Austin Animal Clinic

Air Travel with Pets

Many people want to bring their animal with them when they travel but feel they can’t because of the airplane. What they don’t realize is that pets can and do travel aboard commercial aircraft safely. Not all airlines accept pets for travel, however, so it is important to check your airline’s transportation policy.

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS), a part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), makes and enforces all of the regulations surrounding the transportation of live animals. The regulations set by the APHIS apply to both customers and their pets.

Some of the airlines currently crossing the skies allow small dogs or cats to fly in the cabin of the plane if they can fit in a carry-on kennel or approved carrier that can fit beneath a seat. Other than a dog or cat, it is important to check with the airline before your trip to ensure that your pet will be allowed in the cabin of the plane. Many airlines have very strict rules concerning the pets allowed on board. These include no offensive odor, no disruption of other travelers, and adherence to all of the FAA’s rules.

Another option for transporting your pet is through “accompanied baggage.” In this option, the pet rides in the cargo portion of the plane with the other checked baggage. The dog or cat must fly on the same flight as its owner. The last option is as plain live animal cargo shipment. This option does not require the animal to be on the same flight as its owner.

For more information on travelling with your pets, contact your Austin vet today.