Summer Pet Travel: It’s Not Too Early to Start Planning

Name: Linda
Number of Pets: 2
Pet Type: Dogs
Pet Breed: Beagle and a English Cocker Spaniel
From: London, UK
To: Scottsdale, Arizona

Dear PetRelocation,

We may be relocating around June or July in 2015. Will my dogs be able to fly to Arizona during those months?

Thanks,

Linda

Hi Linda,

Thanks for your question! Summer pet travel is definitely an important topic, and it's crucial to educate yourself about the conditions and caveats well in advance.

Since this trip is still several months away and most airlines adjust their summer pet policies at least a little bit from year to year, it's too early to give you a definitive answer. That being said, we can point you in the right direction and tell you where to find the information you need.

Here are some details about summer airline embargoes from last summer, which will give you an idea of what to expect. Since your dogs are not snub-nosed breeds you probably won't face quite as many restrictions, however in the past British Airways (the airline you might be leaning towards using) has implemented flight restrictions for PHX during the summer. Many pet owners end up sending their pets earlier or later than originally planned in order to avoid embargoes like this and keep their pets safe. It may not fit your schedule ideally, but it's an option you may need to consider.

United is another one of our preferred airline carriers for pets all year round because they have solid pet-friendly policies. Even if it's hot, temperature shouldn't be a huge factor because pets are transported to the plane in an air-conditioned vehicle, given plenty of water, etc. Since pet safety is a priority, though, occasional embargoes are enacted.

We recommend checking in with the airlines directly to find out if they have any tips or predictions for you about this summer, and you can always keep an eye on pet travel blogs (like ours!) as your departure draws nearer so that you receive any updates that may be available.

Finally here, are a few safety tips for pets traveling in the summer as well as a link to our consultation page, which you can fill out if you'd like to find out more about our door-to-door services.

Good luck with everything!