Dogs and Cats

The Containers used to transport dogs and cats must be:

• Large enough for the animal to sit in a natural position, turn around, and lie down
• Equipped with a securely closing door that operates without any special tools
• Constructed of wood, metal or any material of sufficient strength to withstand normal transportation
• Free from protrusions or any other potentially harmful surface inside
• Well ventilated with openings on at least three sides
• Easy in lifting. Therefore must have handholds
• Leak proof. A solid bottom is a must.
• Roll-free. If the kennel has wheels, the wheels must be removed, retracted, or in some other way be made inoperable in order to prevent rolling
• Constructed to prevent escape of the animal during normal handling
• Padded with suitable absorbent material to ensure cleanliness from litter.
• Constructed to have separate containers for food and water, or one container with separate compartments so that the food and water will not mix together
• Marked with "Live Animal" in letters at least one inch high on the top and one or more sides of the kennel

• One dog or cat, 6 months of age or older
• One puppy or kitten, 8 weeks to 6 months of age, weighing more than 20 pounds each
• Two puppies or kittens, 8 weeks to 6 months of age that are of comparable size, weighing 20 pounds or less each
• Weaned puppies and kittens younger than 8 weeks of age may not be shipped

Most airways will only accept two containers bonded together as one to transport birds.

The container requirements as stated in the IATA Live Animal Regulations book are:

• The finished container may not exceed the size and weight limits for PDQ
• The containers must be fastened together in such a way as to prevent shifting during transport
• All ventilation requirements must be met
• The finished product must fit through the aircraft cargo door without turning or tilting