Up to 2 pets may be checked and they must meet the minimum age and health requirements of the destination. Since capacity is limited, we accept checked pets on a first-come basis. Depending on animal breed and size, they can travel as a carry-on or be transported through American Airlines Cargo. Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet the size, age and destination requirements. Only service dogs traveling to the U.S. from high-risk countries with an approved CDC Dog Import Permit, or that meet CDC U.S. vaccination and microchip requirements may fly on American. Contact Special Assistance to request travel with a cat or dog in cabin from a high-risk country.
For more information about pet reservations, contact your local transportation office. Most airlines require a health certificate for animals, typically issued within 10 days of travel. This is also a good time to ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and that they aren’t battling any illnesses that could be exacerbated by heat or stress. Pet owners also need to determine which carrier has the contract for their travel route and what the expenses will be. Have your pet evaluated by your personal veterinarian to be sure he/she is fit for air travel.
Check in and print your boarding pass 1 to 24 hours prior to your scheduled departure. Department of Agriculture – Animal and Plant Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS)site and look for a colored banner at the top of each country page. Banners will either be green or orange with explanations for how documents are processed . If your veterinary clinic does not carry ISO microchips, you may purchase one from thePet Travel Storeand bring it to your vet for insertion. Check with your local pet store or any online retailer that offers specificallyISO standard and compliant microchips. A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.
Temperature restrictions
You must also receive USDA endorsements for several documents, including both certificates mentioned above. Carriers can transport up to five animals of the same species, on the condition that the total weight of the animals does not exceed 8 kg, and a weight of 10 kg including any food and the carrier itself. We work with specialist pet travel agents around the world to ensure the highest level of care for your pet. Just like a travel agent, they will help you make a booking and prepare your pet for travel. For more details on travelling with trained service dogs see our disability assistance section.
No live animals can be carried on our A321neo LR aircraft as the cargo holds are not ventilated. Some dangerous dog breeds and snub-nosed breeds of cats and dogs may not be accepted for travel. Amtrak now allows some pets on select trains and service animals are allowed on all lines. Some smaller U.S. railroad companies may permit animals on board.
Kennel size must not exceed 18″l x 11″ w x 10.5″ h to ensure it will fit under the seat in front of you. Soft-sided kennels should be constructed of leak-proof/water repellent padded nylon with mesh ventilation on at least two sides. To book pet spaces, contact your local Traffic Management Office/Installation Transportation Office as early as possible.
Pet carriers
Call theappropriate embassyin Washington, DC to confirm the entry requirements for the country you are moving to. Some embassies will provide forms printed in English and in the host language for your veterinarian to complete. Some countries do not permit importation or have long quarantine requirements. You can have your pet shipped through a licensed commercial shipper.You will be charged the cargo rate plus the pet shipper’s fee. Many airlines now require this method unless your pet is small enough to fit in the cabin.
Everything you need to know about transporting an animal
If you are entering the UK, your pet must meet the requirements of the UK Pet Travel Scheme. If they’re part of the family, they can be part of the holiday! With a range of options available, we can carry your beloved pet safely and ensure that its handled with care. We have more than 50 years of experience caring for furry friends, so please email us with any questions or concerns at If your pet is lost during the trip, a photograph will make it much easier for airline employees to search effectively.
See details about joining IPATA and becoming a globally recognized company who promotes humane animal transport. The American Veterinary Medical Association does not advise sedation since effects of tranquilizers on animals at high altitudes are unpredictable. If you plan to sedate your pet, you must have written consent from the pet’s veterinarian. All pets are susceptible to the risk of heat stroke, respiratory problems and the possibility of death during travel. pet immigration about your pets health and their exposure to extreme heat.
To view trip details, change seats, change dates or times for select reservation types, or cancel a current reservation, use your confirmation code. You will find below answers to the most frequently asked questions related toanimal transportby air. For more information, please consult our Traveler’s Pet Corner page. Arrange with your veterinarian for required shots and certificates within the specified time period. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has issued a suspension on the import of commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies. Earn miles with our partners , Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.