Is flying a dog in cargo safe?

In general, yes, flying with a dog in cargo is safe. Thousands of animals fly in cargo across the globe annually. We just hear about the unfortunate cases where something goes wrong. Think about how many shelters transport cats and dogs every day.



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Cargo travel is stressful for any pet, young or old. Senior pets, pets prone to anxiety, or those in general poor health are at increased risk of heart failure during travel.

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Flying in the cargo can be a harrowing experience for any animal. It's loud; it's turbulent; and it's full of bizarre sites, sounds, and smells. It's not uncommon for animals to injure themselves by trying to claw or chew their way through a carrier.

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The cargo area is climate-controlled and pressurized to ensure the safety and well-being of your pet. Reputable airlines also enforce seasonal restrictions and temperature-related rules.

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How Do I Prepare My Dog For Flight Cargo? A Step-By-Step Guide
  1. Choose an IATA-Compliant Crate.
  2. Acclimate Your Dog to the Crate.
  3. Visit the Veterinarian.
  4. Review Airline Policies and Documentation Requirements.
  5. Provide Comfort Items and Essentials.
  6. Exercise Your Dog Before the Flight.
  7. Arrive Early at the Airport.


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In most cases, if the layover is under 3 hours and if your pet is traveling in the cargo hold as checked baggage or air cargo, it will be transferred from one airplane to the next as long as you are staying on the same airline. In this case, your pet is just transiting the country.

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Sedation risks for dogs and cats The cargo hold is temperature controlled and dark, and even the most excitable or anxious pets commonly calm down once they are settled in the hold. Sedating pets before travelling by air is a big no and is not recommended by experts.

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The cargo hold is pressurized and temperature controlled, with the temp usually at about 20 degrees colder than the cabin (at altitude).

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When it comes to flying with pets, one common question that pet owners often ask is whether they should sedate their pets during air travel. At PetRelocation, our straightforward answer is NO. Sedation carries various risks and is not recommended for pets during air travel.

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Thanks for your questions/concerns about the safest method of travel for your dog! Many other pet owners have pondered the same question, and we're happy to provide some guidance. Having your pet travel via cargo instead of checked baggage would be best.

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Line the pet carrier: Place an absorbent pad or puppy training pad at the bottom of the carrier. If your dog needs to go to the bathroom during the flight, the pad will absorb any waste and help keep your pet comfortable.

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If you have an anxious dog too large to fly in the cabin with you, it's best you do NOT fly her unless she is a legitimate service dog. Transporting your dog via cargo can be a very stressful and traumatizing experience for your dog, especially if she is anxious to begin with.

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Generally, the temperature in the hold is kept between 12 and 16 Celsius (54 and 61 Fahrenheit) depending on the aircraft and its cargo load.

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The cargo hold is pressurized and temperature controlled, with the temp usually at about 20 degrees colder than the cabin (at altitude).

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If you must take your nervous pup or pussycat on an airplane, follow this expert advice to make the experience run smoother for you and your pet.
  1. Know Signs of Distress. ...
  2. Travel With Your Puppy. ...
  3. Bring a Familiar Comfort Object. ...
  4. Perform Crate or Carrier Training. ...
  5. Swaddle Your Fur Baby. ...
  6. Try Aromatherapy.
  7. Remain Calm.


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We will reach out to you with our next available flight. Depending on the wait time for the next available flight, your pet may receive the following care: Watering and Feeding. All dogs and cats will be provided food and water per the USDA and IATA guidelines.

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That's why the American Veterinary Medical Association strongly advises against using tranquilizers or sedatives. In fact, airlines won't even accept sedated or tranquilized dogs and cats. Many of them won't even knowingly accept a dog or cat that has been or appears to have been sedated.

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Airlines That Allow Pets in Cargo
  • Hawaiian Airlines Pet Policy.
  • Alaska Airlines Pet Policy.
  • American Airlines Pet Policy.
  • Delta Airlines Pet Policy.
  • United Airlines Pet Policy.
  • Southwest Airlines Pet Policy.


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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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