
Atlanta Airport: Hartsfield-Jackson International
- Outdoor fenced dog park outside Domestic Terminal South
- Smaller relief area outside of arrivals at the International Terminal
- Post-security indoor pet relief areas on every concourse
Denver Airport
- Outdoor pre-security fenced pet area on Level 2 beside Garage West
- Post-security doggy bathrooms at the center of the A, B, and C Gate concourses
DFW Airport
Pre- and post-security animal bathroom areas in various terminals
Dulles Airport
Three outside the main terminal pre-security, two inside the midfield concourses post-security
Fort Lauderdale Airport
Four outdoor pre-security pet relief areas indoor relief area in Terminal 1 for assistance animals only
Houston Airport: George Bush Intercontinental
- Terminal B: Near Gate B1, across from The Fruteria
- Terminal C: Across from Gate C2
- Terminal D: Across from Gate D6
- Terminal E: Across from Gate E12
JFK Airport
- Terminals 1 and 2: Outdoor pre-security pet relief areas at arrivals
- Terminal 2: Post-security relief area next to the Delta Sky Club
- Terminal 4: Fancy indoor pet bathroom between Gates 30 and 32
- Terminal 5: Pre-security pet bathroom beside baggage carousel six and a large open-air post-security patio area opposite Gate 28
- Terminal 7: Pre-security pet area outside arrivals, post-security area between Gates 9 and 10
- Terminal 9: Large pre-security relief area outside departures
LaGuardia Airport
Pet relief areas at each terminal, pre- and post-security
Miami Airport
Seven designated rooms for pets, both outdoors and indoors post-security
Newark Airport
Pet relief area outside arrivals at each terminal, pre-security (see map here)
Orlando Airport
Relief areas for assistance animals are only on the A and B sides.
Philadelphia Airport
Inside the Terminals
- Terminal A-West, near Gate A-16
- Terminal A-East, before the A-B connector
- Terminal B, near the B side of the A-B walkway
- Terminal C, near the C side of the C-D walkway
- Terminal D, next to the United Club
- Terminal D, next to D-3
- Terminal D, between D-4 and D-5
- Terminal E, near Gate E-1 across from Good 2 Go
- Terminal F, just beyond the security checkpoint and the Police stand
On the Departing Flights Road
- Between Terminals A-West and A-East
- Between Terminal B/C ticketing and the Airport Communications Center
- After Terminal E
- After Terminal F
On the Arrivals side
- Adjacent to Terminal A-East bag claim along the Arriving Flights road
- Adjacent to Terminal B bag claim along the Commercial Vehicle Roadway
- Adjacent to Terminal E bag claim along the Commercial Vehicle Roadway
Phoenix, Arizona: Sky Harbor Airport
- The Pet Patch, located slightly east of Terminal 2
- The Paw Pad, outside the western end of Terminal 3 in the West Plaza
- The Bone Yard, west of Terminal 4 on Level 1, near baggage claim
- East Economy Park & Bark, near the East Economy parking garages
- Park ‘n Play, northwestern corner of the 44th Street PHX Sky Train Station
- Post-security relief areas in Terminals 2, 3, and 4
San Diego Airport
Three relief areas, one outside and two post-security
San Francisco Airport (SFO)
Outdoor relief areas at curbside level, pre-security
A dark gray dog with a leash on sits on the pavement outside of an airport.
Potty Training Your Pup: Setting the Foundation for Success
Traveling with an untrained dog can be stressful for you and your pet. Investing time in potty training your furry companion is vital to ensure a stress-free journey. Here are some essential tips to get you started:
- Establish a Routine: Just like humans, dogs thrive on routines. Set a regular schedule for feeding, watering, and bathroom breaks. Consistency is vital to successful potty training.
- Choose the Right Spot: Select a designated bathroom area for your dog, whether at home or on the road. It helps your dog associate a specific location with bathroom activities.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with praise, treats, or affection when they successfully use the designated potty area. Positive reinforcement encourages good behavior.
- Pack Essentials: When traveling, pack pet waste bags and cleanup supplies. Responsible pet ownership includes cleaning up after your furry friend to ensure a clean environment for all travelers.
As pet-friendly travel grows, airport dog potty areas are crucial for smooth journeys. Many North American airports accommodate pets, but amenities vary. Research and preparation, like checking airport sites and carrying essentials, ensure pet comfort. Respect for other travelers is vital, including cleaning up and well-behaved pets.
Successful pet travel relies on potty training. Routine, proper spots, and positive reinforcement create a stress-free, harmonious journey.
For more information on potty training your puppy, check out these links:
Potty Training Your Puppy When You Move
Safe and Sound: How to Puppy Proof Your Apartment Like a Pro