The world of air travel has long catered to human passengers, with airlines and airports continuously evolving to enhance comfort, efficiency, and safety. However, for the growing number of pet owners who consider their dogs as family members, the ability to travel safely and securely with their pets is paramount.

The transportation of dogs by air is a complex and carefully regulated process that requires a dedicated infrastructure and expert handling. 

One such facility is The ARK at JFK – a state-of-the-art animal health, reception, and quarantine facility located at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. It provides equipment, vehicles, and a range of services to ensure the  wellbeing of in-transit animals, from pets to horses to commercial shipments.

“The ARK at JFK is a game-changer in animal transportation,” Kiera Mejia, Director of Sales & Marketing at The ARK, explained.  “Our direct access to the cargo areas and terminals allows us to navigate the airport quickly, reducing stress for the animals and ensuring they reach their destinations in the best possible condition.”

Canine cargo

Transporting dogs by air requires unique processes, particularly when navigating the labyrinth of regulatory, security, and logistical requirements. For many pet owners, shipping a dog is a one-time event, not a routine necessity. As such, the intricacies of the process, including timing, cost, and schedule realities, can come as a surprise.

One of the most significant challenges is dealing with factors beyond human control, such as weather conditions, mechanical issues, and flight cancellations. These unforeseen circumstances can cause delays and complicate the transportation process.

“Many pet owners are unaware of the complexities involved in transporting a dog by air,” Kiera explains. “It’s not just about getting the dog on a plane; it’s about ensuring that all regulations are met and that the animal is comfortable and safe throughout the journey.”

Comfy conditions

The ARK at JFK places the safety and security of any type of pet or small animal at the heart of its operations. The facility is equipped with advanced amenities to ensure that animals have a comfortable and stress-free stay. The ARK Pet Oasis provides a tranquil environment where pets can relax before or after their flights, while the dedicated quarantine facility ensures that any health risks are effectively managed. 

In addition to providing physical comfort, The ARK also prioritises clear communication and tracking. Pet owners are kept informed about their companion’s status throughout the journey, providing peace of mind and ensuring that any issues can be promptly addressed.

“Our staff is highly trained and experienced in animal handling, and we have strict biosecurity protocols in place to prevent the spread of disease,” Kiera emphasised.

Adapting to new regulations

The recent changes in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requirements for dogs entering the USA from high-risk countries have introduced new challenges for facilities like The ARK. As the only CDC Animal Care Facility (ACF) in New York, The ARK is expecting to see a significant increase in the volume of foreign vaccinated dogs entering the country (from high-risk rabies countries). The new regulations require all dogs entering the USA to be at least six months old, have an ISO-compliant microchip, and meet strict documentation requirements before entry is granted.

The ARK is expanding its facilities and working closely with airlines and ground handlers to ensure that the new processes are implemented smoothly. This includes transforming an area of the facility to service dogs travelling from high-risk countries and establishing clear agreements with airlines to identify responsibilities and protocols.

The ARK at JFK employs a coordinated and meticulous approach to ensure a smooth process under the new CDC requirements by actively collaborating with airlines, pet owners, and government agencies. This involves close communication and detailed planning with all parties involved to meet stringent health and safety standards.

“We anticipate a significant increase in the number of dogs arriving from high-risk countries,” Kiera continued. “To handle this, we are increasing our kennel capacity and working with the JFK aviation community to ensure that the new regulations are met without delays.

“The key to our success is our ability to collaborate closely with airlines, pet owners, and government agencies,” concludes Kiera. 

“By working together, we can ensure that every dog that passes through The ARK receives the best possible care, no matter where they are coming from or where they are going.”

Inspection and emergency care

Dogs travelling from a high-risk country are required to have a reservation with the CDC Animal Care Facility at their port of entry. All documents are reviewed in advance to confirm the dog meets entry requirements. 

Upon arrival, the dog will be collected from the airline and brought to ARK Pet Oasis for post-flight care and veterinary inspection.

“We have strict biosecurity protocols in place to prevent the introduction and spread of disease. This involves cleaning and disinfection of our kennel, walkways, outdoor relief area, and bowls/blankets/etc. We segregate animals that display any signs of illness. For reservations, we require that dogs be vaccinated against a variety of diseases and viruses to ensure that they do not become ill while in transit,” Kiera noted.

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