What Is a Pet Flight Nanny — and Should I Hire One?

If you’re planning a move, a long-distance trip, or a complex journey with your cat or dog, you’ve probably come across the term pet flight nanny. But what does a flight nanny actually do — and how do you know if hiring one is right for your pet?

Here’s what you need to know — and why this growing service is helping more pets travel safely and calmly than ever before.

What Is a Pet Flight Nanny?

A pet flight nanny is a professional who personally accompanies your pet on a commercial flight, most often in the cabin. The nanny handles all the logistics — from check-in to handoff — and ensures your pet is cared for, calm, and supervised throughout the journey.

At Cabin Companions, every flight nanny is either Monica or Gabe, the co-founders of the company. We don’t use contractors or third parties. That means your pet is never passed off, and you know exactly who’s with them every step of the way.

Is a Pet Flight Nanny Right for My Pet?

Every pet is different — and so is every journey. Some animals are seasoned travelers. Others get nervous before they even leave the house. A pet flight nanny might be the right fit if you’re looking for a travel experience that’s calm, personal, and hands-on.

Maybe you’re adopting a new pet from out of state. Maybe you’re moving and can’t be on the flight yourself. Or maybe your cat or dog is older, anxious, or just needs a little extra care.

A pet flight nanny gives your pet one-on-one attention, in the cabin when possible, and always with someone who’s focused solely on them. It’s about more than getting from point A to point B — it’s about helping your pet feel safe the whole way there.

What a Pet Flight Nanny Service Includes

When you book a pet flight nanny with Cabin Companions, you can expect:

✅ A dedicated escort (always Monica or Gabe — never handed off)

✅ Door-to-door service, including pickup and drop-off

✅ Custom trip planning based on your schedule and your pet’s needs

✅ Live updates, including AirTag tracking

✅ All the logistics handled — from booking to boarding

What If My Pet Is Too Big to Fly In-Cabin?

You can still work with a pet flight nanny!

Many airlines require larger dogs to fly in climate-controlled cargo, and in those cases, we escort them personally through every step of the trip — including check-in, layovers, customs, and pickup.

We’ve helped large-breed dogs and service animals fly safely and comfortably. Even when cargo is required, your pet is never handed off to someone they don’t know. We stay with them through the entire process and update you along the way.

For pets flying internationally, we always recommend checking USDA’s Pet Travel site for the latest health certificate and import requirements by country.

Why Not Just Ship My Pet?

Some pet owners consider traditional pet shipping services — but the experience is very different from flying with a dedicated pet flight nanny.

With standard shipping, pets are often flown as unaccompanied cargo, handled by third-party logistics teams, and may spend time alone in cargo areas or warehouses between flights.

With a flight nanny, your pet is never left alone or handed off. They’re accompanied in-cabin by a trusted escort who provides one-on-one care from check-in to arrival. For many pet parents, that level of attention and reassurance makes all the difference.

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