Traveling with Pets
Everything you need to know about bringing your furry friends
Pet Travel Options
Pets can travel in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo depending on size, breed, and airline policy
In-Cabin
Small pets travel with you in the passenger cabin
- Pets under 8kg (18 lbs) including carrier
- Carrier fits under seat
- Dogs, cats, and small birds
- Must remain in carrier during flight
Fee: $50-$125 each way
Checked Baggage
Medium-sized pets travel in the climate-controlled cargo hold
- Pets 8-45kg (18-100 lbs)
- IATA-approved hard-sided crate
- Temperature-controlled compartment
- Limited to direct flights
Fee: $125-$250 each way
Cargo Shipment
Large pets or multiple animals travel as air cargo
- Pets over 45kg (100 lbs)
- Multiple pets traveling together
- Specialized pet shipping service
- Advanced booking required
Fee: $250+ (varies by size)
Important: Pet travel must be arranged in advance. Contact your airline at least 48-72 hours before departure to reserve space for your pet.
Required Documentation
Ensure you have all necessary paperwork before traveling
Health Certificate
- Issued by licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel
- Confirms pet is healthy and fit to fly
- Must include breed, age, weight, and microchip number
- Required for both domestic and international travel
Vaccination Records
- Rabies vaccination (must be current)
- At least 30 days old but not expired
- Other vaccines as required by destination country
- Bring original vaccination certificate
Import/Export Permits
- Required for international pet travel
- Issued by destination country's agriculture department
- May require advance application (4-6 weeks)
- Check embassy website for specific requirements
Microchip Information
- ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip
- Implanted before rabies vaccination
- Required for travel to EU and many other countries
- Registration information must be up to date
Quarantine Requirements for Dominica
Pets entering Dominica may be subject to quarantine depending on origin country and vaccination status. General requirements include:
- • Import permit must be obtained from Dominica's Ministry of Agriculture
- • Pets from rabies-free countries may qualify for reduced quarantine
- • Standard quarantine period is 6 months (can be reduced with proper documentation)
- • Quarantine facilities are located near the airport
- • Contact Ministry of Agriculture at least 4 weeks before travel
Pet Carrier Requirements
Proper carrier is essential for your pet's safety and comfort
In-Cabin Carrier Specifications
- Maximum dimensions: 45cm x 35cm x 20cm (18" x 14" x 8")
- Well-ventilated on at least two sides
- Secure closures (zippers, snaps, or clips)
- Leak-proof bottom with absorbent material
- Pet must be able to stand and turn around
- Soft-sided carriers recommended for under-seat fit
Cargo Crate Specifications (IATA)
- Hard-sided plastic or fiberglass (no wire crates)
- Metal door with secure locking mechanism
- Pet can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably
- Ventilation openings on at least three sides
- Attached food and water dishes
- "Live Animal" labels on top and at least one side
Carrier Preparation Tips
Comfort Items:
- • Familiar blanket or toy
- • Absorbent bedding
- • Ice pack for hot weather
Identification:
- • Owner's contact information
- • Pet's name and photo
- • Destination address
Acclimation:
- • Practice carrier time at home
- • Feed light meal 4-6 hrs before
- • Water access until check-in
Before You Travel
Prepare your pet for a safe and comfortable journey
Visit the Vet
Schedule a check-up 2-4 weeks before travel to ensure your pet is healthy and get required documentation.
Exercise Before Flight
Give your pet plenty of exercise a few hours before departure to help them relax during the flight.
Avoid Sedation
Airlines and vets discourage sedating pets. Consult your vet about natural calming alternatives if needed.
Update ID Tags
Ensure collar tags and microchip registration have current contact information and destination details.
Restricted Breeds
Some airlines restrict certain dog breeds due to safety concerns. Check with your airline regarding:
- • Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats)
- • Aggressive breeds (Pit Bulls, Rottweilers - varies by airline)
- • Very large breeds exceeding weight limits
- • Exotic or wild animals
Temperature Restrictions
Pet cargo travel may be restricted during extreme temperatures:
- • No cargo travel if temp below 7°C (45°F) at origin/destination
- • No cargo travel if temp above 30°C (85°F) at any point
- • Exceptions may apply with veterinary certificate
- • Check weather forecasts before booking
Service & Emotional Support Animals
Trained service animals (dogs only) are permitted to travel in the cabin at no charge. Proper documentation required:
- US DOT Service Animal Transportation Form (48 hours before flight)
- Current vaccination records
- Training certification for service tasks
- Note: Emotional support animals are no longer recognized by most airlines