Can you ship dogs? This must have been the question lingering in your mind ever since you decided to go on a trip. To your assurance, the answer is yes! In fact, dogs have been reported to make up 58% of pets traveling worldwide.
And the best part is that, you have the option to ship your dog via air or ground. While it’s possible, there is a list of things to prepare before shipping a dog. You need to consider the right mode of transportation depending on a number of factors:
- prepare the necessary documents,
- choose the right shipping service,
- and prepare your dog for traveling
For your convenience, we have compiled everything in this guide. By the end, you will be all set to ship the dog to your chosen destination.
Shipping Dogs Via Ground or Air
Now that you have the answer, to your question: can you ship dogs? And the answer is yes, you can! Your next question may be: how are puppies shipped? The same is available for puppies too. You have two options: ground and air.
When choosing between the two, there’s a clear difference in transport speed. Air shipping is the fastest mode of transport for obvious reasons, but it is not the bestchoice in many cases. Here’s a quick overview of ground transport vs. air transport to help you make the best decision for your pet.
Considerations Table
| Factors | Ground Transport | Air Transport |
| Travel Time | Generally longer, it takes a few days to a week or more. | Faster, direct flights minimize travel time. |
| Pet Size | Best for all dog sizes. | Cabin travel is limited to small dogs only. Larger dogs usually must go in the cargo hold. |
| Booking Process | Easier to book | Requires advance booking, so you may need to start preparations six months in advance. |
| Convenience | Door-to-door service available | Most airlines offer door-to-door service but usually require drop-off and pick-up at airports. |
| Safety | Secure in crates, most services provide experienced handlers | Airline staff monitor pets in cargo; these spaces are climate-controlled and pressurized. |
| Breeds | Allows all dog breeds | Brachycephalic or snub-nosed breeds are not allowed in the cargo area. |
So, if you prefer direct supervision, or want to ship a dog over short to medium distances, and maybe your dog has travel anxiety, then ground transport is the way to go. However, for international travel over long distances, air transport is recommended as the travel time is shorten.
Documents Required to Ship A Dog
When planning to ship a dog, you need to have all your pet’s paperwork in order. So, can you ship dogs? Yes, you can, but you will need the important documents to comply with regulations to ensure a safe journey for your dog.
Here’s what you will need:
1. Health Certificate
Prepare an original medical certificate for your dog that is provided by a licensed and certified veterinarian. It must not be older than 10 days at the time of transport. Curious to know more about the health certificates that are needed when you travel from Europe to the US? Well, read The Dog Vacation’s detailed guide here.
2. Certificate of Vaccination
Many service providers demand a signed certificate of vaccination for rabies and other common diseases. So, make sure to keep your pet’s vaccination records up to date.
3. Import/Export Permit
You will need an import permit for international dog transport. This is important to ensure the dog complies with the health requirements of the destination country.
4. Microchip Information
Most airlines require that your dog is microchipped for identification purposes. The microchip number should be included in the health certificate.
5. Other Documents
If you are someone moving outside the US, you will need to have more paperwork done for your pet’s relocation. This may include:
- Custom forms
- Travel documents
- USDA endorsement of relevant documents
- Flight reservations for your pet
- Personalized identification
- Emergency contact information
Note that it may take you up to six months to complete all of these documents. So, you need to start the preparations well before your traveling dates.
Choosing the Right Pet Shipping Service
Whether you have booked a cruise or a ferry trip, there are specific requirements to ensure a safe and smooth sailing experience for everyone. Here are the details of the preparations you need to make before traveling.
1. Vaccination and Documentation
Your dog must have a valid health certificate for a vaccine against rabies and tapeworm. Dog-friendly cruises for long routes (Queen Mary 2) also prefer the dog to be microchipped for identification purposes. All of these documents should be ready before 1-10 days of departure. For service dogs, you may need to bring an official certificate or proof that validates their status.
2. Pre-Approval
Inform your selected cruise line in advance about bringing an animal on board. Cunard starts the official paperwork five months prior to sailing. This helps the cruise line make necessary arrangements regarding your pet dogs’ food, accommodation, and sanitation.
3. Pet Passports
A valid EU pet passport is a must if you are planning to travel across Europe. It is an official document that certifies the microchip, vaccination, and health information required by different countries. This means your dog is healthy and fit for traveling in Europe.
Choosing the Right Pet Shipping Service
When it comes to the safest option for shipping a dog, there is nothing better than air travel. However, air transport can be logistically challenging for your dog in many ways. There are also many restrictions depending on the breed and size of your dog. For instance,
- Many airlines allow small dogs to travel in the cabin as they can fit under the seat.
- Larger dogs are usually prohibited in the cabin, particularly for international flights.
- Many companies provide air nannies to accompany your pet to its destination.
Along with these requirements, you should consider whether or not your desired service has certifications from recognized organizations, like NAPPS and IBPSA, and travel insurance specifically for pet transport.
Once you check all this, you need to consider a few other factors before deciding to set in with a company. Here’s what you should see:
1. Reputation and Reviews
You should thoroughly research a shipping service and read their reviews on Google, Yelp, etc. Make sure to go with the ones that are members of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA). Learn about their customer support, as it is what differentiates between mediocre and good shipping services.
2. Quotes and Services
Shipping companies offer different services, including door-to-door and airport-to-airport. These vary in cost and convenience. You can expect the cost to be anywhere between $1000 to $6000. Moreover, quotes will significantly differ depending on the pet’s size, distance, and required services, like pet protection plans and veterinary services. Airlines generally charge an in-cabin pet fee of $100 to $200 each way.
3. Questions to Consider
Don’t forget to inquire with the company about how they manage the health and safety of the dog during the journey, and what their policies are for delays or emergencies. Ask as many questions as you can until you are satisfied.
The number #1 thing you can do to ensure a safe and seamless experience for your dog is to do all the research upfront.
Now that you know the answer to the question, “Can you ship dogs?” It’s time to prepare your dog for safe travel. Follow the checklist below, and you’ll be good to go.
1. Get Your Dog Used to a Travel Carrier
When flying with your dog, you will need a secure dog carrier with a leash or maybe a muzzle. Since your dog will stay inside a crate for a very long time, it’s important to get it accustomed to being inside. You can start slowly at home and gradually increase the duration.
2. Start Socializing the Dog
Long-distance travel can be stressful for your furry friend, especially if he or she is shy and timid. You can help them prepare for the shipping process by developing his or her socialization skills to ensure they are comfortable when in unknown situations and with strangers.
3. Avoid Sedatives
Avoid using sedatives to reduce your dog’s anxiety during travel. If your dog is sedated during the flight, it may suffer from respiratory distress. Instead, you can try spraying the crate with lavender oil to help your dog calm down. Please always talk to your vet first before trying anything new!
4. Dry Food and Medication
Provide a packet of dry food or any important medicine your dog needs. The medicines should be clearly labeled with details of administration and dosage. In general, liquids are not allowed through security checkpoints, but the Transportation Security Administration makes liquid medications an exception.
While traveling can be stressful for you and your dog, it’s in your hands to take all the right steps to calm your dog.
Arrival and Post-Transport Care
Here’s what you should do after the arrival of your dog to help it calm down.
1. Picking Up
Set a reminder for your dog’s time of arrival. Make sure to bring the identification card and other necessary documents to present to the transport service or airline.
2. Initial Check Up
Upon arrival, check your dog for any signs of injury, stress, or unusual behavior. Allow the dog to relieve itself and offer fresh water immediately.
3. Setting In
Once you are home with your furry companion, create a quiet and comfortable space for your dog where it can rest and recover from the trip. Provide it with familiar items like toys and blankets.
4. Emotional Support
After the trip, ensure you provide extra attention and affection to the dog for at least a couple of days. This will make it feel secure, calm, and loved. Emotional support helps the dog adjust to the surroundings.
5. Gradual Return to Routine
Reintroduce your dog to everyday activities and routines, like play sessions, walks, feeding times, etc. You can also resume moderate exercise and regular diet but start with smaller portions if they seem stressed.
Conclusion
Shipping your dog safely, whether by ground or air, requires thoughtful preparation and thorough research on shipping services. The deciding factors to consider in choosing the best route are your dog’s breed, size, and desired destination. No matter what shipping method you choose, prioritize your dog’s comfort and safety, as it is essential to ensure a stress-free move.
FAQs: Dog-Friendly Cruises
How much did it cost to ship a dog?
The major cost depends on the destination where the pet has to be transported. Most airlines cost between $125 and $200 each way, but there can be additional expenses. For the cargo hold, you can expect the cost to be over $1000.
Can you ship a dog by itself?
Yes, you can. Hundreds of dogs travel alone every day, and most airlines have special programs that take care of your dog when on the road. Many airlines also allow dogs to fly alone in the cargo area. So, yes, you can ship a dog by itself.
Can you ship dogs through USPS?
The United States Postal Service (USPS) does not mail pets or warm-blooded animals. The shipment of poultry, reptiles, and bees have very specific packaging requirements.
Do UPS or FedEx ship dogs?
UPS or FedEx do not ship dogs, as they do not have climate-controlled trucks necessary to ensure pet safety during transport.
Can you ship dogs safely?
The safest mode of transportation for your dog is air travel. However, it requires proper planning and thorough research on the airplane’s dog transport policies.
Can I book a seat for my dog on a plane?
Booking a seat for your dog on a plane is generally not allowed. However, for an additional fee, you can keep small size dogs under the seats in front of you. Some airlines like Alaska Airlines, Etihad Airways, or JetBlue, do allow you to buy a seat for your dog in the cabin when traveling