Traveling With Turtles: Can You Bring Them On A Plane?

Travelling with pets can be a tricky business, especially when your pet is a turtle. While cats and dogs are more common, it is not unusual for people to want to take their pet turtles with them when they travel. So, can you bring a turtle on a plane?

TSA rules and airline regulations

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not mention turtles on its website. However, according to the TSA, live turtles are allowed through security checkpoints. They must be transported in a clear, clean, spill-proof glass or plastic container with water. Most airlines do not mention turtles in their policies, so it is recommended to contact the airline before travelling to ensure that turtles are allowed on board.

Some airlines, such as Jetblue, only permit cats and dogs. Delta Airlines is known to be one of the most pet-friendly airlines, allowing different kinds of reptiles on board. However, Delta only accepts pets on flights shorter than 12 hours and requires a carrier that complies with their regulations. Frontier Airlines also allows pets on board but does not permit them on international flights. WestJet is another pet-friendly airline, allowing small animals in the cabin while larger animals must be checked. However, WestJet may have regulations for special breeds that are not suitable for certain temperatures in the air.

When flying with a turtle, it is important to have a proper carrier that complies with the airline's regulations. The carrier should be the appropriate size, well-ventilated, and have a waterproof bottom. It is also recommended to put a towel inside the carrier for the turtle to travel on a soft surface. In addition, it is important to ensure that the turtle's medical history is up to date and to obtain a medical note from a veterinarian approving the turtle for travel.

Containers for transport

When transporting a turtle on a plane, it is important to use a suitable container. While the specific requirements may vary depending on the airline, there are some general guidelines to follow. Firstly, it is recommended to use a plastic container or carrier that is breathable and has enough room for the turtle to move comfortably. The container should also have a door and small holes for easy feeding and ventilation. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the container is spill-proof and has a waterproof bottom.

To create a comfortable environment for the turtle, it is suggested to line the container with towels, preferably soaked in water, as turtles require high humidity. This will also help to prevent damage to their skin during the flight. It is also crucial to feed the turtle 4-5 hours before the flight to ensure it has the energy for the journey without contaminating the towels.

When choosing a container, it is important to consider the size and species of your turtle. The container should be big enough for the turtle to move around but not too spacious, as turtles can get hurt even with their hard shells. It should also comply with the airline's regulations, as some airlines have specific requirements for the container's size and ventilation.

Some airlines, like Delta, have extensive animal cargo services and require an approved kennel or carrier, a safe setup within the kennel, a medical note from the vet, and specific ground temperature ranges. Other airlines, like WestJet, allow smaller animals in the cabin but require bigger turtles to be checked. It is always advisable to contact the airline directly and inquire about their specific requirements for containers and carriers.

International travel

When it comes to international travel with turtles, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to check the regulations of both the airline you are travelling with and your destination country. Most airlines do not mention turtles on their websites, but some users have reported that certain airlines do allow turtles on board if they are transported in a clear, spill-proof, and well-protected carrier with water. However, other airlines have stated that turtles must be shipped with cargo and are not allowed in the cabin. Therefore, it is crucial to contact your airline and ask about their specific rules and regulations regarding travelling with turtles.

Additionally, you will need a compliant airline pet carrier or crate. If you are travelling with your turtle in the cabin, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, have adequate ventilation, a waterproof bottom, and be secure. If your turtle is travelling as checked baggage or cargo, the crate must be made of rigid material, securely assembled, ventilated on all four sides, have no wheels, and have a spring-lock door that your turtle cannot open. It is also important to ensure that your turtle's container is comfortable and safe, with enough space for it to move around.

Furthermore, it is essential to verify that your turtle is not covered by CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) regulations. While there do not seem to be any bans on the import of turtles, it is always better to be cautious and check with the relevant authorities. Additionally, some countries may have specific requirements for importing turtles, such as microchipping and vaccinations. Therefore, it is crucial to research the import requirements of your destination country.

Lastly, consider using a shipping service to transport your turtle. This can reduce the stress of travelling with your turtle and help you avoid the complicated rules of airlines. There are shipping companies that specialise in transporting reptiles and can ensure your turtle's safety and comfort during the journey.

Cargo services

While some airlines may allow turtles on board, it is always best to check with your airline before bringing your turtle to the airport. Many airlines do not allow turtles on board, and some only allow cats and dogs.

If your airline does not allow turtles on board, you may have to use a cargo service. Delta Cargo, for example, allows turtles, but requires an approved kennel, a safe setup within the kennel, a medical note from the vet, a prepaid cargo ticket, and ground temperatures at each stop to be within a certain range. UPS and FedEx also offer reptile transportation.

Salmonella risk

Turtles are known to carry Salmonella, a common gastrointestinal illness-causing bacterium. This bacterium is shed in contaminated water or food and has nothing to do with salmon. Reptiles, including turtles, are known to carry Salmonella as part of their normal gastrointestinal flora, and they do not suffer any disease as a result. However, Salmonella can cause severe illness in humans, especially in young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.

Salmonella infections from turtles are not uncommon, and basic hygiene is essential to prevent them. The most important precaution is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling a turtle or its habitat. It is also crucial to supervise young children handling turtles and ensure they do not put their hands in their mouths or kiss the turtle. Additionally, it is recommended to keep turtles out of homes with children under five or individuals with weakened immune systems.

Turtles can have Salmonella germs on their bodies and in the water they live in, even when they appear clean and healthy. The germs can also contaminate surfaces and containers that house turtles, such as cages, aquariums, and terrariums. Therefore, it is important to clean turtle habitats outside the home whenever possible and to avoid keeping turtles in areas where food or drinks are prepared or stored.

The risk of contracting Salmonella from turtles is real, but proper handling and care can significantly reduce the chances of infection. While most people are not at high risk of serious illness, it is crucial to be aware of the potential dangers and take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your turtle.

Frequently asked questions