You must contact Continental Airlines Live Animal Desk (1-800-575-3335 or 281-553-5052) directly to make travel arrangements for your pet; space is often limited.

What methods of transport does Continental Airlines provide for my pet?

  • Travel in the passenger cabin.
  • Shipped as cargo in pressurized and temperature controlled area (PetSafe program).

Does my pet qualify for travel in the passenger cabin?

Pets that meet the following qualifications can travel in the passenger cabin:

  • You are traveling within the U.S. (for information about travel to Hawaii and other international destinations, contact Continental).
  • Your pet can comfortably remain in its kennel, under the seat for the entire flight.
  • Only domesticated dogs, cats, rabbits and birds pets are allowed.
  • Animals must be at least 8 weeks old.
  • The kennel is specifically made for animal carriage and does not exceed 22in x 14in x 9in/56cm x 36cm x 23cm (length x width x height) if you are in the Economy cabin.
  • If traveling in BusinessFirst, you will need to ask Continental about kennel size requirements.
  • Your pet has all necessary health documents required by your destination (see below for more information).

Does my pet qualify to be shipped as cargo through PetSafe?

If your pet does not meet the requirements for travel in the cabin or you would like your pet to travel unaccompanied, contact Continental Live Animal Desk at 1-800-575-3335 or 281-553-5052 for more information.

What is the PetSafe?

  • Dedicated 24-hour Live Animal Desk (1-800-575-3335 or 281-553-5052).
  • Confirmed booking.
  • Weather conditions constantly monitored at all points.
  • Ability to track and trace the animal from its origin to its destination.
  • Personal handling in climate-controlled vehicles for connections when the animal will be exposed to temperatures above 85 degrees (F) for more than 45 minutes.

What are the fees associated with pet transport?

  • Fee for animal in the passenger cabin for travel to/from United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean: $125 one way
  • Fee for PetSafe: Contact Continental Airlines Live Animal Desk

What are the kennel requirements for PetSafe?

In addition to size and weight maximums, the USDA and Continental Airlines require that kennels meet the following requirements:

  • Be leak-proof and escape-proof.
  • Be properly ventilated, but not allow any part of the animal from protruding outside of the container.
  • Provide enough room for the animal to stand and turn around.
  • Be made of metal, wood, or a hard plastic/composite.
  • Contain absorbent material or litter.
  • Have functional handles on the kennel's exterior to prevent tilting and any direct contact with the animals.
  • Be closed securely, but not locked.
  • Have labels with the words "Live Animal" in letters at least 1-inch tall on the crate's top and on at least one side.
  • Have upright arrow labels indicating kennel's correct position.
  • Series 700 kennels that do not exceed 35in x 32in x 48in (length x width x height)

What health documentation is required?

While Continental Airlines does not require a health certificate for your animal, some States and Countries do require health documents. As it is the passenger's responsibility to be aware of all regulations, you should consult your veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture to ensure that your animal will comply with all requirements.

Are there any other restrictions?

Continental Airlines can refuse to transport an animal due to illness, aggressive behavior or poor kenneling.

More Information

Please contact the airline directly for information about traveling with a service animal.