The questions owners ask us most often before flying a pet internationally from the United States — cabin versus cargo, health certificates, crates, layovers and paperwork. If yours is not here, email us or call +1 424-420-1210.
Some airlines allow small pets in the cabin that can easily fit under your seat — typically less than 20 pounds in weight and 9 inches in height from floor to the top of the head. Check with the airline for exact policies and book with them directly in advance. Larger pets usually travel in the cargo hold and My Pet Air Travel can help you with that.
Yes, it is safe to fly pets internationally. In the U.S., 2 million animals flew on commercial air carriers in 2017 (DOT report) with a very low incident rate of approximately 0.0048% (24 incidents total). Cargo holds are insulated, temperature-controlled, and equipped with ventilation systems like passenger compartments. Major pet-friendly airlines prioritize pet well-being, ensuring safe boarding and disembarking procedures.
How live animals are carried in cargo, explained by an airline captain
Requirements vary by country. Generally, you'll need health certificates, vaccination records, and import permits. Most countries require that your pet has a 15-digit ISO microchip implanted. For cats and dogs, rabies vaccine is required to be given concurrently or after microchipping and is in the system for minimum 21 days before travel. Consult with a professional pet shipper for your specific case.
USDA is the government agency that issues health certificates for pet travel outside the country. It is a 2-step process. In step 1, a USDA accredited vet examines your pet and reviews vaccination records, typically 10 days before travel. USDA accredited vets then submit the health certificate to USDA for further stamping/endorsement. Ask your vet if they are USDA accredited and offer an international travel health certificate through the VEHCS system.
These crates should be appropriately sized, comfortable, and secure. They must allow pets to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. The crate needs to be ventilated on 4 sides with a solid top and leakproof floor. The crate needs to be sturdy (hard plastic or wood or metal), with metal nuts and bolts and a metal gate. The door should have a reliable locking system, and the crate itself must be non-collapsible.
It is best to take your pet to a local pet store to pick the right sized crate, as cargo charges depend on crate size. Look for IATA compliant or airline recommended crates. The crates come in 7 standard sizes and can be bought online. If you have a large breed dog like a Great Dane or a Greyhound, you may need a custom wooden crate, and your pet shipper can help you get one made or suggest some alternatives.
Gradually introduce your pet to the crate. Place familiar bedding and toys inside. Positive reinforcement helps create a positive association.
We do our best to find direct flights, but sometimes it is not possible. Then we look for pet friendly airlines that have facilities and staff to care for pets during the stopover. Pets are watered, fed, and walked in airline animal lounges during their stopover.
Inform the airline or pet shipper in advance. Provide clear instructions and necessary medications to ensure your pet's well-being throughout the journey.
There are three compelling reasons to choose an expert pet shipper: Regulations and Security, where authorized pet shippers handle TSA security rules; Compliance and Expertise, as professional pet shippers navigate complex regulations and country-specific health requirements; and a Smooth Process, where pet shipping services manage logistics, paperwork, and coordination for a hassle-free experience.
Tell us the route and we will come back with a no-obligation quote covering paperwork, crate, airline booking and ground transport.
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