The Hazardous Mistake Travelers Should Avoid When Taking Pets Through TSA At The Airport

By Jessica Desrosiers
A dog sits in its carrier at the airport Jennifer McCallum/Shutterstock

Traveling can be hectic, and adding a pet to the mix can make it even more stressful. There are a lot of boxes to check when preparing for the big day, such as picking out the best airline-approved pet carrier to travel with. In addition, most airlines require pets to be up to date on vaccines and have the proper travel paperwork. However, there may be one last potentially dangerous mistake you're making: sending your pet through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) X-ray tunnel.

Whether accidentally or not, a pet should never go through the X-ray scanner at a TSA checkpoint. These X-ray tunnels are designed to check luggage for potentially hazardous materials. However, small pets often fit into carriers that are about the same size as luggage, which makes it easy to think they can go right through an X-ray machine with a pet inside. In fact, the TSA has noted many instances of this happening over the years. Not only does a pet being found hold up the rest of the line, as the animal has to be removed, but it can also cause the pet severe anxiety and fear on top of the strong emotions coming from the airport's general chaos. 

Radiation exposure is also a concern when going through the X-ray scanner, as luggage scanners aren't considered safe for pets. In addition, while a single X-ray doesn't pose much risk, too much exposure over time can cause several side effects, including tissue damage and radiation-induced health issues. It's best to instead follow the proper procedures for flying with your cat or dog.

How to take your pet through a TSA checkpoint safely

A man petting his orange-and-white cat in a nearly empty airport lounge Jaime Grajales Benjumea/Getty

Whether you're flying with a puppy, adult dog, cat, or kitten, the TSA has several tips on how to safely bring your small pet through a security checkpoint. First, make sure your small pet is kept in their carrier until reaching the X-ray scanner. Once you arrive, take your pet out of the carrier, and put only the empty carrier on the belt to go through the X-ray machine. You'll want to carry your pet in your arms through the checkpoint scanner. In addition, a TSA officer may perform extra screenings by hand or direct you to a private screening room if your pet is nervous or skittish. Only when all of this is done should you reunite your pet with its beloved home away from home (its carrier). 

If you're traveling with a large pet in the cabin, such as a service animal, you'll still need to pass through a security checkpoint. Hot tips: Keep your pets on a leash at all times for the safety of not only others but also your animal, and arrive at the airport earlier than usual to ensure you have enough time to get your pet and yourself through security.

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