• The Animal Transportation Association (ATA) has highlighted USDA guidance outlining enclosure requirements for dogs and cats transported as air cargo into the United States.
• The guidance covers eight key areas, including enclosure size, ventilation, labelling, handling, food and water access, cleanliness, and the number of animals permitted per crate.
• ATA encourages shippers to work with experienced member companies to help ensure safe, compliant pet transport and navigate U.S. import requirements.

The Animal Transportation Association (ATA) is reminding shippers and pet owners of the enclosure requirements that apply when transporting dogs and cats as air cargo into the United States, sharing guidance published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

According to the USDA guidance, only one adult dog or cat is permitted per enclosure. Two puppies or kittens may travel together if they are under six months old, each weighs less than 20 pounds and they are of similar size. Littermates travelling to research facilities may also be transported with their dam. The guidance sets out eight key requirements for compliant enclosures. Containers must prevent animals from extending any part of their body outside, have no sharp edges, and include securely attached food and water dishes that can be filled from outside the crate. The enclosure must also have a solid, leak-proof base or removable tray with sufficient litter where required.

To safeguard animal welfare during transport, enclosures must provide enough room for pets to stand, sit upright, turn around normally and lie in a natural position. They must also display “LIVE ANIMALS” labels, one-inch lettering and directional arrows, with food and water certification and handling instructions attached.

Ventilation is another key requirement. At least 14 percent of the wall area must be open, with one-third of the openings located on the upper half of the enclosure and ventilation provided on two opposing sides. A minimum three-quarter-inch rim is required to maintain airflow, while the enclosure must also be designed so it can be lifted without tilting or coming into contact with the animal. ATA noted that importing pets into the United States can be complex and encourages shippers to work with experienced ATA member companies familiar with the applicable transport and regulatory requirements.

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