Instructions
Air
Contact your airline for requirements and restrictions for transporting dogs by plane. American Airlines, for example, has restrictions prohibiting the "snub-nose" breeds such as pugs, Boston terriers, and boxers, which might have trouble breathing at high altitudes or in fluctuating temperatures. And there are a limited number of spaces on a plane for animals.
Check the calendar. For airlines that ship pets in the cargo area, traveling in high heat can be extremely dangerous for your dog. This is why Delta Airlines has a standing embargo on pets traveling as checked baggage from May 15 to September 15. Even if your airline allows pets as cargo during the hot summer months, it's not in your pet's best interest.
Book your pet's flight as far in advance as possible to ensure that he can travel within the time frame you need.
Visit the vet. According to the American Kennel Club, or AKC, "Certification of health must be provided no more than 10 days before travel. Rabies and vaccination certificates are also required."
Walk your pet before traveling to the airport and before checking him into the flight's cargo. To avoid accidents and keep your dog comfortable, limit food and water intake before the flight.
Arrange for quick pickup at the destination so your dog spends as little time as possible in the cargo holding area.
Pet Transportation Company
Ask your veterinarian, local dog trainer, area pet store or friends with pets if they can recommend a pet transportation company.
Carefully check the provider's references. Ask previous customers about their level of satisfaction, any concerns they have and how their pet was treated.
Request a detailed itinerary of your dog's travel, and look for frequency of food and exercise breaks, as well as "bathroom breaks" for your dog. If your dog is traveling overnight, get information about whether he will sleep in a hotel room with the caregiver, in another climate-controlled area or in a transport van.
Provide the transporter with detailed information about your own travel plans, including a cell phone number where you can be reached throughout the trip. If your dog is traveling to a new home, make sure the transporter has the new owner's details.
Arrange for you or someone else to meet your dog at his destination.
Before You Travel
Purchase a strong, properly fitted collar and leash for your dog. Attach identification such as an engraved tag or embroidery that lists your dog's name, your name and a phone number where you can be reached.
Consider permanent identification such as a tattoo or microchip in addition to a tag. According to the AKC, such measures "can increase the likelihood of reuniting you with your dog if it gets lost far from home."
Photograph your dog from multiple angles in the days before his trip. In case he is routed incorrectly during travel or gets out of his carrier during transit, you need recent photos you can use to identify him, according to the AKC.
Pack extra food. Regardless of the shipping method, your dog will need to eat at some point. Plan for delays, and include at least two or three extra meals beyond what you think he'll need for the trip.
How Can I Ship My Dog From State to State?
Whether you're moving, vacationing or sending your dog to a new forever home, sometimes Fido's travels will take him farther than the vet or the dog park. If you can't drive your dog to his destination yourself, there are several options for your best friend to travel in comfort and style, including air travel and hiring a pet transport service. Your budget, the size and breed of your dog, and your dog's ultimate destination play an important role in which shipping method you choose.