Top 5 Myths About Shipping Pets to the USA – Busted!

Travelling to the United States with your pet is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. To help you feel more confident about the journey, here are five common myths about pet travel to the USA – and the truth behind them.

Myth 1: “All Pets Must Quarantine for 30 Days”

Busted: The USA does not require a blanket 30-day quarantine for all pets arriving from the UK. In fact, most healthy dogs and cats travelling from the UK can enter without quarantine as long as they meet the necessary health and documentation requirements.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does have restrictions for dogs arriving from countries considered high risk for rabies. However, the UK is not currently classified as high-risk for rabies, so properly prepared pets can enter without quarantine delays.

https://www.cdc.gov/importation/dogs/

Myth 2: “You Can Ship Your Pet on Any Flight”

Busted: Not all airlines accept pets on every route. Airline policies vary depending on aircraft type, weather, breed restrictions, and seasonal embargoes. Some routes don’t accommodate animals in the hold, and many U.S.-bound flights have strict requirements for pet travel.

Using a pet travel specialist like PetAir UK ensures your pet is booked on approved routes with airlines experienced in handling animals. This reduces stress and avoids last-minute issues at check-in.

Myth 3: “A Single Rabies Shot Is Enough”

Busted: Rabies is not a mandatory requirement unless travelling to Florida, Texas or Miami from the UK* (correct 20/05/2025) , No wait period is required. Unless pets are travelling or have recently been in a rabies high risk country. https://www.cdc.gov/importation/dogs/high-risk-coun

 Cats are not currently required to have a rabies vaccination at the federal level, but some U.S. states do have local regulations, so it is wise to check the rules for your destination state or rely on a pet travel agent to confirm.

CDC rabies vaccination rules

Myth 4: “You Don’t Need a Crate if Your Pet Flies Cabin”

Busted: Even pets travelling in the cabin must be in a compliant airline-approved crate or carrier. This ensures their safety, security and comfort, as well as meeting airline and border control requirements. The crate must fit under the seat and allow your pet to stand, turn and lie down comfortably.

Most pets, especially those over a certain size or weight, cannot travel in the cabin at all and must go in the aircraft hold. PetAir UK can help you determine the correct travel crate and arrange crate training in advance to ease the journey.

Myth 5: “DIY Paperwork Is Cheaper and Just as Good”

Busted: The paperwork for pet travel to the USA can be complex and time-sensitive. Mistakes can result in your pet being denied entry, delayed or even sent back. Everything from rabies vaccination dates to veterinary health certificates must be accurate and correctly timed.

While it might seem cheaper to do it yourself, using a professional pet travel service like PetAir UK saves time, avoids costly errors and provides peace of mind that everything is handled correctly.

At PetAir UK, we handle every part of your pet’s journey to the USA – from crate fitting and documentation to airport handling and flights. If you’re planning a move or holiday and want your pet by your side, we’ll help make it happen, stress-free.

Fri Jun 13 2025