If you’re planning international travel and need to book pet transport with Lufthansa, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, I’ll explain everything from pricing and regulations to preparing your furry friend for the big trip. Let’s get started!
Price is usually one of the main concerns for pet owners, so let me break down the basics of how much you can expect to pay with Lufthansa Cargo.
So in total, budget 0-1000 to fly a medium-sized dog across the Atlantic when using Lufthansa Cargo. Not cheap, but much less than the cost of an extra plane ticket! Let me know if you need any price quotes.
As with any international pet transport, you’ll need to take care of certain documents and regulations. Proper preparation is key to avoiding delays or denied boarding.
When booking with Lufthansa Cargo, request an “AWB” (air waybill) for your pet. This acts as the travel ticket. You’ll also need:
I’d strongly advise confirming paperwork requirements well in advance with Lufthansa and the destination’s import rules. Missing a single form can risk major delays or denied entry with your pet. Don’t cut it close!
Even with the best-behaved pet, travel can be a stressful experience for both of you. Doing proper prep work helps ensure a smooth flight.
First, introduce your pet to a crate they’ll stay in for short periods at home. Give treats to build positive crate associations. Then practice longer durations over weeks before the big flight.
A few days before, avoid big changes to their routine, diet, or treats which could upset their system. Stick to simple, bland food that won’t cause digestive issues at altitude. You don’t want any “surprises” in the crate!
Sedation may be advised by your vet for very anxious pets, but it’s not always necessary. Some animals do fine without, so discuss pros and cons. Make sure to follow dosage instructions strictly if using sedatives during travel.
On the day of, do not feed within a few hours of dropping off. This reduces chances of motion sickness. Provide favorite toys or blankets with your scent for comfort.
Double check the crate meets dimensions listed on the Lufthansa website. Oversized containers risk being rejected at check-in. With patience and preparation, you’ll have a stress-free trip together.
Once at the airport on travel day, there are a few final steps to get Fido, Fluffy, or whichever pet safely aboard their flight.
First, check in at the Lufthansa Cargo counter well before your departure time. They may need time to process paperwork and do an health check of the animal.
Present the air waybill and all required documents listed earlier. Agents will review everything is in order before accepting the crate.
You can typically buy an extra service letting you drop the pet cargo at the plane instead of the main warehouse if connecting flights are short. It provides closer monitoring by staff.
With timing right, some airports allow owners to wait with the crate until the tarmac. This calms nerves for separation-anxious pets. Otherwise, it’s time for a sad goodbye! Trust the pros know how to handle animals best.
Reach out if you need any other airport experience tips or transport dos/don’ts. Safe travels to you and your four-legged family member!
Air cargo isn’t the only option for international pet transport. A few possibilities you may want to consider:
Pet relocation services professionally transport animals by ground in specialized vans, avoiding planes. It takes much longer but provides comforts like food/potty breaks.
For shorter hops around Europe, the Eurotunnel “Le Shuttle” car/pet train under the English Channel is a popular stress-free alternative to flying across.
If emigrating abroad, look for boat pet transport. Cruise lines or cargo ferries take pets as they slowly sail between destinations over days.
As a last resort, some owners make the very long drive themselves for complete control. But car travel has big downsides like fatigue and border hassles.
Weigh the pros and cons of each based on your situation. Air travel with Lufthansa Cargo remains the quickest global option when done right. Let me know if you need help comparing methods!
In summary, I hope this guide has answered your questions about Lufthansa pet cargo prices and options. Proper planning is key to giving your furry family member a safe trip. Please let me know if you need any other advice or assistance. I’d be happy to help further!
| Pet Type | Weight Limit | Cage Size | Vaccination Requirements | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cats | 8kg | Minimum of 1/3 of the animal’s length | Rabies, inactivated FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) | $150 – $200 |
| Dogs | 32kg | Minimum of 1/3 of the animal’s length | Rabies, inactivated distemper | $250 – $350 |
| Rodents | 200g each | Minimum of 20 x 12 x 12 cm per animal | No vaccinations required | $75 per cage |
| Birds | Varies by breed | Minimum of 20 x 12 x 12 cm per animal | No vaccinations required | $50 – $100 per cage |
If your pet exceeds the size limits for cargo, Lufthansa suggests contacting them for optional pet services. For example, you could book your large dog or cat in the cabin as “excess baggage” for an extra fee. But space is limited and regulations differ by route. Another alternative is to check if your animal qualifies as a service animal – but you’d need official documentation for that. Honestly your best bet is making reservations ASAP if requiring exceptions.
