TSA procedure for traveling with pets through security

1. Arrival at the Airport

• Arrive early to allow enough time for going through security with your pet.
• Your pet must be in a carrier when you enter the airport, and it must remain in the carrier as you go through the airport, except when you reach the TSA security checkpoint.

2. Preparing to Go Through Security

• As you approach the security checkpoint, place your personal belongings, such as shoes, jacket, electronics, and the pet’s carrier, in the bins provided.
• Your pet’s carrier will go through the X-ray machine with your other belongings. Make sure there are no items left in the carrier, as it will be scanned like any other piece of luggage.

Important: Do not place your pet inside the X-ray machine. You will need to remove your pet from the carrier for screening.

3. Removing Your Pet from the Carrier

• Once at the security checkpoint, you’ll need to take your pet out of its carrier.
• Hold your pet in your arms or, if appropriate, walk it on a leash through the screening area. Be cautious—airports can be noisy and overwhelming for pets, so make sure they are secure in your arms or on a leash before removing them from the carrier.

4. Passing Through the Metal Detector

• You and your pet will walk through the metal detector together. The TSA officer may instruct you to walk separately if they need to inspect something.
• If the metal detector alarm is triggered, it could be due to items you are carrying or the pet’s collar, tags, or leash.
• In such cases, you and your pet may undergo additional screening, including a pat-down or a secondary inspection, where TSA officers may check the pet and any accessories (collar, leash, harness) for security reasons.

5. Secondary Screening (If Needed)

• If you or your pet set off the metal detector or if your pet cannot safely go through it, you will be subject to a secondary screening.
• TSA officers will use a handheld metal detector or conduct a pat-down of both you and your pet. This may include swabbing your hands or your pet’s collar to check for explosive residue.
• Secondary screening is usually quick and ensures no prohibited items are on you or your pet.

6. X-ray Screening of Pet Carrier and Belongings

• While you and your pet are walking through the metal detector, the pet carrier will be scanned by the X-ray machine.
• Any accessories, like toys or blankets inside the carrier, should also be removed before the carrier is placed on the conveyor belt.
• Once the X-ray scan is complete, retrieve the carrier from the conveyor belt.

7. Reuniting Your Pet with the Carrier

• After you and your pet have cleared security, place your pet back into the carrier as soon as possible. Airports can be stressful for pets, so it’s important to minimize their exposure to unfamiliar sights and sounds.
• Take a moment to ensure the carrier is securely closed before proceeding to your gate.

8. Helpful Tips for Smooth Security Screening:

• Keep Your Pet Calm: Airports can be noisy, so it’s helpful to practice handling and familiarizing your pet with its carrier before your trip.
• Practice: Before your trip, rehearse taking your pet out of the carrier and putting it back in to ensure it’s a smooth and calm process.
• Leash or Collar: Make sure your pet is wearing a well-fitting collar or harness and is on a leash, as you’ll need this when carrying or walking them through the checkpoint.
• Carry a Treat or Favorite Toy: This can help soothe a nervous pet while waiting in line or during the security process.
• Keep Documents Handy: While TSA doesn’t require specific documents, some airlines or destination locations might. Keep your pet’s vaccination records or health certificates with you.

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Key Reminders:

• Do not send your pet through the X-ray machine. They should always go through the metal detector with you.
• Service Animals: If traveling with a service animal, they are exempt from being in a carrier, but they must be leashed and under control.
• Emotional Support Animals: Regulations on emotional support animals vary by airline, and they may require a carrier depending on the policy.

By following these steps and being well-prepared, you can make the security process as smooth as possible for both you and your pet!