FAQs

Is it safe for my pet to fly?

• Air travel is as safe for pets as it is for people.
• The temperature on the ground is the main concern, and the key to safety is to time your pet’s arrival for the coolest time of day in hot weather, and the warmest time of day in cold weather.
• Airlines do not ship pets in extreme heat and cold.

Can my pet fly with me in the passenger cabin?

• The answer is usually NO.
• In some instances passengers are allowed to travel with one small pet in the passenger cabin, provided the pet is small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel that is placed under the seat.
• Regulations vary widely, depending on the pet’s weight, the airline and the country of destination. Animals are never allowed out of the kennel during flight.

Where will my pet be held during the flight?

• Your pet will travel on a cargo deck of the aircraft that is both temperature and pressure controlled. It has the same ventilating system as the passenger cabin.

Is my pet too old to fly?

• If a veterinary exam determines your pet is healthy, he should have no trouble getting through the flight or quarantine period.
• Terminal 4 Pets can help you consider the factors and make an informed decision about your pet’s ability to travel.

Is my pet too young to fly?

• Regulations vary, depending on the pet’s age and the country of destination.
• Typically, young pets can relocate internationally from the age of 4 months, after receiving the rabies vaccination and waiting 30 days.

Should my pet be sedated for the trip?

• No! An animal's natural ability to balance and maintain equilibrium is altered under sedation. When the kennel is moved, a sedated animal may not be able to brace and prevent injury. Increased altitude can also create respiratory and cardiovascular problems for dogs and cats that are sedated or tranquilized.
• A tested and safe method for calming a pet is to transport the animal in a familiar kennel or crate, without the use of sedating drugs.
• Once placed into the cargo, which is darkened after the door is shut, most animals will relax naturally and many will sleep.

What type of kennel will my pet travel in?

• The kennel must be large enough for a pet to stand up, turn around completely, and lie down in a normal position. 
• Only a kennel that meets the international requirements is allowed on the plane.
• Terminal 4 Pets can help you chose the appropriate kennel for your pet's travel. 
• Terminal 4 Pets can also teach you how to acclimate your pet to the kennel so that he will be comfortable and calm throughout the trip.

.Will my pet have food and water during the trip?

• During flights pets should not be fed, but may drink.
• A spillproof water bottle can be attached to the flight kennel that allows your pet to drink whenever he wants.

What if my pet needs to urinate during the flight?

• Pet diapers are usually used during flights. The travel kennels can also be fitted with absorbent liners.

What if my pet needs to change planes during the trip?

• We transport pets on non-stop flights whenever possible.
• If a changeover is necessary, we choose a route that minimizes travel time and provides the maximum safety and comfort for your pet.

Will my pet be quarantined upon arrival at destination?

• Some countries have mandatory quarantine, which may last as long as six months.
• Some countries have no mandatory quarantine.
• However, if your pet arrives without the required vaccinations or certifications, he may be subject to quarantine.

How do I find quarantine requirements for a specific country?

• There is no single source for quarantine and country requirements.
• We maintain contact with the relevant organizations and agencies to make sure we are in compliance with current regulations whenever we transport a pet.

What vaccinations will my pet need?

• It depends on the country of destination. Some vaccinations are required. Other vaccinations are recommended.
• Your pet must have certain vaccinations at least 30 days before relocation, but not more than a year before the flight.

What can I do to prepare my pet for the trip?

• As soon as you decide to travel or relocate with your pet, you should begin making arrangements. For some destinations, it takes six months to complete the preparations.
• The most important thing you can do for your pet is to help him get acclimated to the travel kennel.

How much does it cost to fly my pet?

• Many factors affect the cost of flying your pet, such as size and weight, destination and airline.
• Terminal 4 Pets will help you determine the total cost.