Pets traveling without their owners

Do I need a Pet Transporter?

Perhaps you are moving and you need to get settled before your pet joins you in your new home or, for whatever reason, you and your pet are in separate locations and you need your pet to join you. Will you need the services of a pet transporter or not?

If you have someone who will take your pet to the departure airport and check them in at air cargo, and you have someone to pick the pet up at the arrival airport then you are all set.

If not, you will need to use the resources of a pet transportation company (pet transporter) such as PuppyTravel.com or PetMovers.com. These companies can make all of the arrangements, or just the portion that you cannot handle on your own. Of course, there is a fee for their services.

Assuming that you have drop off and pick up handled, in almost all instances, you will need to move your pet using an airline, and your pet will be sent as air cargo. Virtually all airlines accept pets except for Southwest Airlines and the smaller commuter airlines that do not have facilities for them. CLICK HERE to check rules and regulations for traveling with a pet on the airline you are considering.

Today's modern airliners have special compartments for live animals where the temperature and pressure is the same as in the cabin. Most airlines even have special programs to take care of your pet and some even offer frequent flyer miles. Hundreds of pets travel alone every day and arrive safely at their destination.

Steps to follow: Have your veterinarian prepare the APHIS form 7001 stating that your pet is healthy enough to travel and is free of parasites.

Acquire an airline-approved kennel large enough for your pet to stand up in and turn around. If possible purchase the kennel well in advance of the trip to allow your pet a chance to get used to the kennel before the travel date. This kennel must be IATA certified. If you do not have an IATA certified kennel, CLICK HERE.

Contact the Air Cargo department (not Reservations) of the airline you have chosen, and make a reservation for your pet's travel. You will be charged based upon the combined weight of the pet and the kennel.

Be aware of the summer embargo that prohibits the airlines from loading a pet into the cargo area if the runway temperature is above 85 degrees. If you are traveling in summertime, you should find a flight that leaves at night. Some airlines require an Acclimation Certificate. If you need one, CLICK HERE.

Do not panic if circumstances are such that you will not be able to travel with your dog or cat. Just be sensible at handling their travel arrangements as you would with any member of your family.