If you're pet is traveling soon and flying on an airplane, you probably need to know what you're allowed to pack for them. This isn't your typical packing list as if you're going on vacation with your human family. Airlines have restrictions on what is allowed to fly with pets, for biosecurity and safety reasons. Below we've explained the items that are and are not allowed to travel with pets.
Airline approved travel kennel
Regardless of whether your pet is flying in-cabin, as accompanied baggage, or as cargo, they will still need to be secure in an airline-approved, IATA-compliant travel carrier. In-cabin pets must be in a soft-sided or hard-sided travel carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Pets that are flying as accompanied baggage or cargo must be in a hard plastic, wooden, or metal travel kennel that is large enough for them to stand up, sit down, lie down, and spin around comfortably. It's extremely important that you use the correct size travel carrier for your pet, or the airline may refuse them for travel. We typically recommend using Petmate Sky Kennels.
Bowls
If you are bringing your pet in-cabin, it's a good idea to bring a travel bowl with you that can be filled with water to keep them hydrated. If your pet is traveling as excess baggage or cargo, then you will need two bowls that attach to the inside of the travel kennel door. They should be placed low enough so that your pet can easily reach them and they must be able to be easily refilled from the outside.
Food
You may pack a small amount (1-2 servings) of dry food in a sandwich bag that can be attached to the top of the travel carrier. Unopened canned food can sometimes be sent with pets, limited to 1-2 cans. This food will be used in case of flight delays or if your pet has a transit stop and can be fed a snack.
Please keep in mind that pets should not be fed in-flight and it is not recommended to feed them less than 4 hours prior to flight departure. This is to avoid them having an upset stomach or possibly soiling their travel carrier.
Original paperwork
In most cases, pets need to travel with original paperwork required for the destination. Copies of certain documents may be permitted depending on the destination. The specific list of exact documents will vary by country and airline. In general, pets must travel with:
- Rabies vaccination certificate
- General vaccination certificate
- Health certificate (international or domestic)
- Any required blood test results
- Any required import permits
Items that are NOT allowed to travel with pets
The following items are not permitted to be in or on the travel kennel with your pet. If you try to send these items, the airline may remove them and they can be misplaced or disposed of.
- Luggage
- Toys/bones
- Litter box & litter
- Clothing
- Thick beds (more than 3 inches thick)
- Large comforters
- Apple AirTags or other electronic tracking devices
- Sedatives
- Medication that was not previously approved by the airline
What we recommend you leave behind
- Luggage
- Collar tags
- Expensive collars, leashes, or harnesses (sometimes these items can be misplaced)
- Other personal belongings
NEVER Sedate Your Pet
Pets who are flying should never be sedated or tranquilized. Sedatives can cause issues with a pet's breathing, respiration, heart rate, and balance when up in the air at high altitudes. Additionally, the airline and pet transport company can refuse a pet for travel if they appear to be sedated.
Ensuring your pet's comfort and safety during air travel requires careful planning and adherence to airline regulations. By packing only the necessary items, you can help make the journey as smooth as possible for your furry friend. Remember to avoid packing prohibited items and never sedate your pet before a flight. With these guidelines in mind, you can focus on providing a stress-free travel experience for your pet, allowing both of you to reach your destination safely and happily.
Photo by Oli Zubenko on Unsplash
Starwood Animal Transport has rebranded to Starwood Pet Travel. We are still the same great company with the best team, just now with a slightly different name.