Planning to bring your beloved pet on a flight? Pet air travel often involves shipping your pet as cargo. The process requires a few crucial steps, beginning with obtaining a pet health certificate. Following that, you'll need to secure an appropriate airline-approved pet carrier. It's essential to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your scheduled departure to complete the pet cargo procedures.
Generally, airlines categorize small animals as restricted items, meaning they can't travel in the cabin with passengers. However, service animals such as guide dogs and hearing dogs are exceptions and may travel in the cabin under special airline authorization. For all other pets, transportation is handled either as checked baggage or as cargo. Most airlines limit the number of animals allowed on each flight, so you must inform the airline when making your reservation. This step is crucial, and you’ll need the airline’s agreement before your pet can travel.
How to Arrange Pet Cargo Transportation
1. Get a Health Certificate: Begin by obtaining a health certificate from a certified vet. Some pet stores can assist with this, often for a reasonable fee.
2. Purchase an Airline-Approved Carrier: Pet stores usually sell airline-approved carriers of varying sizes and prices. These carriers should contain a water dispenser and some absorbent bedding, like puppy pads. Verify the airline's specific size requirements for pet carriers before you make your purchase. It is advisable to include a hanging water bottle inside the carrier. Your pet will likely lick the water tube for hydration. Create an ID tag for your pet with information in both English and your native language.
3. Pre-Travel Preparations: Before booking, confirm that your selected flight has a cargo hold suitable for live animals. Most flights do. It's best to reserve space for your pet's cargo at least three days in advance, contacting the airline's cargo department (contact information is available from airport information desks or in the yellow pages). If your pet is prone to car sickness or airsickness, consult your vet and pack any necessary medications. Place a small amount of food and familiar toys in the carrier to reduce anxiety. Even if your pet is not typically prone to travel sickness, it's recommended that you withhold food at least three hours before the flight. Also, allow your pet to relieve itself before boarding to reduce discomfort during the flight. Train your pet to use the water dispenser if they are not used to it.
4. Check-in at Airport Cargo: Arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to your flight to complete the pet cargo check-in. Ask airport personnel for the precise location to check-in your pet. Alternatively, you could use a specialized animal shipping service, which might offer slightly reduced rates, but require more time for arrangement.
5. Costs: The transport fee is usually 1.5% of the full ticket price per kilogram. For example, if your full fare ticket is $1000 and your pet weighs 10 kg, the total fee will be $1000 * 1.5% * 10 = $150.You might also like:Pet Breeding
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