You’ve done the research, filled out the applications, and paid your deposit — finally, you’ve found the perfect puppy! The only issue: her breeder is a couple of states away. You could fly yourself to bring your puppy home, or you can hire an air nanny.
What is an air nanny?
An air nanny is an experienced person who escorts your new puppy to the airport and onto their flight. An air nanny then greets you at your destination and helps acclimate you to the newest member of your family.
An air nanny can only be used to transport a trained service dog or small dogs, cats, and small puppies in a carry-on kennel, as these are the only animals allowed in the flight cabin. Each airline has their own rules around the size maximum and age minimum of the traveling pet. Generally, the size limit is 15-20 pounds unless the dog is a service animal.
Why should I use an air nanny?
Flying is stressful! By using the services of an air nanny, your dog will have a qualified person with them the entire time they are in airports and on a flight.
An air nanny:
- Takes your dog for potty breaks in the airport
- Feeds and waters your puppy
- Keeps track of all documentation, including the required health certificate and vaccination records
- Updates you along the way, including informing you of flight cancellations or any other concerns
- Calms your new pet in the airport and on the flight
- Monitors their health and well-being in the airport and during the flight
- Answers questions you may have upon arrival
- Saves you a trip to a new city and back home again
How do I pick the right air nanny for my new puppy?
Before searching online for an air nanny, check with your breeder. They may have a recommendation of a company or individual they recommend.
Your breeder may also have their own air nanny on staff. If this option is available, I recommend you choose it. Not only is an air nanny who is employed by your breeder knowledgeable about your new puppy’s breed, that person has also interacted with the puppy before flight day. They may have even been there when the puppy was born! They are best equipped to take excellent care of your puppy in transit.
CRK Pomeranians has an air nanny on call who is well-versed in the breeding program; has interacted with mom, dad and all of the puppies; and is knowledgeable about any questions you might have about your new puppy on the day it comes to you.
If your breeder does not have a recommendation for you, do your own research and carefully read reviews. Talk with the company about any questions or concerns you have. Update your breeder along the way — they could have questions for the air nanny company that you may not have considered.
What should I expect when hiring an air nanny?
You should expect responsible, professional, and compassionate care from start to finish. An air nanny should be able to answer any questions you may have or be willing to put you in contact with the person who would know. An air nanny will ensure they are complying with all TSA and airline-specific regulations.
They will ask you for a 3-5 day window of when you would like to bring your new puppy home. You may be required to purchase a carrier, bowls, and toys. They may also request a refundable deposit in case of unexpected delays (caused by the airline, not the nanny) or any other unforeseen circumstance.
At CRK Pomeranians, we’ll ask for a copy of your photo ID to help our air nanny identify you and to help maintain the air nanny’s safety. We’ll provide the same to you!
When hiring an air nanny, you are responsible for the cost of their airfare and their fee. They will either charge an hourly rate or a set rate. In most cases, the air nanny will book the flight and then charge you for the flight plus their fees before the travel day. This is for a couple of reasons:
- They can choose the best airline and route for your pet’s situation
- They may have points or frequent flyer miles to bring down the cost
- They may be headed to a different destination after delivering your pet
On travel day, be available for your air nanny in case of any last-minute questions or flight delays/cancellations. Be ready at the airport to greet your new family member! The air nanny will want to take a picture of you with your pet — as a nice memento for you and also as proof to the breeder that your puppy made it to you safe and sound.
The breeder may also ask for payment in full for the puppy one week in advance of the flight. This protects everyone involved in the transaction.
Using an air nanny gives your pet an in-flight advocate. They are there to take the best possible care of your dog and ensure her safety and well-being while eliminating travel stress for you.