If your pet is too big to fly in the cabin, or is flying without you, it will usually travel as air cargo. That process is very different from checking in at the passenger terminal, and it trips up many first-timers.
Cargo facility vs. passenger terminal
Most airlines handle pets travelling as cargo through their cargo facility, usually a separate building on the airport grounds. Pets are dropped off there, checked in, and loaded onto the plane by cargo staff. At the destination, they're collected from the cargo facility too, not from the baggage carousel.
Some airlines have specific programs for pets. Each airline has its own procedures, so check yours well in advance.
Timing
Drop-off is often required several hours before departure. Build in time for traffic, paperwork and check-in queues. Late arrival can mean your pet misses the flight.
Paperwork you might need
- Airline booking confirmation (airway bill)
- Health certificate, depending on the airline and route
- Rabies vaccination certificate
- Import documents for the destination (for example, a CDC Dog Import Form receipt for dogs entering the U.S.)
- Owner and receiver contact information
- Feeding and watering instructions attached to the crate
Crate requirements
Airlines generally follow the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations for crate construction. Expect requirements like a rigid plastic or wooden crate, metal fasteners, ventilation on several sides, a secure door, and food and water dishes that can be filled from outside. The pet must be able to stand, turn around and lie down naturally.
Temperature and breed restrictions
Airlines may refuse pets in cargo during extreme heat or cold. Many also restrict snub-nosed breeds. See our article on brachycephalic pets and travel.
Before drop-off
- Exercise your dog well before leaving for the airport.
- Give a light meal a few hours before.
- Line the crate with absorbent bedding.
- Freeze water in the dish so it melts slowly.
- Attach a bag with a small amount of food to the top of the crate.
- Label the crate with "Live Animal," arrows showing which way is up, and your contact details.
How ground transport fits in
A ground transporter can collect your pet from home, drive it to the cargo facility, handle the check-in and paperwork, and hand it over to the airline. At the other end, another transporter can collect and deliver to the final address. This keeps your pet's time in the airline's hands as short as possible.
4Paws Movers offers international airport cargo drop-off at airports in Canada and the U.S. See our airport pet transport page, check our airport codes list, or request a quote.
Planning a move with your pet?
4Paws Movers offers dedicated, climate-controlled ground transport across Ontario and cross-border into the U.S., plus airport cargo drop-off. Every fee is published.