Temperature restrictions for pets in cargo exist to keep animals safe when the weather along their journey is too hot or too cold. While it can feel tricky to navigate, understanding these rules and planning ahead can help ensure your pet travels comfortably and safely.

Why Temperature Restrictions Exist

Cargo holds are pressurized and temperature-controlled in flight, but pets are still exposed to outside weather during loading and unloading in the cargo area or on the tarmac.

Without limits, extreme heat can cause heatstroke and dehydration, and cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia. Even short exposure during loading or layovers can be harmful if temperatures are outside a safe range.

General Rules

Most airlines follow industry guidelines for pet safety. According to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), live animals shouldn’t be exposed to temperatures above 85°F (29.5°C) or below 45°F (7.2°C) for more than 4 hours total.

If airline holding areas can’t consistently stay within that range, pets usually won’t be accepted for cargo travel, whether pets are flying unaccompanied or on the same ticket as their owners.

During loading and unloading, exposure outside that range should not exceed 45 minutes. Sedatives or tranquilizers are strictly prohibited, as they increase risk during temperature stress.

Some airlines allow pets to fly in colder temperatures (20°F-44°F) with a vet-issued acclimation certificate at check-in, but many carriers suspend travel during extreme heat or cold.

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Restrictions by Major Airlines

Airlines that allow pets in cargo follow strict temperature rules to keep animals safe:

Alaska Airlines (Pet Connect): Temperatures at departure and arrival must be between 45°F-85°F. They allow possible exceptions down to about 20°F with a certificate of acclimation.
American Airlines Cargo: Ground temperatures must stay between 45°F and 85°F. Cargo travel for pets to and from Las Vegas, Phoenix, Tucson, and Palm Springs is paused from May 1 to September 30.
Hawaiian Airlines: Pets aren’t accepted in cargo during their seasonal embargo (April 15 to Oct. 15) from several hot-weather U.S. airports. Pets traveling as checked baggage must be in 20°F-85°F conditions for the duration of their flight. Health certificates or acclimation letters are required for temps between 20°F-45°F.
Lufthansa Cargo: While Lufthansa doesn’t publish temperature limits for all pets, its transport rules include restrictions for snub-nosed breeds. Brachycephalic breeds, like pugs and bulldogs, are only allowed if temperatures at departure and destination airports stay below about 80°F.

Note: Airline policies can change seasonally or by aircraft type. Always confirm with the airline before booking.

How These Guidelines Are Enforced

Airlines closely monitor the forecast temperatures for every part of a pet’s journey. If temperatures fall outside safe ranges at departure, during connection flights, or at the destination, pets may be denied boarding or travel may be delayed or rerouted.

Many airlines also put seasonal embargoes in place during the peak summer months and winter. Even if temperatures are borderline acceptable, carriers may pause pet cargo travel altogether to avoid the risk of heat exposure, cold stress, or unexpected delays on the day of travel.

Airline staff ultimately have the last word about transport if weather conditions could put a pet’s well-being at risk, even if temperatures are within a safer range.

FAQs

Airlines monitor weather and temperature for every segment of your pet’s journey, use pressurized and ventilated cargo holds, and require kennels to meet safety standards. Staff can deny boarding or reroute pets if conditions won’t keep your pet safe.

Airlines keep pets safe in the cargo hold by using temperature-controlled, pressurized, and ventilated areas. Pets travel in secure kennels, and auxiliary heating or cooling is used as needed. Working with a pet shipping service can help minimize any risk.

Small comfort items, like a blanket or a piece of clothing with your scent on it, are usually fine for dogs in cargo. Airlines won’t allow your dog to travel with toys or objects that could break apart and become a choking hazard. Always double-check the airline’s rules before packing.

Tailwind Provides Peace of Mind

You can help ensure your pet flies safely by asking the airline about temperature limits, seasonal embargoes, and acclimation letters. Avoid summer or winter travel, and check the weather along your pet’s route, whether it’s their first time or they’re a pro at international travel.

Consider working with an experienced pet shipper to navigate restrictions and plan around extreme conditions. When you’re ready to start planning your pet’s journey, we can help you figure out the best options and costs.

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Temperature Restrictions for Pets Flying in Cargo