How To Ship A Dog On United Airlines?

If you’re planning on traveling with your furry friend, you may be wondering how to ship a dog on United Airlines. While it can seem like a daunting task, with the right information and preparation, it can be a smooth and stress-free experience for both you and your dog.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort during the shipping process, as well as provide tips on how to make the experience as easy as possible for both you and your furry companion. So, let’s get started on making your dog’s travel a success!

How to Ship a Dog on United Airlines?

If you are planning to travel with your furry friend and need to transport them internationally or domestically, United Airlines offers a pet transportation service. However, before you move forward with booking your dog’s flight, there are some important things you need to know about the process. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the necessary information to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your furry friend.

1. United Airlines Pet Policy

United Airlines requires that all dogs traveling on their flights must be at least 16 weeks old and have all the necessary vaccinations. Additionally, only dogs and cats are allowed to travel in the cabin or cargo hold. Other pets such as birds, rabbits, and rodents are not accepted.

United Airlines also has specific guidelines for the size and weight of dogs that can travel in the cabin and cargo hold. Dogs that do not meet these requirements may not be allowed to travel.

Cabin

Dogs that weigh less than 20 pounds (including the carrier) can travel in the cabin with their owners. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and meet United Airlines’ carry-on baggage dimensions. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the carrier.

Cargo Hold

Dogs that weigh more than 20 pounds must travel in the cargo hold. United Airlines has specific requirements for the size and weight of the carrier, which must be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The carrier must also be well-ventilated and sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of air travel.

2. Booking Your Dog’s Flight

When booking your dog’s flight, it’s important to inform United Airlines that you will be traveling with a pet. You can do this online or by calling the airline’s customer service center. United Airlines requires that you provide all the necessary documentation, including proof of vaccinations and a health certificate from your veterinarian.

It’s also important to book your dog’s flight as early as possible to ensure that there is space available for your furry friend. United Airlines limits the number of pets that can travel on each flight, so it’s important to plan ahead.

3. Preparing Your Dog for the Flight

Transporting your dog on a plane can be stressful for both you and your furry friend. To ensure a safe and comfortable journey, it’s important to prepare your dog for the flight. Here are some tips:

Health Checkup

Before the flight, take your dog to the veterinarian for a health checkup. This will ensure that your dog is healthy and fit to travel.

Exercise and Playtime

Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and playtime before the flight. This will help your furry friend relax and sleep during the flight.

Travel Carrier

Make sure your dog’s travel carrier is the right size and properly ventilated. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the carrier.

Familiarity

Introduce your dog to the carrier before the flight and let them spend time in it. This will make the carrier a familiar and comfortable place for your furry friend.

4. Benefits of United Airlines Pet Transportation

United Airlines’ pet transportation service offers several benefits to pet owners. Here are some of the benefits:

Expertise

United Airlines has years of experience transporting pets and has a team of dedicated professionals who ensure that your furry friend is safe and comfortable during the journey.

Destination Services

United Airlines offers destination services to help you and your furry friend navigate through the airport and customs process.

Peace of Mind

By choosing United Airlines’ pet transportation service, you can have peace of mind knowing that your furry friend is in good hands.

5. United Airlines Pet Transportation Vs Other Airlines

If you are comparing United Airlines’ pet transportation service with other airlines, here are some factors to consider:

Cost

United Airlines’ pet transportation service may be more expensive than other airlines, but it offers several benefits that other airlines may not provide.

Expertise

United Airlines has years of experience transporting pets and has a team of dedicated professionals who ensure that your furry friend is safe and comfortable during the journey.

Destination Services

United Airlines offers destination services to help you and your furry friend navigate through the airport and customs process.

6. United Airlines Pet Transportation Vs Driving

If you are considering driving to your destination instead of flying, here are some factors to consider:

Comfort

Driving can be stressful for your furry friend, especially if you are traveling long distances.

Cost

Driving can be more expensive than flying, especially if you factor in gas and hotel costs.

Time

Driving can take longer than flying, which can be inconvenient if you have a tight schedule.

7. Tips for a Smooth Journey

Here are some tips to ensure a smooth journey for your furry friend:

Food and Water

Make sure your dog has access to food and water before the flight. However, do not feed your dog for several hours before the flight to prevent motion sickness.

Identification

Make sure your dog has identification tags with your contact information in case they get lost during the journey.

Comfort Items

Bring your dog’s favorite toys and blankets to make them feel more comfortable during the journey.

8. Conclusion

Transporting your furry friend on a plane can be stressful, but with United Airlines’ pet transportation service, you can have peace of mind knowing that your dog is in good hands. By following the tips and guidelines provided in this article, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your furry friend.

9. References

Here are some references that you may find useful:

United Airlines Pet Policy

https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/animals/petsafe.html

United Airlines Pet Transportation

https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/animals/petsafe.html

US Department of Agriculture

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel

10. FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about United Airlines’ pet transportation service:

Q: Can I travel with my dog in the cabin?

A: Yes, you can travel with your dog in the cabin if they weigh less than 20 pounds.

Q: Can I travel with my dog if they are a service animal?

A: Yes, service animals are allowed to travel with their owners on United Airlines’ flights.

Q: How much does United Airlines’ pet transportation service cost?

A: The cost of United Airlines’ pet transportation service varies depending on the size and weight of your dog and the destination.

**H2 Heading: Frequently Asked Questions**

**Question 1: What are the requirements for shipping a dog on United Airlines?**

To ship a dog on United Airlines, the dog must meet certain requirements. The dog must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned. The dog must also be in good health and have all the necessary vaccinations and documentation. Additionally, the dog must be able to fit comfortably in a kennel that meets United Airlines’ size requirements.

**Question 2: How do I prepare my dog for air travel?**

Preparing your dog for air travel requires several steps. First, make sure your dog is comfortable in a kennel by getting them used to spending time in it before the flight. Second, make sure your dog has access to food and water before the flight and is properly hydrated. Third, take your dog for a walk before the flight to help them relax. Finally, make sure your dog has all the necessary documentation and identification tags.

**Question 3: What are the size requirements for a kennel when shipping a dog on United Airlines?**

The size of the kennel required for shipping a dog on United Airlines depends on the size of the dog. The kennel must be large enough for the dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. United Airlines provides detailed information on their website regarding the size requirements for kennels based on the size of the dog.

**Question 4: How much does it cost to ship a dog on United Airlines?**

The cost of shipping a dog on United Airlines varies based on several factors, including the size of the dog and the destination. United Airlines offers a PetSafe program which provides safe and comfortable air transportation for pets. The cost of shipping a dog on United Airlines through the PetSafe program starts at $149 for domestic flights and $224 for international flights.

**Question 5: Can I travel with my dog on the same flight when shipping them on United Airlines?**

Unfortunately, United Airlines does not allow passengers to travel with their pets on the same flight when shipping them. However, United Airlines offers a PetSafe program which provides safe and comfortable air transportation for pets. The program ensures that pets are well-cared for during the flight and are transported to their destination safely.

In conclusion, shipping your dog on United Airlines can be a daunting task, but with proper preparation and attention to detail, it can be a smooth and stress-free experience. Remember to check all requirements and regulations before booking your dog’s flight, including necessary documentation, crate size, and health considerations.

It is also important to choose the right flight and route to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort. Direct flights are always preferable, and choose a time of year and day that will minimize exposure to extreme temperatures and weather conditions.

Lastly, make sure to prepare your dog for the flight by acclimatizing them to their crate and providing them with plenty of exercise and potty breaks before their journey. With these tips in mind, you can confidently plan your dog’s trip on United Airlines and look forward to a happy reunion at your destination.