Airlines

Flying Pets with Lufthansa Airlines: Your Comprehensive Guide

Planning to fly your pet with Lufthansa Airlines? You’re in the right spot! Whether it’s a cross-country move or a globe-trotting adventure, knowing their policies and requirements is crucial for comfort and safety.

Lufthansa Pet Travel Policy: Get the lowdown on rules and regs for flying with pets.
Pet Transport Options: Whether onboard or in the cargo, know what to expect.
Smooth Travels: Tips and tricks to keep your pet happy in the skies.
Costs: Understand the fees associated with pet air travel.
Additional Services: Explore special care and emergency services for pet transport.
Expert Help: Learn how our partners can make pet travel arrangements a breeze.
FAQ: Flying pets with Lufthansa Airlines

Don’t want to go through the hassle of making sure everything is in place? Contact Pet Shippers today and let one of our trusted partners handle everything.

Understanding Lufthansa Pet Travel Policy

Regulations and Requirements for Lufthansa Pet Shipping

Traveling with pets on Lufthansa means understanding a few key guidelines:

Documentation: Your pet will need the right documents. This means a health certificate, proof of vaccinations, and entry permits for your destination.
Reservation: Book your pet’s trip in advance. Space for pets is limited, so securing a spot is crucial.
Check-in: You can’t check in online or via mobile when flying with pets. You’ll have to do it at the airport counter1.
Pets in the Cabin: Lufthansa allows small dogs and cats in the passenger cabin. The total weight of the pet and its carrier should not be more than 8 kilograms. This option is ideal for pet owners who want their pets close during the flight.
Carrier Specifications for Cabin Travel: The pet carrier must adhere to specific dimensions (no more than 55 x 40 x 23 cm) and be watertight and bite-proof. This ensures the pet’s safety and comfort during the flight.
Booking Process for Cabin Travel: Pet owners must book their flight through the Lufthansa Reservations Office and inform them about the pet. A minimum of 24 hours’ advance notice is required for pets traveling in the cabin.
Pets in Cargo Hold: For larger pets or those not eligible for cabin travel (including species other than dogs or cats), the cargo hold is an option. This space is temperature-controlled and pressurized for the animals’ safety.
Breed Restrictions and Cargo Travel: Specific breeds, particularly snub-nosed pets and certain types of terriers and bulldogs have additional restrictions and must travel as manifest cargo.
Travel Crate Requirements: The crate for cargo travel must comply with International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards and include a water dish. Proper sizing for the pet is crucial.
Booking Cargo Travel: Booking for manifest cargo typically requires hiring a freight forwarder, while excess baggage bookings can be made directly with Lufthansa’s Reservation Office. In both cases, 24 hours’ notice is necessary.
Pricing Structure: For pets traveling in the cabin, pricing is based on the size concept. For cargo travel, the cost depends on either the dimensional or the volume weight of the pet and its carrier.
Unaccompanied Pet Transport: Lufthansa Cargo offers services for unaccompanied pets, primarily used for international flights. This requires setting up a cargo account, and the pricing is based on the size and weight of the shipment.

Lufthansa Pet Policy: International Travel Essential

For international trips:

Regulations vary by destination: Each country has its own rules, so you’ll need to do your homework.
Breeds: Certain breeds, especially snub-nosed ones, have restrictions due to health risks during flights2.

Lufthansa Pet Transport: What You Need to Know

Preparing Your Pet for Lufthansa Travel

Preparation is key for a smooth experience:

Get your pet accustomed to the carrier: This will help reduce stress during the journey.
Consult your vet: Especially regarding sedation and dietary adjustments for the trip.

Onboard and Cargo Holds: Lufthansa Pet Transport Options

Pets can travel in the cabin or cargo:

In-cabin: Small pets can often travel with you, given they are in an appropriate carrier.
Cargo hold: Larger pets will travel in a pressurized and temperature-controlled environment.
Comfort: Include a familiar blanket or toy in the carrier to help soothe your pet.

For more detailed and specific information, you should check the latest updates on Lufthansa’s official website or consult with their customer service to ensure you meet all the requirements for your pet’s travel.

Tips for a Smooth Pet Travel Experience

Pre-flight Preparations for Your Pet

Exercise: Give your pet plenty of exercise before heading to the airport to help them relax.
Feeding: Avoid feeding your pet right before the flight. A light meal a few hours earlier is best.
Comfort items: Pack their favorite toy or blanket to offer the smells of home.

Ensuring Comfort During Transit: Lufthansa Pet Travel

Stay calm: Your pet can pick up on your emotions, so stay composed to help them remain calm.
Check the temperature: Ensure the carrier is well-ventilated and not exposed to extreme temperatures.
Hydration: Make sure your pet has access to water, especially on longer flights.

Pet Travel Cost: by Air Cost An Overview

The cost of air travel for pets varies based on several factors:

Size and weight of your pet: Larger pets and their carriers may incur higher fees.
Destination: International travel generally costs more due to additional requirements.
Service type: In-cabin, checked, or cargo services have different pricing structures.

Additional Services for Lufthansa Pet Shipping

Flying with pets can be nerve-wracking, but Lufthansa’s additional services aim to ease this stress for both pets and their owners.

Special Care Packages and Services

Comfort Stopover: For pets on connecting flights, Lufthansa offers a comfort stopover service where pets are taken out of their carriers, fed, and walked during layovers.
Climate-Controlled Travel: Pets flying in cargo will be in a temperature-controlled environment, ensuring their comfort regardless of weather conditions.

Emergency Procedures and Contacts for Lufthansa Pet Transport

24/7 Support: Lufthansa provides round-the-clock support for any in-transit pet concerns.
Veterinary Assistance: In case of a medical emergency, Lufthansa has protocols to provide veterinary assistance for pets.
Tracking System: A tracking system allows pet owners to monitor their pet’s journey, providing peace of mind.

These services ensure that pets are not just cargo but are given the attention and care they need for a safe and comfortable journey.

How a Professional Pet travel agency can Help with your Pet’s Transportation

Struggling to find the time for your pet’s travel arrangements? This is where a professional pet travel agency can become an invaluable partner. Let them handle it.

Customized Travel Arrangements: Tailoring travel plans to meet the specific needs of your pet.
Documentation and Compliance: Ensuring all necessary documents are in order and comply with airline regulations.
Travel Crate Provision: Providing or advising on the best travel crate for your pet’s comfort and safety.
Travel Day Assistance: Assistance on the travel day, including pet check-in and pickup.
Emergency Support: Offering support and solutions in case of travel disruptions or emergencies.

Pet Shippers connects you to trusted and vetted Pet Travel Agencies across the USA