Blog

When pet travel goes wrong, the airline is often blamed. But by the time you arrive at the airport, the most important decisions have already been made.Airlines enforce rules. They don't decide if your pet is fit to travel. "Approved" Doesn't Mean "Safe" Your pet can meet all requirements, vaccines, paperwork, airline policies and still not be prep...

For many pet owners, the idea of their pet traveling in an aircraft cargo hold can be unsettling. The thought of separation during a flight often raises questions and concerns. Is it safe?How are animals transported?What happens to pets during the flight? These are reasonable questions. Pets are family members, and their safety matters. The truth i...

Many rabbit owners eventually ask: Can rabbits travel on airplanes? While millions of pets travel by air each year, most travel guidance focuses on dogs and cats. Rabbits have unique sensitivities, airline acceptance policies, and container requirements that owners should understand before planning a trip. Safe rabbit air travel depends on medical ...

If you love your pet, it's natural to want them with you when you travel. Most pet owners plan carefully, follow advice they find online, and truly believe they're doing the right thing. What many don't realize is this: travel, especially air travel, is stressful for pets, even when it appears to go smoothly. Stress in pets isn't always obvious. It...

Planning to fly with a pet can feel overwhelming. Airline rules about carriers, weight limits, and breeds may seem restrictive, especially when social media shows pets traveling "just fine" despite bending the rules. But airline pet policies exist for one primary reason: to protect animal welfare. How Policy Decisions Affect Your Pet Air travel is ...

Most pet owners who consider labeling their dog as a service animal are not acting out of bad intent. They want to stay together, reduce stress, or make travel easier. Airline rules can feel confusing, and social media often makes service dog travel look simple.But claiming a pet as a service dog when they are not fully trained has real consequence...

Pet Air Travel Is a Medical and Regulatory Event Traveling with a pet by air is not just a logistical decision. It is a medical and regulatory event for the animal. When your pet flies, especially internationally, their health, safety, and welfare must be evaluated before travel begins. The proposed Healthy Dog Importation Act (H.R. 3349 / S. 1725)...

The Mistake: Flying a pet that is not medically fit — because the paperwork was approved. This is the most dangerous error in pet air travel. And it happens every single week. A signed health certificate does not mean a pet is fit to fly. Why This Mistake Is So Risky Air travel places unique stress on animals, including: Confinement for extended pe...

Traveling with pets can be emotional and stressful. For many families, pets are not just companions — they're family — and the pressure to "get it right" can feel overwhelming. It's completely natural to turn to social media for reassurance, advice, or examples from people who seem to have done it successfully. But this is where many well-intention...

Many crates marketed as "airline approved" appear acceptable, but most do NOT meet the IATA LAR CR#1 standards required for safe air transport. Double-door designs, weak hardware, and incorrect ventilation are the most common reasons pets get denied at check-in. Where "Airline Approved" Crates Fail Double doors that compromise structural integrityP...

Traveling with your pet is getting a lot more common, but not necessarily easier, especially when it comes to maintaining your pet's healthy diet. Proper planning can make the difference between a stressful trip and a smooth journey for both you and your furry companion. Whether you and your pet are traveling by train, plane, or automobile, there a...

Pet birds-parrots, parakeets, cockatiels, lovebirds, and similar species-must travel in a shipping container that complies with IATA Live Animal Regulations CR#13. Owners often assume a standard plastic pet carrier is acceptable. It isn't. A rigid plastic pet crate is only allowed if it meets CR#1 and is modified to CR#13 standards, which require: ...

Many crates sold as "airline approved" look acceptable on the shelf, but most do not meet the IATA Live Animal Regulations (LAR) CR#1 standard required for air transport. This misunderstanding leads to one of the most common problems at check-in: pets being denied because the crate fails inspection. "Airline approved" is a marketing phrase — not a ...

Pet birds—parrots, parakeets, cockatiels, lovebirds, conures—cannot travel in a standard cat/dog carrier or the cage they use at home. Airline transport for birds is governed by IATA LAR Container Requirement #13 (CR#13), and if the container doesn't meet this standard, your bird can be refused at check-in. It's that simple.   WhyCR#13 Matters...

Many pet owners choose crates based on weight because that's how they're marketed in stores ("for pets up to 20 lbs."). But for air travel, weight-based sizing is inaccurate and unsafe. IATA LAR CR#1 requires sizing based solely on the pet's dimensions — height, length, and width — not pounds. Here are the four reasons why: 1. Weight Does Not Refle...

Important Notice for Pet Parents Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, agencies that regulate live animal transport (CDC- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USDA's APHIS- Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USFWS- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) may have limited staff and reduced operations. As a result, permit approvals,...

Whether you're heading to a dog show, relocating, or just bringing your furry friend along on a well-earned vacation, air travel with pets requires careful planning, especially when flying them in cargo. Not all airlines treat pet travel the same, and their policies can vary significantly. Since our last update in May, Delta Airlines has added rest...

If you've traveled through an airport recently, you've likely seen a dog in a vest weaving through the crowd, curled up under a gate seat, or boarding an aircraft beside its handler. And chances are, you've also heard the horror stories—dogs barking mid-flight, peeing in the aisle, lunging at other passengers. Here's the truth: those are not traine...

Flying with your pet isn't as simple as buying a ticket, crate, and obtaining a health certificate. Every safe journey requires preparation, compliance with regulations, and putting your pet's welfare first. Let me be your HITL (Human in The Loop)for Pet Travel. As a veterinarian with airline industry experience, I bridge the gap between pet parent...

Have you noticed crates or carriers being advertised as "TSA-approved"? Let me clear the air: this is nothing more than a marketing gimmick. There is no such thing as TSA approval for pet carriers, and falling for this label could leave you with a carrier that doesn't meet airline or international transport standards—putting your pet (and your trip...

Being a Pet Mom or Pet Dad means that you are constantly researching to figure out if an environment is safe for your pet or not.Summertime pet travel has even more information that you have to know so that you can avoid dangerous situations.It is hot everywhere and there are so many factors to consider for your pet while it is hot outside.Here are...

Yes, pet reptiles like iguanas, snakes, and turtles can fly—but only as air cargo, not in-cabin, and under strict regulations. Many airlines don't accept reptiles at all, so always confirm in advance. In addition to airline approval, you may need: A veterinary health certificateCITES permits (for protected species and international travel)USDA/APHI...

Before we dive into the why, it is important to know the difference between the types of pet identification and what they can do. There are several types of pet identification methods, each with its own advantages. These methods help reunite lost pets with their owners and ensure proper identification. Here are the most common types: 1. Collar Tags...

Air travel with large breed dogs requires advanced planning, as most cannot fly in-cabin and must travel via air cargo. This method involves specific safety and compliance requirements, including the use of an IATA-compliant crate. Some breeds-especially brachycephalic dogs like Boxers-are embargoed by airlines, and certain countries restrict or ba...

A travel crate is not just a box; it's your pet's safety zone and shelter during air travel. Choosing the right travel crate is critical to protecting your pet's health, welfare, and ensures compliance with airline and transportation regulations. Many pet owners assume all travel crates are the same simply because they look alike. Most crates are m...

By Kerry Cooke, Founder of Tail Chasers LLC and Inventor of Spleash Have you ever taken your dog on a walk, car ride or on any trip and found yourself fumbling when it was time to give your dog some water?It has happened to the best of us! Then let us introduce you to Spleash- an award winning dog bottle that attaches to your leash and has its own ...

By Lashonda Geffard Let's be honest, traveling with our pets used to be...a trip in every sense of the word. From last-minute vet paperwork to dry airport treats that even your dog gives side-eye to, it's been a stressful ride. But here's the good news: a new era of pet travel is here, and it looks really bright, innovative, and Minority-owned. Ove...

By Blake Woody, CEO & Founder of Certify Canine Air travel with service dogs has evolved in recent years, bringing clearer rules, tighter regulations, and, thankfully, more support for legitimate service dog teams. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or prepping for your first flight with your dog, understanding what's required by the Department...

Hybrid cats are special cats that come from mixing domestic cats with wildcats. Some examples of hybrid breeds are Bengals, Savannahs, Caracats, Cheetohs, Kinkalows, Chausies, and Lykoi. These cats often look different and act differently than regular domestic cats because it may take many generations of breeding for them to become fully domesticat...

Guest Article by Dr. Boaz Man, DVM, Medical Director at Boca Midtowne Animal Hospital Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a well-established condition that unfortunately has been historically overlooked. Abnormalities that contribute to this disease include an elongated soft palate, stenotic nares, a hypoplastic trachea, aberrant n...

By: Megan Sprinkle, DVM, DACVIM (Nutrition) Did you know that 61% of US pet owners prioritize their pet's happiness and well-being over their own? This 2024 Mintel consumer research finding highlights the importance we place on our pets' health. As pet parents, one of the most crucial daily decisions we make for our pets' health and happiness is th...

Guest Writer: Dr. Karyn Collier, Medical Director at Hillside Veterinary Clinic, Dallas, TX When preparing to travel with your pets, the best piece of advice I can give is to start your preparations as early as possible. Starting early, especially for international travel, provides the best opportunity for a smooth and stress-free trip. Let's look ...

Can you believe a decade has gone by since the grass-root campaign, Clear the Shelters, launched in August 2004 with the goal to clear all the shelters that signed up to be a part of this national effort?Galvanized by NBCUniversal and all of their affiliate stations and Partners, this program took on a life of its own as Pet Parents across the coun...

According to the CDC's New Dog Importation Regulations-effective on 8/1/2024, all dogs (including service dogs) must meet a set of criteria to be allowed to enter/return the US. All dogs must be healthy, at least 6 months of age, and microchipped. Pet owners must apply for a CDC Import Form and obtain the forms' receipt prior to traveling. Addition...

Great question, the vaccinations needed depend upon the entry requirements destination state.So, when traveling between states and territories in the US, you must research the dog/cat entry requirements of the destination, for the requirements can vary.Please never assume that the requirements are the same in each US state. A prime example is Hawai...

Depending upon the airline and their pet travel policies, the Shar Pei breed might be on their restricted breed list for transport via cargo.You might wonder, why?Well, the Shar Pei is a unique breed, famous for wrinkly skin and their unique appearance.Their facial features externally and internally are slightly compressed; unfortunately, their fea...

When you work in a zoo, sometimes you never know what is going to happen at work! This is the story of the pigeon named 'Perdido' found in the zoo parking lot. I was about to leave work one day, when the Director came to my office and said, "There's a pigeon in the employee parking lot and it isn't flying. I think it is sick!" I went out to look at...

by Steven L May, CVJ, VRCE We want to thank our friend, Steven L May, CVJ, VRCE for writing this incredible article about service dogs.We appreciate him and his work in our industry. Having a Disability Service Working Canine (DSWC), distinct from Emotional Service Dogs (ESDs), can profoundly impact one's emotional, psychological, and mental well-b...

By Sonia Ben Hamida, PhD, Head of IATA Special Cargo, Operations, Safety and Security – Cargo  Ensuring the safety and comfort of your pet during air travel requires careful planning and adherence to guidelines. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) provides essential guidance to make this process smoother for dogs and cats travel...

There is a lot to do preparing for a trip with your pet and we want to provide you with some tips to ensure their safety!      Tip #1: Know Your Pet’s Health If you are making plans to travel with your cat, dog or any other pet that can fit in a crate/carrier, it is important to make sure that you get their health checked ...

April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, and this is a great time for Pet Parents to create a kit, purchase a kit or restock the one they have.These kits will have several opportunities to be of use such as an accident around the house, an accident on vacation, an accident going on a walk.The more active your pet is, their odds increase wit...

When transporting reptiles via cargo, you must determine the following: What are the reptile transportation regulations for the destination state or country?What airlines allow the transport of reptiles via cargo?What are the shipping container requirements for your reptile? Reptiles are fairly easy to maintain as pets, thus pet owners often obtain...

A great example of a dog with a long body is the Basset Hound and as you can imagine, you have to pay attention to make sure you have the correct size crate for them. Basset Hounds are NOT on the list of restricted breeds (i.e., brachycephalic breeds) for transport via cargo and are not listed by DOT as being prone to death during transport via car...

So, you want your pet bird(s) to travel in cargo? Well, believe it or not, the process and procedures are like preparing a pet dog or cat for transport in cargo. The pet owner must ensure that their pet bird meets the entry requirements of the destination state/country AND comply with the live animal policies of the airline. If traveling in cargo d...

Do you have a Chinese Crested, Sphinx, Mexican Hairless Dog, American Hairless Terrier or any of the other hairless breeds?Let me share tips to prepare them for air travel via cargo. No matter what breed of dog or cat you may have, making efforts to ensure your pet is prepared and safe during air travel are paramount. Each breed will have commonali...

Anxiety is a reaction to stressful, or unfamiliar situations which occurs in people and pets (dogs/cats). We all experience anxiety from time to time, in response to anything new or unfamiliar. During air travel, dogs and cats are exposed to an unfamiliar environment with new people, unusual sounds and smells, and varying temperatures and lighting....

Certain dog and cat breeds are prohibited for transport via cargo by most airlines. For it's been determined by reviewing the Department of Transportation (DOT) Animal Incident Reports that certain breeds of dogs are more prone to death during transport in cargo. Back in 2010, the DOT published a press release due to the increasing numbers of death...

What are the minimal age requirements for domestic air travel for dogs and cats? Great question! Before answering, I think we need a regulatory authority lesson. There are federal regulations, state regulations, and airline policies regarding the transport of dogs and cats. The federal regulations set minimal standards for domestic transport of dog...

Effective August 1, 2023, the CDC is extending the temporary suspension of the importation of dogs from countries classified by the CDC as high risk for dog rabies. This temporary suspension is effective until July 31, 2024, and applies to all dogs, including puppies and service animals, that have been in a high-risk country within the six months b...

There are several natural disaster seasons that are scary and dangerous for man and beasts. But as long as we make plans and prepare for them, we all can make it to safety. Whether you live in an area that is prone to floods, fire, hurricanes or tornados, 1) create an Emergency Kit, 2) Make a plan of Evacuation and 3) Be Informed as to what is avai...

Accessible Travel Service  Service Animals  Service animals are animals that are trained to perform a specific task for the benefit of a person with a disability, and are permitted in all areas where passengers are allowed. Amtrak personnel may ask what task(s) the service animal performs. Carry-on pet guidelines are for animals for which...

There are several bus companies that travel all over the United States.But there is only one Greyhound Bus! Years ago, families depended on a Greyhound busto take them coast to coast on vacation andthat same dependability is still true today. Greyhound buses are a great form of travel, but if you are a family looking to travel with your pet, Greyho...

You heard it first on our Facebook Live with Dr Nelva Bryant on April 14, 2023 when we had Juan DeVarez, Delta Air Lines Program Manager in Business Development for Live Animals, announce the partnership created between Delta Air Lines Cargo and Prince William's United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce. "Delta Cargo believes that global airlines pla...

Sailing with a service animal. Please notify us before your voyage of your request to sail with a trained service animal such as a seeing eye dog or hearing assistance dog. Emotional support animals are not recognized by the United States Department of Justice as service animals and therefore are not permitted to sail on Cunard vessels. All request...

The overall rules for pets (both cats and dogs) are dogs and cats up to 20 pounds (combined weight of pet and carrier) are welcome on trips up to seven hours on most routes (some restrictions apply) for a small fee. While pets are not permitted on Thruway Service Connections or in checked baggage, service animals are allowed on all trains. But if y...

Photo courtesy of Cunard Cruise Line

I heard this rumor on our When Pets Fly Instagram feed that there is a cruise line that allows cats and dogs on their ships. So, I had to investigate this matter and… the rumor is true! Pet Parents, let me introduce you to Cunard Cruise Line. They are the only cruise line in the world that allows pets and will allow cats and dogs of any size to joi...

Pioneers offering a first-class travel experience for dogs and cats, with the utmost care, from start to finish. JAMAICA, NEW YORK (January 10, 2023) – Delivering high-quality pre- and post-travel animal care and veterinary services, The ARK at JFK (The ARK) has joined forces with Zoundz Music For Pets™ (Zoundz) to advance initiatives focused on im...

We want our pets to travel with us, whether traveling within the US or traveling internationally. Keeping them safe during air travel requires advanced preparation to ensure they get to the destination and return home safely. The following preparation tips are mandatory for air travel. Purchase or obtain a travel crate/carrier that complies with th...

If there was ever a perfect real-life example of "Necessity is the Mother of Invention" it would be about The Original SHERPA Bag and its creator Gayle Martz.Imagine, it was back in the 70's when Ms. Martz was an Airline Hostess (what they called it back then but is known as a Flight Attendant today) with TWA (Trans World Airlines, an airline that ...

When Pets Fly often receives questions regarding traveling with cats. There are multiple steps, however in this article we will focus on getting your cat acclimated to confinement in its travel crate or soft-sided carrier. Cats are very sensitive. Any changes to the normal home environment can cause stress.The simple act of putting out their travel...

Don't fly without these tips from Dr. Nelva On this episode of B's and Queens with Caitlin Palmer, we meet travel expert, Dr. Nelva Brant, who's a veterinary consultant for Delta Airlines. Dr. Nelva tells us how to travel smart with our pets. You definitely want to listen to this show before you buy your furry friend a ticket.  Podcast Link- h...

It's August and it's time for Clear the Shelters!This national campaign gives all the warm feels as you not only get to bring home your Fur Child, but you assist in a campaign of getting every animal in the rescue adopted.Yes, doing your part has double the rewards. NBC and Telemundo owned, and affiliated stations will partner with local animal she...

With so many things on the list of things to do prior to planning a flight with your pet, make sure that you check out the airline's policy on pets prior to booking.These rules may have changed since the world has opened back up and everyone is flying.So, make sure to check before booking so that your pet doesn't get left behind. These articles wil...

Did you know if a dog or cat can't stand-up and turn-around, their travel crate is too small. During shipping, the animals are to be confined in containers that must allow for normal habits and freedom of movement. The animal must be able to sit and stand up in a natural position with its head erect, have enough space to turn about normally while s...

Unlike people, dogs and cats breathe with open mouth when overheated, because they can't sweat like humans. Snub-nosed dogs or cats have condensed facial structures which impacts their ability to breathe normally, and during air travel these features impairs their ability to cool themselves off and makes them vulnerable to heat stroke. The Embargoe...

Pet Parents and Pet Professionals from all over the world reach out to Dr Bryant of When Pets Fly on a daily basis to get tips, information and guidance on what are the best things to do when traveling with a pet. Known as "The Pet Travel Expert", she enjoys sharing her knowledge because she knows it is being used to help animals travel safe and ha...

If you are traveling with a dog and wish to enter the US, please be aware that you must comply with US importation regulatory requirements. Importation of personal pets is regulated by CDC, while the importation of dogs for commercial sale/adoption is regulated by USDA. For the importation of personal pets, CDC has updated their dog importation reg...

Vet Candy a fresh resource for Veterinarians reached out to Dr Nelva Bryant of When Pets Fly in September 2020 to interview her about the unique approach to service animals in this industry. Recognized as "The Pet Travel Expert", Dr Bryant is often contacted to consult, provide tips and guidance a to best practices with animals flying. You can read...

In 2020 when the regulations came out that Emotional Support Animals are not getting the same treatment as Service Dogs, it caused a lot of resentment and stink in the pet community. But our friends at Fear Free Happy Homes turned to Dr Nelva Bryant of When Pets Fly to clarify a few things with their readers in an interview. Here is the conversatio...

This regulation from the Department of Transportation (DOT) came down in December 2020 and continues too today. But it is still something that many don't know, and we want to be sure you understand the rules of what you can and cannot do. This new rule allows the airlines to distinguish between a service dog and emotional support animal as well as ...

Be sure your pet is wearing an up-to-date and visible ID tag and take a current photo.Create a comfortable and safe space for your pet to go during fireworkUse play or food toys to keep the pet busy throughout the day and night.Keep your curious cats and canines away from fireworks, sparklers, and glow sticks.Remind your guests that your pet should...

As a fellow Pet Parent, I know that we all do our best to raise happy, healthy Pet Kids. The industry has changed through the years to keep up with the high demand of doing better and providing better quality products and services. But what I am most excited about is the shift in perception about pets; from being seen as property to now being cared...

We like to think that all veterinarians are angels sent to earth to take care of our pets, but like with anything, some of them just happen to be among our favorites and that is why we want to introduce you to our friend, author, coach, Weiner Dad, Social Media Influencer and esteem colleague, Dr Adam Christman of the DVM360 (A Dr Adam Christman Br...

Did you miss the Travel Tips Dr Bryant shared on 5/10/22 with American Pet Professional's Nancy Hassel? Catch the episode right here. 

Here is another interview that Dr Bryant di with The Spruce Pets. This is a snippet into Dr Bryant to let us know about her expertise and being the authority on pet travel. Dr. Nelva J. Bryant, DVM, MPH Specialties: International and Domestic Travel of Companion Animals, Infectious and Zoonotic Diseases, Veterinary Public Health, Animal Welfare, Ve...

Dr Bryant does her best to get around and share her knowledge about animal travel. As a widely respected authority on this subject and employed by Delta Air Lines to help them navigate transporting animals, it is her mission to help Pet Parents, Companies and even other Veterinarians understand the importance of considering the animals safety and h...

It is summertime and the world is opening back up and open to the thought of travel. Many of us even bring our pet companions along for the ride. This is a great article from our friends at The Northern Kentucky Tribune that speaks to just that notion with some great tips. Over half of owners consider their pets when making vacation plans; tips for...

Today I had a great conversation with a Veterinarian and more importantly a Pet Parent to Nya, her 5 year old American Bulldog (let's not forget about her college age human son) and who is on the cusp of changing lives all over the country when it comes to Pet Travel. Dr. Nelva Bryant lives in Georgia and loves veterinary medicine because there are...

Spring is here and depending on where you are the warmer weather is out and it is felling good! And as many Pet Parents do, it is that time of year to start taking our dogs on road trips with us. But what all goes into a road trip with our dogs? Yes, it takes planning and preparation just like if you have children. So here is a great article from a...

You've seen the pet crates. They're used to house train dogs, or for quick trips to the veterinary hospital or clinic for cats. Some are made for quick assembly or to be able to get your pet inside without too much of a fight. Are all crates the same? No! Crates used for air travel as checked baggage or via cargo must be made of a rigid material (p...

Your pet has basic needs, just like you. We all require food, water, and shelter. When traveling in the US or internationally, we have the expectation that we, as people, will have our needs met at the destination. There will be hotel accommodations, plenty of restaurants to choose, and you can have your beverage of choice. However, when traveling ...

Not a good thought to consider, but you don't want to wait until something happens and then search for a local veterinarian. Just in case, it's better to be prepared prior to leaving for vacation. Locally in the US, you could search for veterinarians via sites, such as: AAHA-accredited hospital locatorFind Local VeterinariansFind a Veterinarian Nea...

I know, I know…. you want your pet with you. However, just because the airline allows dogs and cats to travel as pets in-cabin, not all meet the criteria. Is your pet the correct size to fit in a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) compliant soft-sided crate? Does the crate allow space for your pet to stand and turnabout comfortably? Some pets th...