With advance notice, Continental allows domesticated dogs, cats, rabbits and birds on most domestic flights, as long as they fit in an approved kennel that fits completely under the seat in front of you. This must remain in that location throughout the flight, counts as an allowed carry-on and requires a service charge each way. Only one pet per passenger is allowed. The pet must be at least eight weeks old.
Animals traveling as cargo require a kennel that you can buy at pet shops or at all Continental airport locations. The container must be ventilated and sturdy, and allow the animal to stand with an erect head, turn around and lie down. No part of the creature's body can protrude beyond the kennel. The airline doesn't encourage wheels on the kennel unless they can lock. While the kennel's door closing mechanism must be secure, it should not be locked, in case officials need to get the pet out during an emergency. The airline can transport giant crates up to 48 inches long by 32 inches wide by 35 inches high.
Each kennel requires the words "Live Animal" on top and at least one side of the kennel in one-inch high letters. Orientation labels must exist on two sides, for example, arrows or "This End Up." Contact information for the owner should be on the kennel, as well as certification stating that the pet received food and water within four hours before it was dropped off at Continental. Any necessary food must be attached to the outside of the kennel.
Continental has a dedicated, toll-free, 24-hour Live Animal Desk to keep animals safe when they are traveling as cargo. They confirm bookings before departure, monitor weather conditions at all locations, track and trace pets from origin to destination and ensure personal handling of animals in climate-controlled vehicles if temperatures go above 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Trained service animals for people with physical disabilities are allowed in the cabin. Psychiatric support animals are also allowed with specific documentation. In either case, the pet must sit on the floor in front of the passenger and cannot extend into the aisle. Exit row seating is not allowed. Continental needs at least 48 hours of advance notice for pets traveling in the cabin, and must receive and validate any documentation before departure.
