1. Research Entry Requirements and Restrictions

Start with the CDC and USDA rules for importing pets into the United States. These typically require:

• Up-to-date rabies vaccinations
• A valid health certificate issued by a licensed vet
• Microchip documentation

While California follows federal law, it may enforce additional regulations around animal entry or quarantine. Check with your chosen airline for breed, size, or seasonal travel restrictions. PetAir UK stays informed on the latest import guidelines and can help you confirm all requirements ahead of time to avoid issues at customs.

2. Consult Your Vet

Schedule a vet visit at least one month before your departure to:

• Confirm vaccinations, especially for rabies
• Check microchip registration
• Issue a health certificate within 10 days of travel

This is also the time to discuss LA’s warm climate and your pet’s ability to manage travel stress. Your vet may recommend flea, tick, and heartworm prevention if you plan to explore outdoor areas after arrival.

3. Secure the Right Travel Crate

The crate must comply with IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards. It should be:

• Spacious enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down
• Equipped with ventilation, secure locks, and water bowls

Introduce the crate weeks before departure to help your pet acclimate. PetAir UK can recommend the correct size and make adjustments to ensure comfort and compliance with airline regulations.

4. Understand Airline Policies

Each airline servicing Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has unique animal transport rules. Policies may include:

• Cabin access for small pets
• Breed exclusions for certain snub-nosed animals
• Temperature bans during peak summer

Aim for a direct flight to minimise transfers, and contact your airline well in advance to confirm documentation, crate guidelines, and check-in procedures for international pet travel.

5. Sort Out the Paperwork

Rabies is MANDATORY in Texas & Florida and required for travel on all US-bound American Airlines flights. Although not federally required in every case, it’s highly recommended.
Your pet will need:

• A valid health certificate (issued within 10 days of departure)
• A rabies vaccination certificate
• Microchip details
• Possibly a titre test or CDC permit if arriving from a high-risk country

Carry both digital and hard copies of all documents in an organised travel folder. PetAir UK can cross-check your paperwork to ensure it aligns with both US and California entry standards.

6. Plan Your Travel Timetable

Los Angeles has a warm Mediterranean climate year-round, so:

• Choose flights during the coolest times of day—early morning or late evening
• Avoid travel during heatwaves, as airlines may restrict pet transport in high temperatures
• Opt for direct flights to LAX to reduce layovers and stress

Build in time for vet checks, crate training, and customs formalities, and avoid peak travel periods for smoother handling.

7. Consider Using a Specialist Pet Shipper

Relocating a pet to a major hub like Los Angeles can be complex. A professional shipper like PetAir UK offers:

• Flight booking and crate compliance support
• Health and customs documentation preparation
• Arrival coordination and ground handling

This service is especially helpful if your pet has medical needs or if you’re unfamiliar with US import protocols. A pet shipper ensures a stress-free and reliable experience for both you and your pet.

8. Prepare for Arrival in Los Angeles

At LAX, your pet will clear USDA and customs checks and may be held temporarily at the animal cargo facility. Prepare by:

• Having all documents easily accessible
• Bringing fresh water, a leash, and weather-appropriate gear
• Pre-arranging pet-friendly transport to avoid delays or exposure to heat

Give your pet a calm, quiet environment to recover after the journey before introducing them to their new surroundings.

9. Alleviating Pet Stress and Anxiety

International travel can be stressful for pets. To ease the transition:

• Crate train early and maintain routine before and after travel
• Ask your vet about calming products like sprays or supplements
• Use familiar bedding and toys to comfort your pet post-arrival

Introduce your pet gradually to new people, streets, and animals, and limit stimulation in the first few days as they adjust.

10. Settling into Life in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of the most pet-friendly cities in the US. To help your pet settle in:

• Register your pet with a local vet and the City of Los Angeles
• Explore pet-friendly spots like Runyon Canyon, Griffith Park, or Rosie’s Dog Beach
• Walk during cooler hours to avoid overheating and paw burns from hot pavement

With proper care, your pet will adjust quickly to the sunny, active lifestyle that LA offers.