LOOKING FOR ANSWERS?
Everything You Need to Know About Traveling With Your Pet
Planning a move with your pet? Our Pet Travel FAQ answers common questions about pet relocation, international pet travel, private ground transportation, airline requirements, travel documentation, and more.
ABOUT CABIN COMPANIONS
Questions About Working With Cabin Companions
Learn more about our team, our approach to pet transportation, and what makes Cabin Companions different from traditional pet shipping companies.
How is Cabin Companions different from other pet transportation companies?
Unlike many pet transportation companies, Cabin Companions does not operate as a marketplace that connects pet owners with independent contractors. Every journey is personally coordinated by our team, and your pet remains with the same dedicated escort from pickup through arrival whenever possible.
We specialize in highly personalized pet transportation for families relocating, traveling, adopting, or navigating major life transitions. Throughout the journey, you’ll have direct communication with your escort, real-time updates, photo check-ins, and the peace of mind of knowing exactly who is caring for your pet.
Our team includes experienced pet travel professionals, a licensed veterinary technician, and one of the nation’s leading experts in cat behavior and welfare. Whether we’re transporting a single cat across the country or coordinating a complex international relocation, our focus is always safety, transparency, and compassionate care.
Who will actually travel with my pet?
When you work with Cabin Companions, you’ll know exactly who is responsible for your pet’s care before travel begins. Unlike larger transportation networks that may subcontract or reassign trips, we introduce you to the specific team member handling your journey and remain available throughout the process.
Depending on the route and travel requirements, your pet may travel with a member of our core transportation team, including experienced pet travel escorts, a licensed veterinary technician, or one of our founders. You’ll receive direct contact information and ongoing updates throughout the journey.
Are you insured?
Yes. Cabin Companions carries commercial liability insurance and takes multiple additional precautions to protect the pets entrusted to our care.
Every journey includes careful planning, airline-compliant travel equipment, secure carriers, GPS tracking through AirTags when appropriate, emergency veterinary access, and detailed contingency planning for delays or schedule changes. Our goal is to provide the highest possible level of safety and peace of mind throughout your pet’s journey.
Do you offer consultations?
Consultations are particularly valuable for international relocations, complex airline itineraries, multi-pet households, destination-specific import requirements, and situations where owners plan to travel with their pets themselves. During the consultation, we review your itinerary, documentation requirements, airline options, timing considerations, and potential challenges to help ensure a smooth journey.
What areas do you serve?
Cabin Companions provides pet transportation throughout the United States and internationally.
We regularly coordinate domestic relocations, cross-country pet transportation, owner-assisted travel, and international moves to destinations across Europe, Asia, Canada, Mexico, and beyond. Because every journey is customized, we can often assist with routes and circumstances that fall outside traditional transportation services.
If you’re unsure whether we can help with your specific destination, we encourage you to reach out. We are happy to discuss your travel plans and explore available options.
DOMESTIC PET TRANSPORTATION
Questions About Domestic Pet Travel
Learn more about in-cabin flights, private ground transportation, travel logistics, and what to expect when moving your pet within the United States.
How much does domestic pet transportation cost?
Domestic pet transportation costs vary depending on your pet’s size, destination, travel method, and timeline. Most Cabin Companions domestic journeys start at $2,500, though longer routes, multiple pets, large dogs, or last-minute travel may fall outside that range.
Unlike many transportation services, every Cabin Companions journey is fully customized. We consider your pet’s needs, travel preferences, airline availability, and overall logistics to create the safest and most comfortable travel experience possible. During your consultation, we’ll provide a personalized quote based on your specific route and circumstances.
Can my pet fly in the cabin?
Many cats and small dogs can travel safely in the cabin, provided they meet airline size and carrier requirements. In-cabin travel is often the preferred option because your pet remains with a dedicated escort throughout the journey rather than traveling separately in cargo.
Airline requirements vary, and factors such as carrier dimensions, pet size, destination, and aircraft type can all affect eligibility. Cabin Companions specializes in in-cabin pet transportation and can help determine whether your pet qualifies for cabin travel and identify the best airline options for your journey.
I have more than one pet. Can you travel with me?
Absolutely. Many of our clients relocate with multiple pets and discover that airline restrictions make it difficult or impossible for one person to travel with every animal in the cabin.
Cabin Companions can travel alongside you, allowing your pets to remain in the cabin while staying within airline pet limits. Depending on the airline and route, this may mean one of our escorts accompanies one or more of your pets while you travel with the others. We frequently assist families moving across the country or internationally who need additional support transporting multiple cats or dogs.
This approach allows pets to remain with trusted human companions throughout the journey while helping families avoid the stress and uncertainty of cargo transportation. During your consultation, we’ll review your travel plans, airline options, and the number of pets involved to determine the safest and most practical solution.
What airlines allow pets in the cabin?
Several major U.S. airlines permit pets to travel in the cabin, including United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, which are among the airlines we frequently use for domestic pet transportation.
However, airline pet policies change regularly and may vary based on route, aircraft type, destination, seasonal restrictions, and pet availability limits. Rather than relying on general airline policies, we evaluate each journey individually and identify the best available options based on your pet’s specific needs and travel plans.
How far in advance should I book pet transportation?
We recommend contacting us as early as possible, especially during busy travel seasons when airline pet spaces may be limited.
For most domestic relocations, booking a a minimum of several weeks in advance provides the greatest flexibility and access to preferred flight options. That said, we also assist with urgent and time-sensitive relocations whenever possible. If you need help quickly, don’t hesitate to reach out—we may still be able to accommodate your timeline.
Can you transport large dogs?
Yes. While many small pets can travel in the cabin, larger dogs often require a different transportation approach.
For many large-breed, senior, anxious, or special-needs dogs, private ground transportation provides a safer and more comfortable alternative to air travel. Our team can evaluate your pet’s size, temperament, medical considerations, and destination to recommend the most appropriate transportation method.
Do you provide door-to-door service?
In many cases, yes. Cabin Companions frequently coordinates door-to-door pet transportation, including pickup from your home and delivery directly to your pet’s new destination.
Depending on the route, this may involve private ground transportation, airport transfers, overnight accommodations, or a combination of services. Our goal is to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible for both pets and their families.
What happens if a flight is delayed or canceled?
Travel disruptions occasionally occur, but our team plans extensively for these situations. If a delay, cancellation, or schedule change affects your pet’s journey, we immediately begin coordinating alternative arrangements and communicate with you throughout the process.
Because your pet is accompanied by a dedicated travel escort, there is always someone responsible for their care during unexpected disruptions. We prioritize your pet’s safety, comfort, and well-being while working to get them to their destination as efficiently as possible.
Can I track my pet during travel?
Yes. Communication is one of the things that sets Cabin Companions apart from many traditional transportation services.
Throughout the journey, you’ll receive updates, photos, and messages so you always know how your pet is doing. Many trips also include AirTag tracking for additional peace of mind. Our clients never have to wonder where their pet is or who is caring for them—we keep you informed every step of the way.
Will my pet be alone during the journey?
No. One of the core principles of Cabin Companions is that pets should never feel like cargo.
Whether traveling by air or ground, your pet is accompanied and cared for throughout the journey. Our escorts monitor your pet’s comfort, provide water and bathroom breaks when appropriate, and ensure they receive the attention and care they deserve. We treat every pet as if they were our own.
Can you transport puppies and kittens?
Yes. We regularly assist with the transportation of puppies and kittens, including breeder deliveries, adoptions, and family relocations.
Young pets often require additional planning, particularly regarding vaccination schedules, age requirements, airline policies, and travel readiness. Our team can help determine the safest timeline and transportation plan based on your pet’s age and individual needs.
INTERNATIONAL PET RELOCATION
Questions About International Pet Relocation
Learn about international pet travel requirements, health certificates, destination-specific regulations, and how Cabin Companions helps families relocate pets around the world.
How much does international pet relocation cost?
International pet relocation costs vary significantly depending on the destination, airline availability, travel timeline, number of pets, and documentation requirements. Most international journeys begin around $6,500, with more complex relocations requiring additional planning and coordination.
Unlike standard pet shipping services, Cabin Companions provides personalized support throughout the relocation process. We help families navigate paperwork, travel logistics, airline requirements, health certificates, and destination-specific regulations while ensuring pets remain safe and comfortable throughout the journey.
How far in advance should I start planning an international move?
We recommend beginning the planning process as early as possible. While some destinations can be coordinated within a few weeks, others require months of preparation due to vaccination waiting periods, import permits, health certificate requirements, or limited airline availability.
Starting early provides the greatest flexibility and helps avoid last-minute complications. International consultations are often the best first step for understanding your destination’s requirements and building a realistic timeline.
What documents are required for international pet travel?
Documentation requirements vary by country and may include a microchip, rabies vaccination, health certificate, import permit, laboratory testing, parasite treatments, or other destination-specific requirements.
Because every country has different regulations, there is no universal set of documents that applies to every journey. Cabin Companions helps families understand exactly what is required for their destination and develops a timeline to ensure all requirements are completed correctly before departure.
Can my pet travel internationally in the cabin?
Many cats and small dogs can travel internationally in the cabin, though eligibility depends on factors such as airline policies, destination requirements, carrier dimensions, and your pet’s size.
Cabin Companions specializes in international in-cabin pet travel whenever possible. We carefully evaluate airline options and routing opportunities to maximize the likelihood that your pet can remain with a dedicated human companion throughout the journey rather than traveling as cargo.
Do you help with health certificates and USDA endorsements?
Yes. Health certificates are one of the most important components of international pet travel, and many destinations require USDA endorsement before departure.
We help clients understand the timing requirements, coordinate with their veterinarian, review documentation, and ensure all required paperwork is completed correctly. While we do not provide veterinary services ourselves, we guide families through the process and help avoid many of the common mistakes that can delay travel.
Can you relocate pets to Europe?
Absolutely. Europe is one of our most common destinations, and we regularly assist families relocating pets to countries throughout the European Union.
Depending on the destination, requirements typically include a microchip, valid rabies vaccination, and an endorsed health certificate. We help coordinate the entire process and have experience assisting families relocating to destinations throughout Spain, France, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, and beyond.
Can you relocate pets to Asia?
Yes. We have extensive experience coordinating pet relocations to destinations throughout Asia, including Thailand and other countries with more complex import requirements.
Asian destinations often require additional planning, specific routing strategies, or destination-specific documentation. Because requirements vary significantly by country, we develop a customized relocation plan for each family to ensure all regulations are satisfied before travel.
Can you relocate pets to the United Kingdom?
Yes. The United Kingdom presents unique challenges because airlines do not permit pets to arrive in the UK in the cabin.
To help families avoid cargo transportation whenever possible, Cabin Companions often utilizes alternative routing strategies through Ireland, followed by ferry and rail travel into the UK. Every journey is different, but we work closely with families to identify the safest and most practical options based on their specific circumstances.
What if my pet doesn’t qualify for in-cabin travel?
Not every pet is eligible for in-cabin transportation due to airline restrictions, size limitations, destination requirements, or medical considerations.
When in-cabin travel is not possible, we work with families to evaluate alternative transportation options, including private ground transportation, owner-assisted travel, or other solutions appropriate for the specific journey. Our goal is always to identify the safest and least stressful option for both pets and their families.
Can you travel with me and my pet?
Absolutely. Many international clients prefer to travel with their pets but need additional assistance navigating airport procedures, multiple pets, complex itineraries, or international paperwork.
In these situations, a Cabin Companions escort can travel alongside you, helping manage logistics and providing additional support throughout the journey. This option is particularly valuable for families traveling with multiple pets or relocating internationally for the first time.
Do you assist with destination-specific import requirements?
Yes. Every destination has its own regulations, timelines, and documentation requirements. Understanding those requirements is one of the most important parts of a successful international relocation.
Our team researches destination-specific regulations, develops customized preparation timelines, and helps families understand exactly what will be required before departure. This guidance can significantly reduce stress and help prevent costly mistakes during the relocation process.
What happens if travel requirements change before my move?
International pet travel regulations occasionally change, sometimes with little notice. Airline policies can also change throughout the planning process.
Because we closely monitor requirements and remain actively involved throughout the relocation timeline, we can help families adapt when changes occur. If a regulation, airline policy, or documentation requirement changes before your departure, we’ll work with you to identify solutions and adjust the travel plan as needed.
PRIVATE GROUND PET TRANSPORTATION
Questions About Long-Distance Ground Travel
For some pets, flying isn’t the best option. Learn when private ground transportation may be the safest, most comfortable, and least stressful way to relocate your pet.
When is private ground transportation a better option than flying?
While many pets travel safely by air, some animals are simply better suited for ground transportation. Senior pets, large dogs, anxious travelers, pets with medical concerns, and animals that don’t qualify for in-cabin travel often benefit from the flexibility and personalized care that private ground transportation provides.
Ground transportation allows us to travel at your pet’s pace, provide frequent breaks, maintain consistent routines, and avoid many of the stresses associated with airports and airline travel.
Can you transport large dogs?
Yes. Private ground transportation is often the preferred solution for large dogs that exceed airline cabin limits or may not be good candidates for air travel.
Our team regularly transports large-breed dogs across the country and can customize the journey based on your pet’s size, age, temperament, and individual needs. We work to create a comfortable travel experience while ensuring your dog receives attentive care throughout the trip.
Can senior pets travel by ground?
Absolutely. Many senior pets are excellent candidates for private ground transportation.
Ground travel allows for greater flexibility, more frequent rest stops, easier medication schedules, and a less stressful environment than many airline journeys. We frequently assist senior pets with mobility limitations, chronic medical conditions, or age-related concerns and can tailor the travel plan to accommodate their specific needs.
Do you provide door-to-door ground transportation?
Yes. Most of our private ground transportation services are fully door-to-door.
We pick your pet up directly from your home and deliver them safely to their destination. This eliminates the need for airport drop-offs, airline check-ins, and additional transfers while providing a more convenient and seamless experience for both pets and their families.
How often do pets get breaks during ground transportation?
Every journey is customized based on the pet’s needs, but regular breaks are an important part of our ground transportation process.
Dogs receive opportunities for exercise, bathroom breaks, hydration, and rest throughout the journey. We carefully monitor each pet and adjust schedules as needed to ensure they remain comfortable and well cared for during long-distance travel.
Can you transport anxious or reactive dogs?
Yes. Many of the dogs we transport have anxiety, reactivity, or other behavioral challenges that can make traditional transportation options difficult.
Because our ground transportation services are private and personalized, we can often create a calmer, lower-stress environment than would be possible in airports, cargo facilities, or crowded public settings. Before travel begins, we’ll discuss your dog’s triggers, routines, and behavioral needs to develop the safest and most comfortable travel plan possible.
How long can a ground transportation journey take?
The length of a ground transportation journey depends on the distance involved, weather conditions, and your pet’s specific needs.
For longer relocations, we build realistic schedules that prioritize your pet’s comfort rather than simply reaching the destination as quickly as possible. Rest stops, overnight accommodations, exercise breaks, and routine care are all factored into the travel plan when appropriate.
Can you transport multiple pets together?
Yes. We frequently assist families relocating multiple pets, including combinations of cats and dogs.
Traveling together can often reduce stress for bonded pets and simplify the relocation process for their families. We’ll evaluate each pet’s individual needs, personalities, and travel requirements to determine the safest and most comfortable transportation arrangement for everyone involved.
Will my pet be traveling with other animals?
No. Cabin Companions provides private, personalized ground transportation. Your pet is not placed in a crowded cargo van with dozens of other animals making multiple pickups and deliveries across the country.
Instead, your pet travels with a dedicated Cabin Companions escort in a clean, climate-controlled vehicle designed to prioritize comfort, safety, and individualized care. This allows us to maintain your pet’s routine, provide personalized attention throughout the journey, and adjust travel plans based on their specific needs.
For many pets—particularly seniors, anxious travelers, reactive dogs, or animals with medical considerations—this private transportation model provides a significantly calmer and less stressful experience than traditional commercial pet transport services.
PET SAFETY & CARE
Questions About Your Pet’s Comfort, Safety & Well-Being
Learn how we keep pets safe during travel, what to expect during the journey, and how we help reduce stress for both pets and their families.
Is my pet ever left alone during the journey?
No. One of the core principles of Cabin Companions is that pets should never be treated like cargo. Throughout the journey, your pet remains under the direct supervision of their dedicated travel escort whenever possible.
Whether traveling by air or ground, we continuously monitor your pet’s comfort, safety, and well-being. If overnight accommodations or unexpected travel disruptions occur, your pet stays with their escort and continues receiving attentive care.
How do you keep pets safe during travel?
Every Cabin Companions journey is carefully planned with safety as the top priority. We use airline-compliant carriers, secure harnesses and leashes when appropriate, zipper locks, GPS tracking options, and detailed travel protocols designed to minimize risk.
Before travel begins, we review your pet’s medical history, behavioral needs, and travel requirements to ensure we are fully prepared. Throughout the journey, our escorts monitor your pet closely and remain focused on their comfort and safety.
Do you use sedatives or tranquilizers during travel?
Every pet is different, which is why we encourage families to discuss travel-related anxiety and medication options with their veterinarian before the journey. We regularly work alongside veterinarians to help determine the safest and most appropriate approach for each pet based on their age, health, temperament, and travel plans.
In many cases, there are safe medications, supplements, pheromone products, or behavioral strategies that can help reduce stress and make travel more comfortable. Our team is happy to share our experience, coordinate with your veterinarian, and help you develop a travel plan that prioritizes both safety and comfort. Any medications administered during travel are always done according to your veterinarian’s instructions.
Can my pet receive medication during the journey?
Yes. We regularly assist pets with routine medications and special care requirements.
Before travel, we’ll discuss your pet’s medication schedule, dosage instructions, and any special considerations. Our goal is to maintain your pet’s normal routine as closely as possible while ensuring they remain comfortable throughout the journey.
Can you travel with senior pets?
Absolutely. Senior pets often benefit from the personalized attention and individualized care that Cabin Companions provides.
We frequently assist older pets with mobility limitations, chronic medical conditions, anxiety, or other age-related concerns. Because every journey is customized, we can often adjust travel plans, routing, and schedules to better accommodate your pet’s specific needs.
What happens during a layover?
During layovers, your pet remains with their escort. Depending on the airport, routing, and timing, we may provide opportunities for water, bathroom breaks, stretching, or quiet rest periods.
Layovers are carefully considered when planning each itinerary, and we work to minimize unnecessary stress while ensuring your pet remains comfortable throughout the journey.
What happens if my pet has an accident during travel?
Accidents can occasionally happen, particularly during long journeys or periods of stress. Our escorts travel prepared with cleaning supplies, absorbent pads, spare bedding, and other essential items to handle these situations quickly and discreetly.
We prioritize your pet’s comfort and dignity while ensuring they remain clean, comfortable, and cared for throughout the remainder of the journey.
My pet is anxious. Can you help?
Many of the pets we transport experience some level of travel anxiety. Our team is experienced in working with shy, nervous, reactive, and first-time travelers.
Before the journey, we’ll discuss your pet’s personality, routines, triggers, and coping strategies. We use low-stress handling techniques, maintain consistent routines whenever possible, and work closely with pet parents to create a travel plan tailored to their pet’s needs.
Will I receive updates during the trip?
Yes. Communication is one of the things that sets Cabin Companions apart from many traditional pet transportation services.
Throughout the journey, you’ll receive regular updates, photos, and messages so you always know how your pet is doing. We understand how emotional pet travel can be, and we believe families deserve transparency and peace of mind every step of the way.
PRICING, CONSULTATIONS & GETTING STARTED
Questions About Planning Your Pet’s Journey
Learn what to expect when working with Cabin Companions, how consultations work, and how to begin planning your pet’s relocation.
What happens after I contact Cabin Companions?
Every journey begins with a conversation. After you contact us, we’ll learn more about your pet, destination, travel timeline, and any special considerations that may affect the journey.
Depending on your needs, we may recommend a consultation, provide preliminary guidance, or begin developing a customized transportation plan. Our goal is to understand your situation fully before recommending the safest and most practical travel solution.
Do I need a consultation before booking transportation?
Not always. Many domestic transportation services can be quoted and planned without a formal consultation.
However, consultations are often recommended for international relocations, multi-pet households, complex travel itineraries, destination-specific import requirements, or situations where families would benefit from detailed planning support before making travel arrangements.
What does a consultation include?
Our consultations are designed to provide expert guidance tailored to your specific situation.
During the consultation, we may review destination requirements, airline options, health certificate timelines, travel logistics, documentation requirements, carrier selection, and overall relocation strategy. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and receive personalized recommendations based on your pet, destination, and travel goals.
What if I only need help with planning or paperwork?
That’s perfectly fine. Not every family requires full transportation services.
Many clients work with Cabin Companions for consultation and planning assistance only. Whether you need help understanding international requirements, reviewing travel plans, selecting airlines, or navigating health certificate requirements, we’re happy to provide guidance and expertise even if you plan to travel with your pet yourself.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes. Transportation services typically require a deposit to reserve travel dates and begin planning arrangements.
Specific payment schedules may vary depending on the type of service being provided, destination requirements, and travel timeline. We’ll review all pricing and payment details with you before any services are booked.
How far in advance should I contact Cabin Companions?
The earlier, the better. Advance planning provides greater flexibility, more airline options, and additional time to address documentation requirements or unexpected challenges.
That said, we understand that life doesn’t always provide months of notice. If you’re facing a time-sensitive relocation or unexpected travel situation, we encourage you to reach out. We may still be able to help.
Why hire a professional pet transportation service?
Pet transportation involves far more than simply booking a flight. Airline policies, health certificates, international regulations, carrier requirements, travel logistics, and unexpected disruptions can quickly become overwhelming.
Working with an experienced pet transportation professional can help reduce stress, avoid costly mistakes, and provide peace of mind throughout the journey. Whether you’re relocating across the country or around the world, our goal is to help ensure your pet’s travel experience is as safe, comfortable, and seamless as possible.
What makes Cabin Companions different from other pet transportation services?
Cabin Companions specializes in personalized pet transportation with a strong emphasis on communication, safety, and compassionate care. We do not operate as a marketplace or simply match clients with independent contractors.
Instead, we work directly with families to create customized travel plans and provide hands-on support throughout the journey. From private ground transportation and domestic travel to complex international relocations, every pet receives the individualized attention they deserve.
READY WHEN YOU ARE
Still Have Questions?
Every pet, destination, and relocation is unique. If you don’t see your question here, we’d be happy to help.
USDA Certified & Fully Insured • In-Cabin & Ground Transport
START YOUR JOURNEY
Schedule a Consultation
No obligation consultation • Domestic & International
