I'm flying with my pet internationally. What paperwork or health certificate do I need to complete?
Consult the USDA APHIS Pet Travel website for specific information on the United States and other foreign countries.

I'd like my pet shipper to arrange for my pet to be cared for at The ARK if it is traveling by air cargo or as checked baggage (underneath a passenger plane). How do I arrange for this?
If your pet has a layover at JFK or its final destination is JFK, have your shipper contact The ARK so we can make a reservation. If your pet is departing JFK, contact your shipper to find out the best way to incorporate our pre-flight services.

How do I know if my pet crate is adequate for flying?
Airlines require a high quality, regulated size crate so that your animal can move around comfortably. It must be constructed of a durable material, with a functioning lock mechanism. You pet must have enough room to sit, lie down, turn around, and stand up in normal positions with an additional 3-4 inches above their head. Consult the IATA Traveler's Pet Corner or call/email ARK Pet Oasis for more information: (212) 973-8275 / info@arkjfk.com.

Should I tranquilize or sedate my pet for long flights?
It is not recommended to give tranquilizers to your pet when traveling by air because it can suppress the respiratory system and increase heart problems. Consult your veterinarian on the best ways to help calm your pet on the day of travel.

Is there a breed restriction for animals traveling as checked baggage or cargo?
Yes, check your airline for specific breed restrictions. Most "snub nose" or brachycephalic breeds, and "strong-jawed" breeds are commonly restricted from flying and may include: Boxer, Boston Terrier, Brussels Griffin, Bulldog breeds, Cane Corso, Chow Chow, Pitbull, Pugs, Shari-Pei, Burmese, Himalayan, Persian, Exotic Shorthair and/or includes any breed mix.

Should I leave a collar on my pet?
No. The collar should be removed and attached to the outside of the crate. This allows the animal to breathe easier and prevents injury, should anything become stuck or attached to the collar.

Will my pet have food and water during the journey?
Food is not provided on the plane due to high risk of choking. Pets are fed half the amount of food a few hours before departure (at ARK Pet Oasis). Water is provided but not overfilled as it can spill and make the pet crate wet and uncomfortable for your animal during the flight. You may attach extra food and water to the outside of the crate for your pet's journey and any special instructions.

Can my pets travel together?
It is not advised that pets travel together but in some situations USDA APHIS and IATA Live Animal Regulations will allow for (2) pets to travel together that are the same species, under six months of age, of comparable sizes, and/or weigh less then 20lbs.

Can I send personal belongings with my pet?
Items cannot be placed inside the crate with your pet. Food, water, leash and collar are all placed on the outside of the crate.

Which countries are rabies free?
Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website below for all rabies free countries: http://www.cdc.gov/importation/rabies-free-countries.html

Can I obtain my pet's health certificate at any time for travel?
No, a health certificate must be issued within 10 days of travel. Check the website below for the information you will need for your pet's health certificate: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel

Can I rent a shipping crate?
No. Your pet needs to be sized to the proper crate for his/her height and length. You can purchase one at your local pet store, online, or from ARK Pet Oasis.

Does my pet need any permanent identification to travel?
Microchipping is currently the most acceptable and permanent animal identification system. Most countries require it and ARK Pet Oasis recommends to have a microchip implanted for any animal traveling.

My pet is arriving into JFK as cargo from another country, what do I need to do upon arrival?
We highly recommend utilizing the services of a broker or ARK Pet Oasis for pets arriving into JFK internationally. Our team is able to pick up your pet as soon as s/he lands and provide immediate care and accommodation without needing to wait for customs clearance first. This will ultimately reduce the amount of time your pet is confined to it's travel crate by at least 1-2 hours. Please contact our ARK Pet Oasis team for more information on what to do: (212) 973-8275 / info@arkjfk.com