Have you ever noticed your pet panting after just a short walk on a hot summer day?
Just like us, pets can feel the effects of heat like we do but unfortunately, they have a much harder time regulating their body temperature. This becomes especially important when traveling, particularly by air.
If you’re planning to relocate or travel with your pet during warmer months, here’s what you need to know to keep them safe, comfortable, and stress-free.
Heat-Related Flight Restrictions
Did you know that airlines often restrict pet travel during peak heat hours, typically between 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM? During these times, temperatures on the ground can become unsafe even if the aircraft itself is temperature controlled. Air Canada and most airlines have temperature thresholds that restrict pet travel if temperatures exceed 26.6°C – 29.5° C at departure, arrival, or transit points.
At Worldwide Animal Travel, our travel coordinators carefully select flights to comply with airline temperature restrictions and ensure safe conditions for your pet throughout the journey.
Note:
Short/snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds (e.g., Pugs, Boxers, Boston Terriers) are often prohibited during summer due to higher risks of breathing issues and heat stroke.
Airline Temperature Embargos
In the summer months airlines and pet relocation companies do everything they can to protect your furry buddy from heat exposure during their travel journey. It is not unusual for airlines to implement strict temperature embargoes, meaning pets cannot travel if temperatures exceed safe limits at departure, transit, or arrival Seasonal embargoes suspend pet travel in the cargo hold entirely during peak summer (e.g., June 20 to September 10 for Air Canada)
This is one of the most common reasons pet travel gets delayed and why planning ahead is essential. That’s why working with our experienced pet relocation professionals at Worldwide Animal Travel ensures these factors are monitored and managed before your pet ever leaves the ground.
Proper airflow is essential during travel.
When you use an IATA-approved carrier, you can rest assure that it will have:
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- ventilation openings on all four sides
- allow consistent air circulation
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Limited airflow can increase stress and discomfort — especially on long international flights. Make sure your carrier is IATA-approved. Airlines will not accept pets if the crate does not meet IATA requirements.
Ensure Proper Hydration Setup
Your pet must have access to water throughout their journey.
Our Pet Travel Shop carries a full-line of IATA-approved carriers that are equipped with a spill-resistant deep-water dish that is attached to the inside of the crate door.
Help Your Pet Get Comfortable Before Travel
One of the best ways to reduce stress is crate training before the trip.
We recommend:
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- introducing the crate 3–4 weeks before travel
- keeping it in a familiar, high-traffic area of your home
- encouraging your pet to sleep and relax inside
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The more familiar the crate feels, the calmer your pet will be during travel.
Use the Correct Crate Size
Airlines also enforce strict temperature restrictions and safety guidelines to protect animals during flights.
For example:
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- Pets may not be accepted for travel during extreme heat or cold.
- Certain dog breeds may have restrictions depending on airline safety policies.
- Travel crates must meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards.
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If you don’t have an IATA-approved carrier, don’t worry, we can help. Through our Pet Travel Shop, we carry a full-line of IATA-approved carriers in various sizes as well as airline approved bedding and several other comfort accessories for your pet’s travel. Check out our carrier inventory.
Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds often have an even harder time flying in the heat, so let our team recommend the best crate for better airflow and breathing.
FAQs: Traveling With Pets in Hot Weather
Is it safe for pets to fly in hot weather?
Yes — but only when flights are planned carefully around airline temperature restrictions and handled by experienced professionals.
What happens if it’s too hot to fly?
Airlines may delay or reschedule pet travel to ensure safe conditions.
Can I request a specific flight time for my pet?
Yes, and it’s highly recommended to choose cooler travel windows whenever possible.
Travel With Confidence in Warmer Months
Traveling with your pet in hot weather requires extra care, planning, and attention to detail.
At Worldwide Animal Travel, we proactively monitor airline regulations, weather conditions, and routing to ensure every journey is safe even during peak summer months. This includes alerting you to any seasonal embargoes and/or changes where we will need to make accommodations for a new flight. From Canada to destinations like the UK, Europe, Australia, and Hong Kong, our team manages every detail, so you don’t have to. Because your pet’s safety always comes first, no matter the season.
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