IATA-approved crate and airline carrier

For the cabin, most operators accept a soft, waterproof, mesh carrier that fits under the seat. A small hard-sided carrier is acceptable if it meets the same size requirements. Do not buy a “car” model that is taller than the space under the seat.

• Train the animal for two weeks: short meals in the carrier, followed by car rides.
• Absorbent bedding, with no loose bowls that spill.
• No padlock with a key. Staff must be able to open it quickly.

The IATA Live Animals Regulations require a cage in which the animal can stand upright without touching the ceiling, turn around, and stretch out. The door must be made of metal and secured with screws, not just plastic clips. The water bowl must be secured and accessible from the outside without opening the door.

• Measure the animal's length from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, its height to the ears, and the width of its shoulders.
• It adds space. A “perfectly sized” cage is too small.
• No leashes, muzzles, or small toys that could be swallowed.
• Very large dogs may require a reinforced crate. TAROM requires this for dogs weighing over 40 kg.

Have a light meal a few hours beforehand, and make sure you have water with you. It’s a long walk. Arrive earlier for check-in than you would for a flight without a pet. For checked baggage, drop it off at the counter, not at the self-service baggage drop-off area.