Under Continental Airlines' PetSafe program, the airline does not accept pets as checked luggage. However, you can keep small pets in the cabin with you, and Continental will transport larger pets as cargo. Make sure that you're aware of all the rules and regulations, however, before bringing a pet on a Continental Airlines flight.
Make sure your kennel meets U.S. Department of Agriculture and Continental Airlines requirements. To be acceptable, the kennel must be sturdy and have proper ventilation. In addition, a pet must have enough room to stand with its head up, lie down and turn around. All parts of the body must be inside the kennel for safety. The kennel must have a secure lock that is accessible in an emergency, two food bowls (both accessible from the outside) and absorbent material for litter. (You cannot use straw, hay or wood shavings on international flights.)
Continental Airlines' rules for labeling kennels follow federal regulations. You must mark kennels with "Live Animal" on the top and one side, in 1-inch-high letters, and mark arrows or "This End Up" on at least two sides. Also label the kennel with contact information and destination information in case your pet is misplaced. You can get labels from Continental when you drop off your pet. You must attach certification that you have given your pet food and water within four hours of dropping itoff, and attach any necessary food to the outside of the kennel.
Small pets (cats, dogs, rabbits and birds) can ride with you in the cabin on a Continental Airlines flight. They must be in an approved kennel that can fit under the seat and is no larger than 17 inches long by 12.5 inches wide by 8 inches high. You may only carry one in-cabin pet per passenger, in lieu of a regular carry-on. Unaccompanied minors cannot bring pets on board. In addition, further restrictions may apply depending on your destination, the type of aircraft and the number of other pets on the flight.
If your warm-blooded pet will be in transit for 18 hours or longer, Continental Airlines requires a comfort stop for the pet to rest. This time is calculated from the time you check your pet until you pick it up (up to two hours after you reach your destination). Continental Airlines will make all the arrangements to put up your pet in a kennel, but you must pay the fees.
Certain breeds of dog, including English Bulldogs and Shih Tzus, have hereditary breathing problems and are at risk for heat stroke and breathing issues on airplanes. To keep these breeds safe, Continental Airlines requires you to use a kennel one size larger than normal, with ventilation holes on four sides. In addition, you must let your pet get used to the kennel for several days before the flight, and provide plenty of water (but no food) during the flight.
