Do pets have to go through TSA?

The X-ray at the security checkpoint is used to screen passengers' personal property and carry-on luggage only. If possible, carry the pet through the walk-through metal detector during the screening process. Alternately, a pet can walk through the screening process if the owner has the pet on a leash.



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You will need to check your pet in and pick it up at the cargo facility of your airline which is typically located on airport grounds but not in the airport terminal. Sometimes these terms, checked baggage or air cargo, create a false impression, but both describe humane ways of transporting animals.

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You will need a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection to travel and some airlines require an acclimation certificate. Both of these certificates can only be completed and signed by a federally accredited veterinarian.

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All pets should be brought to a security checkpoint in a hand-held travel carrier. Remove the pet from the carrier just prior to the beginning of the screening process. Place the empty travel carrier on the checkpoint conveyor belt so it can be X-rayed. Never place a pet in the X-ray tunnel.

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Airlines typically require a health certificate—issued by an accredited veterinarian following an office visit that includes a physical examination—stating your dog is healthy and up-to-date on her vaccinations. The certificate is only good for 30 days, and you'll need it for both your departure and return.

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Dogs, cats, and turtles are free of duty. Other pets imported into the United States, if subject to a customs duty, may be included in your personal exemption if they accompany you and are imported for your personal use and not for sale.

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Never place a pet in the x-ray tunnel. The x-ray at the security checkpoint is used to screen passengers' personal property and carry-on luggage only. If possible, carry the pet during the screening process. Alternately, a pet can walk through the screening process if the owner has the pet on a leash.

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Adult dogs and cats easily make it through the night without having to relieve themselves, so your pet should also be OK on most very long flights. Regardless, you'll have to line their carrier with something absorbent - a Dry Fur pad works nicely under your pet's own crate pad or thin blanket.

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A TSA officer will give the pet owner's hands an explosive trace detection swab to ensure there is no explosive residue on the owner's hands.

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Exception: Working dogs on a leash. Working and service animals are allowed inside the passenger terminals as long as they are on a leash. All other animals must be in a kennel. Not all those traveling with pets adhere to these rules, and many can be seen walking their dogs on leashes throughout the airport.

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Usually dogs are only allowed to fly in the cabin—known as carry-on pets—if they can comfortably fit in a carrier that you can stow under the seat in front of you. A small number of airlines, including JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Etihad Airways, allow passengers flying with dogs to buy an extra seat for their pet.

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All dogs, cats and ferrets must have proof of a current rabies vaccination administered after a microchip was implanted to enter France. If your pet is entering France from a Listed Third Country, the primary rabies vaccination must be administered no sooner than 21 days before entering France.

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Your pet can travel on the plane with you (either in-cabin, as accompanied baggage, or as cargo). Your pet will be charged accordingly. Some airlines no longer offer this option and some countries do not allow pets to enter the country in-cabin. You can book your pet on a separate flight.

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However, when you enter the United States, you must provide a written or verbal statement your dogs have NOT been in a country that is high risk for rabies within the last 6 months or since birth if under 6 months of age.

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So, yes, in conclusion, flying can be stressful for dogs but it can also be relatively stress-free. Each dog is different and as with many situations, the more you become exposed to something, the more you get adjusted to it. This rings true for dogs going on a flight too!

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Consult your veterinarian to create the best travel plan for your dog if he doesn't travel well. Strategies to reduce the stress of canine flights include: A Thundershirt® which swaddles the dog much like swaddling an infant and can reduce anxiety. A pheromone calming collar to help lower anxiety.

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Pets are treated as a priority and should be put on last and taken off first. In the case of the long-haul flights with transfers the pets are checked at any refuel/transfer points and their water bowls are replenished.

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Your pet's carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and must have the following features:
  • a waterproof bottom - be sure and also get some good pet pads.
  • adequate ventilation - at least 2 sides of your carrier should have mesh ventilation.


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