Petmate Kennel Airline Travel Kit: What's Inside and How to Use It

Quick answer

Use the Petmate Kennel Airline Travel Kit as a pre-flight checklist: install the included bolts and zip ties to secure the kennel, attach the Live Animals stickers and ID tag, and place the absorbent pad and spill-resistant cup inside. Complete these steps at home, then re-check at the airport.

Step-by-step: using the kit before you fly

1. Check the kennel’s existing hardware: Inspect the kennel for missing or loose bolts, nuts, and washers. Compare the kit’s bolt sizes (1 inch, 1¼ inch, 1¾ inch) to your kennel’s current fasteners and replace only matching sizes. Common mistake: forcing a bolt that is too long or short, which can crack the kennel shell. If you are unsure which size fits, take the kennel to a hardware store or contact the manufacturer before flying.
2. Secure the kennel with zip ties as backup: Thread zip ties through the kennel’s ventilation slots or side panels near the door and top half, then pull snug. Do not cover ventilation openings. Checkpoint: trim zip tie tails flush so they cannot be chewed or snag.
3. Apply the Live Animals stickers and ID tag: Place both Live Animals stickers on the top and one side of the kennel where they are clearly visible. Fill out the temporary Pet ID tag with your name, phone number, and destination contact, then attach it to the kennel handle or door. Common mistake: putting the ID tag inside the kennel where it cannot be read.
4. Complete and attach the shipping identification sticker: Write your pet’s name, your contact information, and the flight or destination details on the shipping sticker, then attach it next to the Live Animals sticker. Checkpoint: photograph the completed labels with your phone in case they are damaged in transit.
5. Fit the absorbent kennel pad: Place the pad flat on the kennel floor, absorbent side up. Trim only if it bunches and blocks the door; otherwise leave it full-size for coverage. Common mistake: adding loose bedding on top, which can shift and cover the pad.
6. Fill the spill-resistant cup and secure it: Fill the cup with water and snap or twist it into the kennel’s bowl holder according to the kennel’s design. If your kennel has no built-in holder, place the cup on the kennel floor away from the door. Checkpoint: test the seal by tipping the cup over a sink before travel.
7. Do a final pre-flight check: At the airport, confirm all bolts are tight, zip ties are intact, labels are visible, and the cup is filled. Keep a photo of the completed setup on your phone. Common mistake: skipping the re-check after the kennel has been handled by baggage staff. Carry a few spare zip ties in your pocket in case one breaks during loading.

Product facts

• Petmate Kennel Airline Travel Kit: Includes a spill-resistant food and water cup, an absorbent kennel pad, two Live Animals stickers, a temporary Pet ID tag, a shipping identification sticker, 12 zip ties, 12 1¼-inch bolts, 5 1¾-inch bolts, 5 1-inch bolts, 12 washers, and 12 nuts. You get the hardware and labels needed to secure and identify a kennel in one pack, reducing prep time.