Traveling to the U.S. with dogs
Effective July 14, 2021, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued a temporary suspension of dogs traveling to the U.S. from a country considered high-risk for dog rabies. As of July 14, an embargo is in effect for all dogs traveling from one of these high-risk countries to the U.S.
During a transitional period of July 14, 2021 to October 14, 2021, U.S. citizens / lawful residents on vacations or visits who left the United States before July 14, 2021 and are returning before October 14, 2021 are eligible to a CDC Dog Import Permit. Otherwise, only personal pet owners categorized as a government employee with permanent change of station or active duty orders, a U.S. citizen / lawful U.S. resident permanently relocating to the U.S., or owner of a service dog may qualify for a CDC Dog Import Permit during the suspension and are eligible to book their dog on American. All cats are eligible to fly on American during this time.
Learn more about the temporary suspensionAs pet owners ourselves, we understand that it can feel stressful to drop your best friend off for a flight. You probably have the same questions we had: Will my pet be safe? Will they be comfortable throughout their journey?
Ever since we began flying pets more than 65 years ago, our pet program ensures you have the answers you need to feel confident transporting your animal. To do that, our standards exceed industry standards to ensure the best possible travel experience for your pet.
When your pet travels with us, they are in the caring hands of our compassionate team members, who treat your pets like their own.
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Keeping your pets safe in the summer
As we approach the warm summer months, we're taking important precautions designed to keep your pets happy and healthy. In order to keep them safe, we will not accept pets when temperatures are higher than 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
View our summertime safety measures »
Warm city embargoes
Pets & animals will not be accepted for flights originating, connecting or terminating in these cities from May 1 through Sept. 30.
- Phoenix, AZ
- Las Vegas, NV
- Tucson, AZ
- Palm Springs, CA
Frequently asked questions
We know there's a ton of information to digest, so we've prepared some answers to frequently asked questions.
View FAQs »Committed to comfort and safety
A Family Reunion
When a military couple needed to move cross-country, they turned to us to protect their cats.
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Member of IPATA
We're a proud member of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association.
Learn more about IPATA »We're here to help 24/7
Your pet is special to us. We have more than 50 years of experience caring for furry friends, so please email us with any questions or concerns at LiveAnimals.Cargo@aa.com.