Numerous pet shipping companies offer the option of flying your animal to its destination. Depending on the company you choose, you may have the option of having your animal picked up at your home, driven to the airport, flown under the supervision of the company and then transported by car from the airport to its destination. Other variations of this service include you dropping off your animal at the airport, picking it up at the airport or both. Whichever option you choose, ensure that the USDA licenses the company flying your pet. Your pet must be up to date on vaccinations and cleared for travel by a veterinarian.
For closer moves or for pets for which flying is not safe, ground pet transportation is an option. Typically, you provide a comfortable, adequately sized kennel for your pet and the company picks the animal up. They then transport the animal to the destination by van or truck. Some companies offer the option of having your pet shipped without other animals in the vehicle. Be sure that the company you choose has a USDA license and uses climate-controlled vehicles.
Many airlines allow ticketed passengers to check their pets like luggage for a fee. Depending on the animal's size, you may be able to bring it in the cabin with you. Some airlines allow service animals in the cabin, regardless of their size. If the animal cannot go in the cabin, it will travel in the cargo area of the plane. This means your pet will be on the tarmac with the luggage, so a direct flight is best for cold or hot weather. Be sure to make reservations for your pet well in advance, so you know what requirements the airline has for traveling pets.
If you are traveling by car and you have enough space in your vehicle for your pet to travel with an appropriate kennel, transporting your pet with you is an option. Plan your trip with enough stops for your animal to eat, drink and relieve itself every few hours. Feeding and watering your animal in the vehicle is uncomfortable for the animal and can make a mess. Not planning enough stops for pet relief can lead to accidents in the car.
