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Frequently Asked Questions
Like most parents, pet owners may be understandably anxious about transporting and being separated from their pet – especially if they have never managed it before. Pet Express trained and experienced Pet Relocation Specialists are happy to answer your questions, address any concerns, and work with you to design and implement a customized transport solution that will be safe and comfortable for your pet, and practical for your family during your relocation.
Is it safe for pets to fly?
Pet Express can provide strong and sturdy travel crates that provide protection during loading and unloading, and prevent your pet escaping whereas lightweight crates that some owners source from pet stores may flex during handling, enabling the door to accidentally open.
If you can imagine keeping your pet in a crate in the laundry overnight, this is similar to what your pet will experience while in the pet-compartment within the aircraft.
What about “snub nose” (brachycephalic) breeds?

Dogs with flat or snub noses, including Pugs, Boxers and Bulldogs, and cat breeds including Burmese or Persian are classified as brachycephalic breeds, which may pose a higher risk during transport. These breeds have a compromised respiratory system and cannot breathe as efficiently as non-brachycephalic breeds. As pets regulate their body temperature by panting, snub-nose breeds are more inclined to overheat in warm weather. More information on this condition can be found at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brachycephalic_syndrome
There are more than 30 breeds of dogs and cats that are considered brachycephalic, as outlined in Wikipedia:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cephalic_index#List_of_brachycephalic_dogs
Each airline has its own policy regarding brachycephalic breeds, and may impose restrictions for some or all breeds. Some airlines prohibit the transport of snub-nose breeds, otherwise they may impose tighter regulations such as increased temperature restrictions, or a requirement to transport the pet in a larger crate to enable increased air circulation around your pet.
For more information, refer to the American Veterinary Medical Association website
httpss://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/Short-nosed-Dogs-and-Air-Travel-FAQs.aspx
Pet-Express works with all major airlines and understands the restrictions imposed by each airline. Speak to a Pet Relocation Specialist to discuss travel options and ways to prepare your pet for travel.
What about temperature extremes?
Airlines consider the temperature on the ground at origin, destination, and any transit points along the way. Should temperatures fall outside of approved ranges at origin, destination or transit points, your pet may not be permitted to travel on its scheduled flight. Some locations such as Phoenix, Arizona are commonly embargoed for all pet transport during summer months.
Airlines consider the temperature on the ground at origin, destination, and any transit points along the way. Should temperatures fall outside of approved ranges at origin, destination or transit points, your pet may not be permitted to travel on its scheduled flight. Some locations such as Phoenix, Arizona are commonly embargoed for all pet transport during summer months.
All airlines have different policies, however most will only permit pet travel when temperatures exceed minimums (ranging between 10 deg F to 40 deg F) or are below maximum temperatures of usually around 85 deg F.
With access to many flights, Pet Express can schedule your pet’s travel for the coolest time of day (or night) in hot weather and the warmest time of day in cold weather.
If you plan to travel with your pet on the same flight, please be aware that an unexpected temperature restriction may impact your own travel plans which may result in delays and amendment fees to your own ticket.
Speak to a Pet Travel Consultant for more information.
Should my pet be tranquilized or sedated for the trip?
Many pets travel well without sedation if they have had time to become accustomed to their crates before travel, and if their owners remain relaxed and don’t transfer stress to their pets. While some pet owners may be anxious about being separated from their pet, we urge owners to remain calm when around your pets so as not to unnecessarily transfer stress to your pets.
Should your pet have an extremely anxious temperament, please speak with your Pet Travel Consultant to discuss options which may include mild sedatives administered under veterinary supervision. Never sedate your pet for travel without advising Pet Express.
Will my pet need to change planes?
If a change of plane is necessary, we will choose the route that minimizes travel time and provides the maximum safety and comfort for your pet. If your pet will require a long stopover/connection, we can provide a “comfort stop” where your pet will be cared for, fed, watered and exercized while waiting for its next flight. Pets with medical conditions may require a comfort stop so that medication can be administered.
Can I take my pet on vacation with me?
Will my pet have food and water during the journey?
Food is not provided during the flight because it can be a choking hazard, and large amounts of food may make your pet feel uncomfortable in its crate. (what goes in will eventually want to come out….) However, please prepare two portions of your pet’s food in two separate plastic bags. We will attach these portions to the outside of the crate at pick-up time, and they will be available in the unlikely event that your pet’s trip is delayed.
May I send personal belongings with my pet?
What if my pet needs to urinate during the flight?
