To book a pet on Delta Cargo, contact their Live Animal Desk via email at [email protected] to arrange shipment. Note that a household pet embargo is currently in place, and specialized, international, or commercial,, pet shipping typically requires using a professional agent or specific cargo procedures.

How to fly a dog in cargo on Delta?

Requirements for Cargo Travel

The travel crate/container must allow the pet to stand, sit-upright, lie down and turn around without touching the top or sides. After obtaining a crate/container that complies with the IATA-LAR, your pet must be acclimated to confinement, which is a process that can take weeks to months.

How much does it cost to fly pets in cargo?

Example Estimate: Flying one small dog (like a Chihuahua) domestically via cargo with a pet-friendly airline, will likely cost between $275 USD to $300 USD. Larger dogs' airfreight (like a Great Dane) can go up to around $1000 USD for a domestic move, especially if you have a custom kennel.

How safe is Delta Cargo for pets?

Protection, Care and Comfort. Delta Cargo is committed to the safe and reliable transport of all animals in our care. With an in-house experienced veterinarian, we provide unparalleled expertise.

Which airline is best for flying pets in cargo?

American Airlines is one of the most pet-friendly airlines globally and is a popular option for those wishing to travel with their pets, both in the cabin or in the cargo. American Airlines has developed its own service specifically made for transporting pets in the cargo - it's called American PetEmbark.

How To Fly With Your Dog On Delta Airlines (2026)

How stressful is it for a dog to fly in cargo?

Fact: While travel can be stressful, especially for anxious pets, most pets won't suffer any long-term effects from travel in cargo. Airlines and pet shippers take steps to reduce stress by limiting handling, minimizing time in the cargo area, and maintaining stable environmental conditions throughout the flight.

Is it better to fly pets as cargo or checked baggage?

Traveling as manifested cargo is considered a safer option overall. To be clear, pets travel in the cargo hold, regardless of whether they are traveling as cargo or checked baggage. The difference is in the holding and shipping protocols that are used.

How much is the Delta pet fee?

Delta's pet fee for in-cabin travel is generally $150 each way for U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands travel, for tickets issued on or after April 8, 2025, and $200 each way for most international routes, though older tickets might have a $95 fee, with Brazil having specific rates. Fees are paid at check-in and apply per direction, with strict rules about carrier size (fitting under the seat) and pet age, and you must call ahead to book as space is limited.
 

How do I add a pet on Delta?

When you arrive at the airport, you will need to visit the Special Service Counter to check in with your pet. At check-in, a Delta agent will ensure your pet and kennel meet the necessary requirements for your trip and collect the required pet fee.

What paperwork do I need to fly my pet?

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.

How to fly with a 70 pound dog?

You have two main options:

1. Your large dog can fly in the cabin as a service animal if they're trained to perform specific tasks for a disability.
2. If your large dog is not a service dog, they'll need to travel in the cargo hold, and you'll need to pay airline fees.

What does a cargo hold look like for dogs?

Pets are placed in a specific section of the cargo hold. This area is typically pressurized and climate-controlled, ensuring adequate airflow and comfortable temperatures similar to the passenger cabin. The crates are securely fastened in the cargo hold to prevent movement during take-off, landing, or turbulence.

How do pets survive in the cargo hold?

One of the most common concerns is that the cargo hold is unsafe or unsuitable for pets. In reality, the cargo holds of commercial airlines that transport pets are specifically designed to keep them safe and comfortable. These areas are pressurised and temperature-controlled, much like the cabin where passengers sit.

Is it cold for dogs in cargo?

Contrary to the myth, the cargo area on most flights that accept pets is climate-controlled, just like the passenger cabin above.

How much does it cost to fly your pet in cargo?

In-cabin pet fees typically range from $95 to $200 each way, depending on the airline. Cargo flight fees for larger dogs can range from $300 to $1500 or more, depending on the size of the pet and destination. International travel: Expect higher expenses. Costs can double or triple compared to domestic flights.

What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?

The "7 7 7 rule" for dogs is a puppy socialization guideline, originally by Pat Hastings, suggesting exposing puppies to 7 different people, 7 different locations, and 7 different surfaces/objects/sounds/challenges (variations exist) by about 7 weeks old to build confidence, resilience, and prevent fear or anxiety as adults. Key experiences include meeting diverse individuals, visiting different places like a vet's office or friend's house, walking on various substrates (grass, tile, carpet), and encountering new objects and gentle challenges (like tunnels or boxes).
 

What is the 7 second rule for dogs?

The "7-second rule" for dogs is a simple test to see if pavement is too hot for their paws: press the back of your hand to the ground for seven seconds, and if it's too hot for you to hold comfortably, it's too hot for your dog's paw pads, which can easily burn on surfaces like asphalt, concrete, and even artificial turf. This helps prevent paw burns by prompting you to walk during cooler times (early morning/late evening) or stick to grass, as tarmac can get extremely hot even on moderately warm days.
 

What is the best sedative for dogs flying?

A pheromone calming collar can help lower anxiety (Adaptil®). Trazodone, gabapentin, and alprazolam are sometimes prescribed by veterinarians to reduce the anxiety that some dogs experience when traveling.

Can I sit in cargo with my dog?

Pets can only fly in cargo when traveling with certain active-duty military or State Department employees. If you plan to fly with your pet, they must be a cat or dog and stay in the cabin with you (if there's space available).

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