Rules Regarding Dogs on Airlines

Reservations

• Call the airline directly to reserve the flight for both you and your dog. Small dogs can often be taken on the plane with you in a crate, while larger dogs fly in cargo. Pets cannot fly with unaccompanied minors.

Pre-Flight

• Travelers must document that their dog has received food and water within four hours of the flight, including feeding date and time. You must also attach to the kennel instructions for feeding, watering and administering medication to the dog for 24 hours. Securely attach food and water dishes inside the carrier, such that airline employees can access them without opening the kennel.

  Travelers with pets may check in up to four hours before a flight. Check in at the ticket counter only, not at the curb or a self-service kiosk.

Health Certificates

• Airlines may not transport animals that are violent, ill or physically distressed. All pets crossing state borders, except guide dogs, must have a rabies shot and a vet-signed health certificate issued within 30 days of departure. Breeders, dealers, research facilities and travelers with pets flying cargo must show a certificate issued within 10 days of travel.

Sedation

• Whether your dog flies in cabin or cargo, sedation is not generally advised, as it can have adverse health effects, especially for snub-nosed dogs. However, if your vet determines tranquilizers are a medical necessary, mark the name of the drug, dosage and how it was administered on the dog's carrier.

Crates

• According to USDA guidelines, no part of an animal may protrude from the carrier. Thus, wire kennels are not permitted. Soft-sided carriers are acceptable in the airplane cabin only. Regulations require that kennels be roomy enough to allow the animal to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. Carriers must have a solid, leak-proof floor covered with an absorbent lining. Wire or other ventilated subfloors are OK; pegboard flooring is not. Kennels must be ventilated with openings in no less than 14 percent of the wall space. At least one-third of these openings should be located in the top half of the carrier, which must have rims to prevent blocked openings.

  Carriers built after Oct. 1, 2000, must have a welded or cast-metal door strong enough to prevent the dog from bending or distorting it. The door hinge and pins should engage the kennel by at least 5/8 inch beyond the horizontal extrusions above and below the door opening where the pins are fitted.

  Kennels should have grips or handles so airline employees don't have to put their fingers inside. Leashes or muzzles are not allowed, either inside or attached outside the kennel during the flight.

  Mark "Live Animal" on the top and side of the kennel, with arrows indicating correct position. Also indicate the dog's name and attach tags with your home address and phone number, plus contact information for someone at your destination.

  Each kennel may house one adult dog. Two puppies aged eight weeks to six months, who weigh no more than 20 pounds each and are fully weaned, can fly together.

Weather

• When traveling to or from a destination either below 45 degrees Fahrenheit or above 85 degrees (75 degrees for snub-nosed dogs), you must present a signed letter from your vet stating your dog is acclimated to extreme weather. If the temperature dips below 20 degrees or soars above 95 degrees, your dog will probably be denied cargo travel, even with a letter. Some airlines do not permit snub-nosed canines in cargo areas during summer. Whenever possible, book nonstop or direct flights at more temperate times of day and avoid weekend and holiday travel.