1. Research Entry Requirements and Restrictions

Begin by reviewing pet import regulations from:

• The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
• The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

These federal guidelines cover:

• Mandatory rabies vaccination
• Health certification
• Recent travel history and import classification

Texas generally aligns with these national standards, but Dallas County may have specific enforcement or screening differences. Also:

• Confirm your airline’s entry requirements, as they may differ by carrier.
• PetAir UK recommends checking all these factors well ahead of time to avoid delays at customs or during check-in.

2. Consult Your Vet

Your vet will help ensure your pet is healthy and travel-ready:

• All core vaccinations must be current—rabies is non-negotiable in Texas.
• Your pet must be microchipped before travel.
• You’ll need a health certificate issued within 10 days of departure.
• Discuss parasite prevention, feeding schedules, and general fitness for long-haul travel.

Proper medical prep reduces stress and ensures compliance with international regulations.

3. Secure the Right Travel Crate

Choose a crate that meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards:

• It must allow your pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
• Ensure proper ventilation and a secure locking mechanism.
• For Dallas’s hot climate, consider crate cooling pads or reflective covers.
• Introduce the crate early with familiar bedding and treats to create positive associations.

4. Understand Airline Policies

Every airline has specific pet travel rules:

• Find out if your pet can travel in the cabin or must go in cargo.
• Check breed restrictions and seasonal travel limitations (especially during summer in Texas).
• Review required documentation and crate size requirements with your chosen carrier.
• Direct flights to DFW or Dallas Love Field are preferable to minimise stress and delays.

Always book early, as airlines limit the number of pets allowed per flight.

5. Sort Out the Paperwork

You’ll need the following:

• Rabies certificate – mandatory for entry into Texas and when flying with American Airlines.
• Health certificate from your vet (within 10 days of travel)
• Microchip registration
• Additional documents if your pet has recently visited a high-risk rabies country

Pro tip: keep digital and printed copies of all documents in a clearly marked travel folder. PetAir UK can review everything before you fly.

6. Plan Your Travel Timetable

Dallas has an extreme climate, especially in summer:

• Plan early morning or evening departures in warm months to avoid heat stress in cargo.
• Winters are mild, but occasional cold snaps may require extra preparation.
• Whenever possible, choose non-stop flights to reduce overall travel time.
• Build in time for vet checks, crate acclimation, and paperwork finalisation.

7. Consider Using a Specialist Pet Shipper

A professional pet shipper like PetAir UK can take care of:

• Customs paperwork and permits
• Crate selection and modifications
• Coordinating with airlines and animal handlers
• Onward travel within Texas

They’re especially helpful for pets with health needs or owners relocating under tight timelines.

8. Prepare for Arrival in Dallas

On landing at Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) or Love Field:

• You’ll retrieve your pet from cargo or oversized baggage, depending on the airline.
• USDA and customs officials may inspect your documents and your pet before release.
• In hot weather, bring a cooling mat and water. In winter, pack a warm blanket or coat.
• Arrange pet-friendly ground transport in advance, and have your home set up to welcome your pet comfortably.

9. Alleviating Pet Stress and Anxiety

Moving is stressful for pets too:

• Start crate training weeks before your flight.
• Stick to normal feeding and exercise routines.
• Ask your vet about calming sprays, supplements, or other anxiety-reduction options.
• Once in Dallas, let your pet adjust slowly to your home, room by room.
• Use familiar toys, blankets, and routines to make the space feel safe.

10. Settling into Life in Dallas

Dallas has a welcoming pet culture, but you’ll need to:

• Register your pet with the City of Dallas and a local vet.
• Explore dog parks, trails, and pet-friendly cafés and retailers.
• Walk dogs early or late in the day during summer to avoid heatstroke.
• Never leave pets in parked vehicles—Texas heat can be fatal in minutes.
• Watch for local hazards like fire ants, snakes, and heat-related illness.
• Introduce your pet to new animals, people, and spaces at a steady, comfortable pace.

With time and care, your pet will settle into life in Dallas just as you do.