It’s summer, and Fido and Fluffy are packed and
ready to ship out. While most airlines are willing to transport
this rising class of four-legged flyers, pet owners would do well
to familiarize themselves with the strict polices and procedures
that govern pets as cargo on major carriers.
No babies. Airlines generally mandate that
puppies and kittens must be at least eight weeks old to fly.
Hot dogs. Short-nosed breeds, such as boxers,
French bulldogs and Pekinese, are susceptible to respiratory
problems in extreme heat. Continental Airlines recommends using a
kennel vented on all four sides and providing water, but no food.
American Airlines will not allow these breeds to be shipped if the
outside temperature is 75 degrees Fahrenheit or hotter. Delta Air
Lines won’t ship any pets between May 15 and Sept. 15 due to the
summer heat.
A breed apart. Continental will not carry an
American pit bull terrier more than six months old or weighing more
than 20 pounds.
Euro trip. As of July 3, 2004, cats and dogs
entering the European Union are required to have a tattoo or
implanted microchip that matches the identification number on their
vaccination cards. Pets cannot be shipped into or out of Spain.
Key credentials. The United States Department
of Agriculture (
www.usda.gov) requires a health certificate for
animals shipped as cargo. It must be signed by a licensed
veterinarian and issued no more than 10 days prior to the departure
date.