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You and Continental are responsible for following all USDA and IATA regulations regarding the size and type of kennels utilized. You may use your own kennel or purchase an approved kennel of various sizes from Continental at all airport locations. Airline approved kennels of various sizes are also available for sale at pet supply shops.
One of the most important steps you can take to ease the stress of travel for your pet is to make sure it becomes familiar with its kennel. Purchase the kennel as far in advance as possible. Veterinarians recommend leaving the kennel door open in the house with an old sock or familiar object inside so that your pet may spend time near the kennel and perhaps venture inside on its own. Since it is important that your pet be as relaxed as possible during the flight, familiarization with the kennel is essential.
All kennels must follow these guidelines:
Type/size of Kennel
The kennel must be sturdy, properly ventilated, and, most importantly, must be large enough for the animal to freely sit and stand with its head erect, turn around, and lie down in a normal posture. To prevent accidental injury, no part of the animal's body can protrude through any openings in the kennel. For this reason, kennels made exclusively from wire are not accepted.
Super Size Kennels
Continental can transport dogs in "Giant" crates/kennels (700 series) whose dimensions do not exceed 48" L x 32" W x 35" H (121 cm X 68 cm X 89 cm). We can load these crates on most Boeing aircraft, but will need permission to alternately route any 700 kennels booked on smaller aircraft such as the 737-300 and 737-500. All bookings must be coordinated through the Live Animal Desk at 1.800.575.3335 or 281.553.5052.
Closing Mechanism
Check the closing mechanism to make sure it works properly. Do not put a lock on the kennel door. In accordance with federal regulations, your pet must be accessible in the event of an emergency.
Wheels
Continental discourages kennels with wheels on the bottom unless the wheels have a locking device. If your kennel has wheels, it is recommended that they either be removed or taped in order to prevent them from rolling in transit.
Animals per Kennel
Each kennel should contain no more than 1 adult dog or cat, or no more than 2 puppies or kittens younger than 6 months, of comparable size, and under 20 lb (9.1 kg) each. Dogs and cats cannot travel together in the same container.
Include two empty food dishes
Include two empty dishes (one for food and one for water), accessible from the outside.
Absorbent Material
The kennel must contain absorbent material or litter. (Black and white printed newspaper is a good choice. However, newspaper with colored ink or advertisements can be toxic to animals.) Please note that the use of straw, hay or wood shavings is prohibited for international shipments.
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