A flight nanny is a travel companion for your pets! Most often they use commercial flights to take your small cat, dog, or rabbit with them inside the plane as a carryon. By flying airport to airport you can usually have your furry family member delivered same day.
The flight nanny's job is to be a pet companion and travel buddy so they will have a stress-free and comfortable journey home to you. They will purchase the airfare for the flight and make a pet reservation with the airline. Commercial flights can only allow a certain amount of pets on board, so making a reservation in advance is important. For airport-to-airport travel the puppy or kitten will meet the flight nanny at the airport and then deliver to the family at the destination airport. Sometimes a flight nanny can also provide door-to-door service by picking the pet up outside of the airport, flying to the destination, and then hand delivering to the customer's home. You have many ways to customize the trip to meet your travel needs.
Your pet will travel comfortably in an airline approved travel bag or pet
carrier. The bag will rest under the seat in front of the flight nanny as their carryon. FAA guidelines require your pet to remain inside their carrier for the duration of the flight. But not to worry; the flight nanny is there to tend to any needs they may have while in the air. Most pets will fall asleep as soon as the plane takes off.
Why would someone need to hire a flight nanny?
Flight nanny service is great for new puppies, kitties, and bunnies that are coming home for the first time. Imagine waiting years on a waitlist for that perfect black lab from a reputable kennel across the country. You aren't able to take off work to drive the 2000 miles to pick him up yourself and so you hire a flight nanny to fly him home to you once he is 8 weeks old. This will save you DAYS of driving, time away from work/family, and all the expenses related to long-distance travel. You could fly yourself but you have never done it before and don't know all the airline policies. What type of carrier should you use to fit under the airline seats? What if your puppy cries or pees? Flying without a puppy can be stressful so you can't even image what it would be like if you had to be responsible for a little furry friend. That's where an experienced flight nanny comes in handy. They provide you a stress-free experience so all you have to do is show up to the airport to receive your bundle of joy.
Can someone fly my pet if I am moving?
Yes! Flight nannies also assist with family moves. Imagine that you have two cats that need to move with you from one state to another. You will be driving a uhaul with all of your belongings and have no space for two cats to travel with you. Not to mention how stressful moving already is! So instead, you hire a flight nanny to fly your cats to your family ahead of time. By the time you arrive with your uhaul, your cats will already be at your new home getting settled into their new life.
What are the requirements to fly my pet in cabin?
In general, your pet should be at least 8 weeks old and under 20lbs in order to fly in-cabin with a flight nanny. It is extremely helpful if they are crate-trained and have a relaxed temperament. Domestic flights on US Airlines don't usually require a vet health certificate, but a flight nanny may ask for one for insurance purposes. We make sure they have an airline approved pet carrier, a pet blanket, pet water dish and a chew toy to keep them occupied during the trip.
How much does a flight nanny cost?
The cost of using a flight nanny can vary greatly between $600-2000 for a domestic flight. Pricing is based on airfare at the time of booking and takes all of your needs and preferences into consideration. A flight nanny will offer a quote that includes all expenses and their time. In addition to the airfare and airline pet fees, this price also include that cost of supplies like pet carriers, potty pads, pop-up tents, pet blankets, etc. Sometimes it includes expenses like hotel accommodations, parking and fuel. And some agencies include travel insurance or commercial pet insurance to the final quote. It is always best to set up a consultation to talk through all of your options so you get the service that fits your budget, your schedule, and the needs of your pet.
Can you pickup my pet from my home?
Flight nannies can also offer door-to-door service! We want to solve your pet travel problems and will help you find the best way to get your pets to and from the airport for their flight. We can rent a car, take a taxi, or partner with a local driver to make it happen. Delivering your fur-baby straight to your door is the best feeling!
Can a flight nanny travel with me?
A pet travel nanny can travel with you and your pets so you never have to be separated. We often help families with multiple pets who want to all be on the same flight. Sometimes we travel with an owner and their pet as an extra hand. We will take the lead when it comes to checking in with the airline, going through security with your pet, and getting settled in on the flight. There are so many reasons why you might want a pet travel companion to join you on your move or vacation.
Do you offer international flight nanny service?
A flight nanny can travel with your dog or cat to another country. Each destination has their own policies about pet imports, but it is possible to fly with your dog or cat in-cabin to and from select locations. Start a request to learn more about international flight nanny services.
What if my dog is over 20lbs? Can he still fly in cabin?
Some commercial airlines allow pets over 20lbs if certain needs are met. This is on a case-by-case basis depending on your destination. You should start a conversation with us so we can guide you through your options. Some dogs may be able to fly on private regional jets or charter flights.
Is flight nanny service right for you? We encourage you to reach out to us here at PurplePup Pet Transportation so we can offer you a free consultation and transport quote for your next adoption or family move.
See you in the sky!
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