Ruth Haines
Travelling with pets can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to ensuring their crate meets airline requirements. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) sets the rules for pet crates, which are generally accepted by airlines worldwide. These regulations cover stocking density, construction, ventilation, animal health and welfare, food and water, and safety. Crates must be hard-case, non-collapsible, with solid tops and bottoms, and have handles for carrying. They must also have adequate ventilation, with a minimum of three sides for domestic flights and four sides for international flights. Food and water bowls should be attached to the inside of the front door, and the crate should be labelled correctly. It is important to research your airline's specific requirements and to call ahead of time to ensure your crate will be accepted.
Airport Crate Characteristics
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Crate Size | Should be large enough for the pet to stand up, turn around comfortably, and have at least 3 inches above the top of the head. |
| Crate Hardware | Metal hardware is preferred by many airlines, with metal nuts and bolts securing the top and bottom of the crate. |
| Ventilation | Minimum of three sides for domestic flights and four sides for international flights. |
| Water and Food Bowls | Attached to the inside of the front door and refillable from outside without opening the door. |
| Food Storage | Food can be attached to the top of the crate in a plastic bag. |
| Labeling | Red and white arrow labels on the right front and left rear corners, with "Live Animals" stickers on the upper sides and back. |
| Leash and Collar | Included in a ziplock bag and taped to the top of the crate. |
| Flooring/Padding | Cardboard or vinyl pad on the bottom, covered with shredded paper or a throw blanket. |
| Health Certificate | Required for interstate air travel, along with proof of a current rabies vaccine. |
| Transportation | Uber Pets or similar services are recommended for transporting large dogs and crates to the airport. |
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What You'll Learn
Crate size and specifications
When it comes to crate size and specifications, several factors come into play to ensure the comfort and safety of your pet during air travel. Firstly, the crate should be appropriately sized for your dog. The length of the dog from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail will determine whether a large or extra-large crate is needed. It is crucial that your pet has sufficient space to stand up, turn around comfortably, and have at least 3 inches (7.6 cm) above its head when standing in a natural position. Additionally, there should be enough room for your dog to lie down in a natural position without curling its front legs.
The crate must be a hard-case, non-collapsible design with a solid top and bottom, and it should not have openings on top or wheels. The top and bottom of the crate should be secured with metal nuts and bolts, as some airlines do not accept plastic fasteners. It is recommended to use metal crate hardware instead of plastic, and cable ties or quick-release zip ties are often required in the corners of the crate. The crate should have handles for carrying, and a protruding rim or extended handles/rims on the sides to meet airline requirements for rim spacing.
Ventilation is another key consideration. The crate should have openings for ventilation on a minimum of three sides for domestic flights and four sides for international flights. These openings should be a maximum of 1 inch (2.5 cm) over the upper two-thirds of the opposite end for dogs. Additionally, food and water dishes must be attached to the inside of the front door and be refillable from outside the crate without opening it. Small funnels attached to the door with cable ties can make refilling water easier for airport handlers. Food can be attached to the top of the crate in a plastic bag.
Some additional specifications to consider include a single metal door to prevent your dog from potentially pulling the door inward and collapsing it. Live animal stickers, which are approved by the USDA and IATA, can be placed on the crate. An extra-safe locking mechanism, such as a vault-style lock with four pins inserting into all four sides of the crate, will provide added security. Finally, while not required, you may consider adding flooring or padding, such as cardboard covered with shredded paper, to provide a cushion and a dry bed for your pet.
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Crate labelling and securing
When preparing your pet's crate for air travel, there are several things to keep in mind regarding labelling and securing. Firstly, it is important to research your airline's specific requirements, as different airlines may have varying policies. Most airlines require that crates have proper ventilation, usually on all four sides, and that food and water bowls are attached to the inside of the front door, refillable from outside without opening the crate door.
For crate labelling, it is standard to place two red and white arrow labels on the right front and left rear corners of the crate. Additionally, place a yellow "Live Animals" label on each upper side, with arrows pointing upward, and another on the upper back. A red and white identification label, along with food and water labels, should be placed on the top of the crate, just above the door. Use additional sticky tape if needed to ensure labels are secure.
For crate securing, it is recommended to use metal crate hardware instead of plastic fasteners, as many airlines now require this. Cable ties or zip ties are often mandated in the corners of the crate, and all hardware must be securely tightened. An extra-safe locking mechanism uses four pins inserted into all four sides of the crate. Pre-drilled zip tie holes are beneficial and quick-release ties are recommended. A single metal door can prevent your pet from pulling the door inwards and collapsing it.
It is also important to ensure that your pet's collar and leash are tied to the top handles of the crate, and that you have the necessary health certificates and documentation when checking in.
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Ventilation
When it comes to the ventilation of your pet's crate, there are several requirements and recommendations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to ensure adequate ventilation for the comfort and safety of your pet during air travel. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) sets specific regulations for ventilation, which are followed by most airlines worldwide.
According to IATA regulations, crates must have ventilation on all four sides. Most airline-approved crates are designed with ventilation holes on each side and the front. If you purchase a crate without ventilation holes on the back, you will need to drill holes to ensure proper airflow. The size and placement of the ventilation openings are also crucial. For domestic flights, the crate should have ventilation on a minimum of three sides, while for international flights, ventilation is required on all four sides. The openings should be a maximum of 1 inch (2.5 cm) for dogs and 0.75 inches for cats, positioned over the upper two-thirds of the opposite end.
In addition to the number and size of ventilation openings, the type of materials used for the crate and its hardware are also important. Many airlines now require metal crate hardware instead of plastic fasteners. It is recommended to use metal nuts and bolts to secure the top and bottom of the crate, rather than plastic ones. Cable ties or quick-release zip ties are often required in the corners of the crate and to secure the kennel doors shut. Metal grates can also be used to provide ventilation while ensuring the safety and security of your pet.
To enhance ventilation and overall comfort, you can include additional items inside the crate. Providing a water dish or bucket is essential to keep your pet hydrated, and freezing the water before the flight can help prevent spills during takeoff and landing. Using a vinyl pad on the bottom of the crate can provide a dry and comfortable surface, and including a throw blanket or familiar bedding can add extra comfort and security for your pet.
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Food and water
Water:
It is crucial to provide adequate hydration for your pet during air travel. The water bowl should be attached to the inside of the front door of the crate and be refillable from the outside without opening the door. Small funnels attached to the door by cable ties can make it easier for airport handlers to refill water bowls. To prevent spills during take-off and landing, fill the bowl with water and freeze it before attaching it to the crate door. This method also helps prevent overfilling your pet's bladder early in the flight. Ensure the water bowl is made of suitable material; some airlines, like United Airlines, do not accept plastic bowls. Instead, opt for aluminium or metal buckets attached with zip ties or clips, especially if your pet chews.
Food:
It is advisable to attach a few servings of your pet's regular food to the top of the crate in a sealed bag, especially if there is a layover or delay. United Airlines, for example, requires a minimum of 16 ounces of food for travel, even on non-stop flights. The Shipper's Declaration, placed on top of the crate, should include feeding instructions and the time your pet was last fed. Some countries do not allow food containing animal products, so it is essential to check the regulations of your destination.
General Tips:
- Ensure the crate is appropriately labelled with LIVE ANIMAL stickers and directional stickers.
- The crate must have adequate ventilation, with a minimum of three sides ventilated for domestic flights and four sides for international flights.
- The crate should be made of sturdy and escape-proof material, such as rigid plastic or wood, depending on the airline's acceptance of wooden crates.
- Acclimate your pet to the crate before travel to reduce stress during the journey.
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Transportation to the airport
When transporting your pet to the airport, there are several things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is crucial to ensure that your pet is comfortable in its crate before the journey. This can be achieved by gradually acclimating them to the crate, feeding them inside it, and providing short breaks throughout the day.
Secondly, you must book a spot for your pet on the plane when purchasing your ticket. Most airlines will require you to provide the combined weight of your pet and the crate, so it is essential to know the crate's weight beforehand. Additionally, you will need a health certificate from your veterinarian for interstate air travel, which includes proof of a current rabies vaccine and the physical address of your destination.
When travelling to the airport, you may consider using a rideshare service like Uber Pets or Uber XL, which can accommodate larger crates. Alternatively, you can opt for a rental vehicle that can be dropped off at the airport, ensuring it is within walking distance to the gates. It is worth noting that rental companies typically do not allow pets, so this option would require additional arrangements for your pet's transport.
Upon arrival at the airport, have your pet secured in their crate, with their collar and leash tied to the top handles. It is recommended to get into the “needs assistance” line and have your health certificate ready for inspection. You will also need to fill out paperwork provided by the front desk staff.
To summarise, transporting your pet to the airport involves advance preparation, booking, and choosing a suitable mode of transportation. By following these steps and staying organised, you can ensure a smooth journey for both you and your furry companion.
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Frequently asked questions
The crate must be a hard case, non-collapsible, with a solid top and bottom, and without wheels. The crate must be secured with all-metal nuts and bolts, and it is recommended that you use metal crate hardware instead of plastic fasteners. The crate must also have ventilation on at least three sides for domestic flights and four sides for international flights.
The crate must be sized so that your pet can stand up, turn around comfortably, and have at least 3 inches above its head when standing in a natural position. The length of your dog from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail will dictate whether you need a large or extra-large crate.
You should include a water bowl and a food bowl that can be attached to the inside of the front door and refilled from outside the crate. You should also include some form of bedding, such as a blanket or towel, that has your pet's familiar smell on it.
You can use a rideshare service such as Uber Pets or Uber XL, or a rental vehicle that can be returned at the airport.
You should get into the needs assistance line and have your health certificate ready for the front desk. They will give you some paperwork to fill out and may inspect your dog crate.
