Shipping Your Pet Domestically by Air

These guidelines are general AE Pets requirements for the transportation of pets via air.  Due to the dynamic nature of pet relocation, these guidelines can vary depending on breed, destination, origin, and airline.   Note:  Transportation by ground requires little-to-no preparation.

Date of Departure

Many airlines restrict the transportation of pets during summer months, especially when dealing with snub-nose dogs.  Try to plan a pet relocation before July and after September, depending on your geographic location.  Note: Residents in Florida may not be able to book a snub-nose dog on a flight out of southern Florida under any circumstances.  AE Pets can arrange ground transportation to a cooler-climate airport.

Size and Weight

We will need the size and weight of your pet(s).  Most importantly, we will require the height of your pet while in a neutral standing position, measured from the ground to the tip of his or her ears.

Other Vaccinations & Certifications

These vary by airline. AE Pets can take care of all vaccinations and certifications, including all ground transportation to and from the veterinary clinic. We will simply fetch your pet on these days at times convenient to your schedule.  Often we are able to take your pet to the veterinarian and to the airport both in the same day.

Crate

AE Pets can provide airline-approved crates that follow IATA standards.  We purchase travel crates from Critter Crates.  Every crate they offer is airline-approved, while many other pet store websites offer those that may get rejected by the airline on day of departure.  See CritterTravelCrates.com. Note:  It is advisable to introduce the travel crate to your pet at least one week before travel.  This allows your pet to become more acclimated with his or her surroundings prior to flight.  AE Pets can bring you your crate several days prior to export.   Below are steps to take if your pet is allowed to acclimate him or herself to the crate.

• Place the crate in a room most frequented by family members, preferably near the pet’s food and water dish.
• Temporarily remove the crate’s swinging door.  Throw a treat or a familiar toy in the far end of the crate.  Praise the pet as he or she enters and exits the crate for the toy or treat. Do this daily.
• After several days re-attach the door.  A few days later, shut the door behind your pet, but remain nearby.  Encourage your pet to sleep or rest in the crate, with the crate door open or closed.  Try to have a family member stay near your pet while they ‘hang out’ in their new temporary home.
• As your pet becomes more comfortable with the crate, leave him or her there for longer intervals up to the date of departure.

Preparation of Your Pet & Crate for Flight

• Do not sedate your pet UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.
• Include a blanket or absorbent pad, preferably something that smells like home.  Note:  Do not include anything of value.  You may not see it again.
• Toys are typically not allowed in the crate with the pet while he or she flies.
• Prepare a baggie of dry dog food.  Tape this food to the top of the crate.
• Provide all paperwork relating to your pet’s health and vaccination history to the driver.  Photocopies of these documents are acceptable.
• You may or may not want to fly on the same flight as your pet.  That is your choice and has no affect on the process.
• It is required that the driver and your pet(s) arrive at airport cargo two hours before any domestic flights.  If originating within one of the five-boroughs of New York, you need to have your pet prep’d and ready at least three hours prior to flight departure.

AE Pets will provide guidance and answer any questions if you are ever unclear about any part of the process. We will talk you through everything you need to know so you are confident that everything will go smoothly.