2025.01.8

The Complete Guide to Air Transportation of Pets: From How to Choose to Prepare

This is a complete guide to safely transporting your precious pets. From how to choose an airline to specific procedures, this guide provides an expert's perspective so that even first-timers can prepare with confidence. We provide the latest information, taking into account recent changes in air transportation.

POINT of this article✓ How to choose the right carry-on and cargo compartment transport
✓ Differences in response by different airlines and selection criteria
✓ Preparation Checklist for Safe Transport
✓ Precautions and measures to prevent problems

Table of Contents

Pet Transport Selection Flowchart

The flowchart below will help you identify the best transportation method for you:

Basic Knowledge of Pet Transportation

Difference between carry-on and cargo compartment transportation

Comparison items	(of luggage, etc.) able to be taken into the cabin of the aircraft	Cargo hold transport
Eligible Pets	Small dogs and cats (8 kg or less)	Medium and large dogs, small dogs and cats over 8 kg
Advantages	Always available to see how things are going Little environmental change Stress Reduction Temperature control is assured	Large pets can be accommodated. Dedicated temperature control More space Freedom of movement
constraint	Size and weight restrictions apply Limited reservation slots Need to be aware of surroundings Restricted movement within the cage	Cannot be confirmed directly Effect of temperature change Relatively high fees Mounting space limitation
Fee Guideline	10,000 to 30,000 yen	30,000-100,000 yen

Important points to consider when choosing a transportation method

Selection Criteria for Pet Transport Methods

evaluation criteria	detail item	considerations
Pet Characteristics	Age and health status	Elderly pets: Consider the impact of environmental changes Puppies and kittens: low stress tolerance If you have a pre-existing medical condition: Consult with your veterinarian.
	Personality and Behavioral Characteristics	Shyness: cargo compartment transportation is recommended Separation anxiety: consider carry-on Lively character: sufficient space available
	Physique and breed	Short-horned: Respiratory considerations required Large dogs: Ensure comfort in the cargo compartment Small dogs and cats: Consideration for carry-on baggage
Flight Characteristics	Flight Time	Within 3 hours: Both methods can be considered More than 3 hours: adequate preparation and measures Long-haul flights: Considerations for connecting flights
Flight Characteristics	seasonal factor	Summer: countermeasures against temperature rise Winter: need for thermal protection Check seasonal restrictions

2. how to choose an airline

Comparison of pet transportation services of major airlines

We evaluated each airline's service quality from three perspectives: temperature control, safety, and support system:

airline company	Services available	Distinctive Response	Restrictions
ANA (All Nippon Airways)	Cargo hold transport Domestic flight support Support for international flights	Fully equipped with temperature control system Professional staff on site 24-hour monitoring	Shorthorn summer restrictions Restrictions on some models
JAL (Japan Airlines)	Cargo hold transport Domestic flight support Support for international flights	Dedicated heating and cooling facilities Cooperation system with veterinarians Ground Staff Training Program	Temperature limit (above 32 degrees Celsius) Restrictions on some routes Restrictions on large dogs apply.
Delta Air Lines	(of luggage, etc.) able to be taken into the cabin of the aircraft Cargo hold transport Support for international flights	Dedicated Pet Tracking Air Conditioning Management System Multilingual staff	Restrictions on short-horse breeds Seasonal restrictions connection limitation
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines	(of luggage, etc.) able to be taken into the cabin of the aircraft Cargo hold transport Exclusive pet lounge	Specialized Care Team Assignment Intra-European connections supported Equipped with facilities exclusively for pets	Restrictions on certain breeds Restrictions based on place of arrival
Air Canada	(of luggage, etc.) able to be taken into the cabin of the aircraft Cargo hold transport Long-distance delivery support	Equipped with a pressurized cargo room Temperature Control System Periodic condition checks	Restrictions on short-horse breeds Winter Restrictions Partial route restrictions
Lufthansa Airlines	(of luggage, etc.) able to be taken into the cabin of the aircraft Cargo hold transport Intra-European Forwarding Service	Dedicated animal facilities Resident veterinarian Air-conditioned transport vehicles	Variety restrictions age limit Reservation restrictions during busy periods
United Airlines	(of luggage, etc.) able to be taken into the cabin of the aircraft Cargo hold transport PetSafe® Program	24-hour monitoring system Weather condition monitoring Specialized staffing	Restrictions on short-horse breeds Seasonal restrictions Restrictions on some models

Important Points for Airline Selection

Basic checks when selecting an airline

checklist	Confirmation details	priority (e.g. traffic)
Transportation Performance and Reputation	Past accident response history	most important Confirmation of accident rates Post-accident response status
	Check user reviews	important Testimonials from actual users Service Satisfaction
	Evaluations from Veterinarians	most important Expert Safety Assessment Medical support system
Degree of safety measures taken	Temperature Control System	most important Automatic temperature control function Alarm system for abnormal conditions
	Monitoring System	important 24-hour surveillance system Periodic condition checks
	Emergency Response Protocol	most important Emergency Response Procedures Cooperation system with veterinarians

3. how to choose the transportation method

Selecting the appropriate transportation method based on the pet's condition

Health Assessment

checklist	Carry-on recommended	Cargo compartment transport recommended	Consideration to forgo transportation
age	6 months to 7 years old Active, healthy older dogs	1 year to 5 years old Healthy adult dogs and cats	Less than 3 months old Older age and pre-existing medical conditions
(the condition of) one's health	Periodic checkups have been made Inoculation complete	Health checkup cleared Stress tolerant	Acute illness available while pregnant
Personality and Behavior	docile personality (animals) taking kindly to men	active personality Independence.	extreme anxiety Aggressive.

Seasonal and climatic considerations

Precautions and measures in seasonal transportation

season	important point	Specific measures
Summer Transportation (June-September)	Stress from high temperatures	Select early morning or evening flights Ensure an air-conditioned waiting area
	Risk of dehydration	Adequate hydration Proper placement of refrigerant
	Restrictions on short-horse breeds	Prior confirmation of transport availability Consultation with a Veterinarian
Winter Transportation (Dec-Feb)	Stress due to low temperatures	Prepare cold-weather gear Use of thermal pads
	Risk of freezing	Prevention of freezing of water supply units Temperature control of waiting area
	Anti-Dryness	Use of moisturizing sheets Ensure adequate ventilation

Transportation restrictions due to weather conditions

weather conditions	Restrictions	countermeasure
Temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius	Possible discontinuation of transportation	Consider changing the schedule
Temperature below 5 degrees Celsius	Some restrictions apply.	Reinforcement of heat insulation measures
Strong winds and heavy rain	Affects on-boarding decisions	Secure alternative flights

4. complete guide to preparation and procedures

Preparation Schedule

Follow the timeline below to prepare for safe transportation:

Preparation details by time

time	Preparation items	Specific Work
3 months ago	Airline Selection and Reservations	Compare the conditions of several airlines
		Confirmation of reservation slots and tentative reservations
		Check Rate Plans
	Health Screening Appointment	Appointment at your family veterinarian
		Confirmation of required vaccinations
		Confirmation of medical history
2 months ago	Confirmation and preparation of required documents	Passport Preparation (International Flights)
		Obtaining immunization certificates
		Confirmation of health certificate requirements
	Preparation of transportation supplies	Purchase a cage that meets IATA standards
		Start of cage training
		Listing of equipment needed
1 month ago	Strengthening Health Care	Regular health checks
		Stress Reduction Training
		Adjustment of dietary management
	Final confirmation	Final confirmation with airline
		Reconfirmation of documents
		Confirm contact information in case of emergency

Checklist of Required Documents

classification	necessary documents	precautions	Acquisition period
Basic Required Documents	health certificate	Diagnosis by veterinarian required Use the prescribed form	Obtained within 10 days of departure
	rabies vaccination certificate	Required for a certain period of time after vaccination Important to check expiration date	Expiration date within 1 year
	Microchip registration certificate	Conforms to ISO standards Confirmation of registration number	Pre-acquisition
Additional documents for international flights	Export Quarantine Certificate	Must be obtained at an animal quarantine station Reservations may be required	Obtained at the animal quarantine station
Additional documents for international flights	import license	Check requirements by country May take time to acquire	Depends on the destination country's regulations

All documents should be original and photocopies are recommended.
For international flights, a certificate in English may be required.

List of required preparations

category	things to be prepared	remarks	priority (e.g. traffic)
transportation goods	IATA compliant cage	Size and standard confirmation required	indispensable
	Water supply unit (freeze-prevention type)	Confirmation of secure fixation	indispensable
	Water absorbent mat	Prepare sufficient number of sheets	indispensable
	Name tags and signs	Waterproof	indispensable
care products	Favorite Toys	Small and safe	recommendation
	Familiar blanket	For familiar scent	recommendation
	household medicine	Preparation after consultation with a veterinarian	depending on circumstances
	Relaxation goods	Veterinarian recommended	recommendation
emergency supplies	First Aid Kit	Basic first aid supplies	indispensable
	Spare absorbent pad	Prepare more sheets than expected	indispensable
	Wet wipes for pets	Unscented type is recommended	recommendation
	Emergency Contact List	Veterinary and airline contacts	indispensable

Explanation of ImportanceRequired: Items that must be prepared
Recommended: Desirable items to have
Depends on the situation: Prepare according to the pet's condition

Transport cage preparation and standards

IATA standard requirements

(data) item	Requirement Details	Check Point
Size	Head does not touch the ceiling when standing I can lie down and sleep comfortably. Space to rotate your body	Height = shoulder height + headroom Length = body length × 1.5 Width = Body width x 2
structure	Robust materials Adequate ventilation openings Secure locking mechanism	Use of metal bolts Check location of ventilation openings Double check the locks
equipment	Installation of water supply unit Equipped with water-absorbing mat Identification tag attachment	Water leak check Fixing mats Tag visibility

Cage training steps for pet transportation

stage	Period	Training Content	Points to note
introductory period (e.g. to a new product or service)	Week 1	Installed with cage open	Installed in living rooms and other everyday living spaces Creating a stress-free environment
		Induction with snacks	Use your favorite treats Absolutely avoid coercion.
		Permission for free entry and exit	Pace is tailored to the individual. Focus on positive experiences
Familiarization period	2nd week	Feeding in a cage	Gradually moved to the back of the cage Consistent meal times
		Short door closing practice	Start with a few seconds at first Observe anxiety.
		Praise and reward	Consistent voice and praise. Keep snacks in moderation.
full-scale training	After 3 weeks	Long-stay practice	Extended time in phases Consider nighttime practice.
		Movement practice	We'll start with a short distance indoors. Get used to the shaking.
		Familiarity with environmental sounds	Reproduction of airport and in-flight sounds Gradually increase the volume

Please adjust the progress according to your pet's personality and age.
Forced training may be counterproductive.

The following article explains more about pet transport gauges.

▶︎How to choose the right pet crate (gauge) for transporting pets by plane

5. precautions and risk measures

Major Risk Factors and Countermeasures

Special attention should be paid to the following factors for the safe transportation of pets

Temperature control and stress management

control item	Target Period/Scene	Specific measures	Implementation period
Temperature control (Summer)	When selecting a flight	Choose early morning or evening flights	at the time of reservation
	standby time (e.g. cellular phones)	Temperature control during airport standby time	very day
	things to be prepared	Prepare spare refrigerant	day before departure
	physical condition control	Hydration management	24-hour (e.g. observation, operation (of a machine), care (of patient))
Temperature control (Winter)	Thermal insulation	Preparation and use of cold-weather equipment	Before Departure
	Route Confirmation	Confirmation of flights via cold weather	at the time of reservation
	things to be prepared	Preparation of thermal insulation	day before departure
	Equipment measures	Measures to prevent freezing of water supply units, etc.	very day
Stress Management (Advance preparation)	training	Cage familiarization training (2 weeks prior)	2 weeks prior to
	environmental improvement	Prepare familiar toys and blankets	1 week before
	medication management	Use of supplements as needed	Veterinary consultation required
	Adaptation to sound	Habituation training to environmental sounds	2 weeks prior to
Stress Management (Same-day service)	Exercise Management	Moderate exercise promotes fatigue.	Before Departure
	Moisture Management	Water supply at the right time	24-hour (e.g. observation, operation (of a machine), care (of patient))
	way of dealing with	Calm demeanor	24-hour (e.g. observation, operation (of a machine), care (of patient))
	Environmental Management	Elimination of unnecessary stressors	24-hour (e.g. observation, operation (of a machine), care (of patient))

Important Explanatory NotesAdjust measures accordingly depending on the season and weather conditions.
Individual differences in pets must be taken into account.
If any abnormality is observed, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Emergency Response Plan

Possible problems and countermeasures

situation	Initial response	secondary support	precautionary measures
Flight Delays	Contact Airline Securing a standby location	Confirmation of alternative flights Confirmation of pet's condition	Plans with plenty of time to spare Weather check
Signs of poor health	Contact your veterinarian Recording of symptoms	Identification of nearby hospitals Consideration of postponement of transportation	preliminary health checkup Physical Condition Records

6. frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can you transport short-breed dogs (pugs, bulldogs, etc.)?

Special care must be taken in the transportation of shorthorse breeds:

Restrictions by Airline

- Transportation restrictions during the summer months
- Special health certificate request
- Refusal to transport by some airlines

Necessary measures

- Special health examinations by a veterinarian
- Recommended for transport in periods of low temperatures
- Ensure adequate acclimatization period

Q2: What should I be aware of if I have to make a connection on an international flight?

transit time

- At least 3 hours recommended
- Customs formalities time considerations
- Reserve time

Required Confirmation

- Pet facilities at transfer airports
- Quarantine regulations in each country
- Cooperation system among airlines

Q3: Can I check the condition of my pet during transportation?

The method of confirmation differs depending on the method of transportation:

For carry-on baggage

- Can be visually checked at all times
- Immediate response possible depending on the condition

For cargo compartment transportation

- Monitoring system available on some airlines.
- Periodic checks by ground staff
- Emergency contact system available in case of abnormalities

Q4. what are the estimated transportation costs?

Transport Method	domestic airline (company)	international air route
(of luggage, etc.) able to be taken into the cabin of the aircraft	10,000 to 30,000 yen	30,000 - 80,000 yen
Cargo hold transport	30,000-50,000 yen	100,000 - 300,000 yen

*Varies depending on airline, distance, and pet size

Q5. Can I get a refund if I cancel the transportation?

Policies vary by airline:

Cancellation possible
- Apply at least 72 hours prior to departure
- Submission of veterinarian's certificate
- Cancellation of flights due to bad weather
Not eligible for refund
- Last minute cancellations
- Incomplete required documents
- Denial of boarding due to pet's condition

Other frequently asked questions are detailed in the following pages.

▶︎Frequently Asked Questions

Expert Advice

The most important aspect of transporting pets is to provide adequate preparation time. We recommend starting preparations at least 2-3 months in advance, especially for international flights. It is also important to take into account your pet's personality and health to select the most appropriate mode of transport."

PetAir Seto

Summary: For Safe Pet Transportation

Important POINTCareful Preparation: Planning 2-3 months in advance is the key to safe transportation.
The best choice: It is important to choose the airline and method of transport that best suits the characteristics of your pet.
Complete documentation: Make sure that all required documents are prepared well in advance and that there are no omissions.
Health Care:Health checks prior to the event and physical condition up to the day of the event are essential.

The Complete Guide to Pet Transport - PetAir JPN [Official] - Support for Pets Traveling and Moving Overseas

Detailed description of the actual time involved in the international shipping process for pets. The typical 90-125 hours of work can be reduced to just 8-11 hours with the use of experts. A thorough guide to the entire process and the nine time-saving benefits. Supports safe and efficient international travel for pets.

Safe and secure overseas travel with pets.

Traveling abroad with your pet, a precious member of the family.
There are many things to prepare for, such as regulations, required documents, and transportation procedures in each country, which can be very anxious.
PetAir JPN will be there for such anxieties of pet owners and provide full support from travel planning to arrival.

PetAir Support DetailsProposal of the best plan according to the regulations of the destination country
Support in preparing necessary procedures and documents
■ Safe and comfortable transportation options
Reliable support until arrival

Reliable Support System✓ Courteous and experienced staff
✓ Understand and respond to the latest regulatory information from each country
✓ Thorough safety management during transportation

I want to start a new life with my beloved pet."
Let us help you give shape to that desire.

First, please contact us to discuss your needs at a free consultation.
Our experienced staff will propose the best plan for you.

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Please share your experiences and opinions!

Do you have any experiences or questions about traveling abroad with your pet?

If you have actually experienced this, please share with us the points you took care of in your preparation and any problems you had while traveling. We also welcome questions from those who are thinking of traveling to Japan in the future.

Is it possible to move to this country? How long do I have to prepare?

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Risako Seto

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Since childhood, she has been fascinated by animals and entered the field of veterinary medicine to work in a job that protects their lives. As a certified pet nurse and an expert in international pet transportation, I have helped many pets and their families take a new step forward.
We strive to offer transportation plans that are tailored to each individual animal, which we can only do because of our medical knowledge and deep love for animals. We support optimal international transportation with your pet's mental and physical health as our first priority.

［Qualifications]

pet nurse
Animal Health Technician (AHT)
Veterinary Technician (VT)

At PetAirJPN, he is responsible for supporting safe and comfortable transportation of pets as an international pet transportation consultant.

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