USDA Dog Kennel Regulations

Owners planning to travel by air with their canine companions must be well informed about rules and regulations. The choice of a kennel should not be taken lightheartedly since the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is responsible for assuring that all pets are treated humanely by the airlines and that shipping regulations are enforced. In order for a kennel to be accepted, it must meet minimum standards based on size, sturdiness, ventilation and sanitation. One important note in keep in mind: There are really no kennels that are pre-approved by the USDA or other organizations even if stated on the label.

  1. Size and Strength

    • In order to meet minimum standards, the kennel must be of the correct size and sufficiently strong and sturdy to withstand shipment. The choice of the size of a kennel is based on the size of the dog. The dog should be able to comfortably stand, sit, breath and rest inside the kennel, according to the USDA'S Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service fact sheet. The kennel should also be easy to open and free of any objects that could potentially harm the dog during travel.

    Ventilation

    • Kennels must allow sufficient air flow for the traveling pet. The presence of rims on the sides of the kennel help prevent the kennel's openings from being blocked from nearby shipment items when in the cargo compartment. Clearances measuring at least 3/4 of an inch are required. The openings, according to APHIS, must make up at least 14 percent of the total wall space of the kennel and at least 1/3 of them must be located in the top half of the kennel in order to provide sufficient ventilation.

    Sanitation

    • In order to grant sanitation, a kennel must have a leakproof floor. The owner can choose to cover the flooring with absorbent lining in order to make cleaning easy in case the dog soils. Pegboard flooring is prohibited, but wire or other ventilated sub-flooring is generally allowed, according to APHIS. These measures are taken to allow a high level of sanitation during travel.

    Other Requirements

    • Kennels must have exterior grips so airport handlers can carry the kennel safely without the risk of getting bitten. The kennel must also be labeled with ''live animals'' signs and directional ''this way up'' arrows must be posted. Instructions for feeding, watering and administering medications over a 24-hour period must be posted on the kennel in case of delays. Food and water dishes must be attached to the kennel in such a way to be accessible without having to open the kennel. In most cases, only one dog is allowed inside each kennel. However, two puppies weighing 20 lbs. each and less than 6 months old may be allowed in one kennel.