Question 1

What Crates Are Permitted For Pet Air Travel?

Accepted Answer

Only IATA-specified crates are airline approved. All Dogtainers crates are IATA-specified, which means they’re accepted by all airlines. We have a range of crate sizes available for hire and for sale.

Question 2

What Animals Do Airlines Transport?

Accepted Answer

Airlines can transport pets and non-pet animals. Pets include dogs (not racing greyhounds), cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, domestic fish with no aeration requirements that aren’t intended for resale, and domestic birds that don’t need a permit to travel (maximum four birds per cage).   Animals that aren’t pets include, but are not limited to: reptiles, crocodiles, race horses, zoo creatures, racing pigeons, mice, day old chicks, live coral/rocks, marine animals for aquariums and research purposes, and racing greyhounds.

Question 3

Do All Airline Flights Take Animals?

Accepted Answer

No. Whether an airplane takes animals as cargo depends on the size of the plane. Smaller plans can’t take animals, or can only take one per flight. Bigger planes can carry more pets.

Question 4

Can I Be Booked On The Same Fight As My Animal?

Accepted Answer

Maybe. There are many more seats for people than there are for pets on an airplane. Because of this, if you want to be on the same flight as your pet, it is best to book their flight first. This does not guarantee you will be on the same flight, but it does give you much better odds.

Question 5

Do I Get Reward Points For My Pet's Flight?

Accepted Answer

Virgin’s Velocity Frequent Flyer members can earn 300 Points each time their dog or cat flies on Virgin Australia’s expansive domestic network. Silver, Gold and Platinum members will also receive a special Points bonus.  Qantas does not have a rewards program for pets.

Question 6

What happens before and after a pet's flight?

Accepted Answer

Once lodged at the airline terminal for the flight the airline staff place your pet in a special waiting area. Your pet will be last to be loaded onto the flight to avoid any lengthy waits in the elements on the tarmac.   On the flight the pets are secured into position in the temperature controlled, pressurised area. Unfortunately, as no people are allowed in the plane’s cargo area, pets cannot be checked on while in transit.  Pets are the first off the plane and are taken to the cargo terminal. If this is a layover before their final destination, Dogtainers staff will provide a comfort stop for your pet if there’s time before their next flight. Airlines will confirm your pet is travelling well and ready for the next leg.

Question 7

Do I Get Updates On My Pet’s Travel?

Accepted Answer

If your pet is flying on an international flight, you’ll receive updates from the airline with pictures at the start and end of the journey. As there’s no people in the cargo area, you cannot get updates on your pet during their flight, unless there’s a layover.   If your pet is flying on a domestic flight, the airline will not update you on your pet’s journey. However, if you elect to have Dogtainers’ drop off or pick up your pet at the airport, we will provide you with updates on how your pet is doing.

Question 8

Can I Fly My Brachy Breed Dog?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only under the guidance of a pet transportation specialist, like Dogtainers. There are certain conditions brachy breeds need to follow to fly that don’t apply to non-brachy breeds.

Question 9

Where Do I Pick Up and Drop Off My Pet at the Airport?

Accepted Answer

Airline pickup and drop off zones vary by airport, but they are typically in the cargo or freight terminal area. Once we’ve confirmed your flights, we’ll let you know exactly where your pet needs to be picked up and dropped off, or can even handle it for you with our Door-to-Door service.

Question 10

Can Big Dogs Fly in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Maybe. Both Virgin and Qantas have a maximum weight of 65kg per pet, including their crate. REX’s weight limit is 30kg.   If your pet + their crate weighs more than 65kg, don’t worry. We can transport your pet on the road in one of our specialty pet transportation vans.

Question 11

Can Brachycephalic Dog Breeds Fly in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Brachycephalic breeds, also known as “brachy” breeds, “snub-nosed” breeds, or “flat-faced” breeds, can fly in Australia, but only under certain conditions.   Brachycephalic breeds have a significantly higher risk of health complications due to their short snouts and compromised respiratory systems. Breathing difficulties worsen in warmer conditions, when pets are anxious, or when unacclimated to their transport crate. Because of this, they have more conditions for flying than non-brachy breeds.   Brachy breeds can only fly under the guidance of a pet transport specialist, like Dogtainers. We will manage your booking and advise you of all the relevant conditions and documentation so your pet can fly.