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Washington, DC's Premier Pet Transport Solutions

Your Guide to Hassle-Free Pet Shipping in DC

Do you live in Washington, DC? With CitizenShipper, you'll be able to connect with a fleet of vetted and licensed drivers who can transport your pet to another destination in the safest and most comfortable way. Start your stress-free journey in our nation's capital today.

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Recent Washington pet transport deliveries from our marketplace

District of Columbia to other states

American Shorthair named Mao

American Shorthair Mao

Washington, DC 20036 to Los Angeles, CA

small

ship pets2669mi

$1825
Waggin’ N’ Walkin’ - Flight Nanny
Waggin’ N’ Walkin’ - Flight Nanny

5 of 5 stars

Mastiff named Bowie

Mastiff Bowie

Washington, DC 20017 to San Diego, CA

large

ship pets2659mi

$800
Paul Limback
Paul Limback

5 of 5 stars

Cavapoo named Bailey

Cavapoo Bailey

Washington, DC 20008 to Philadelphia, PA

small

ship pets140mi

$400
Donna's 5 Star Private Pet Transportation
Donna's 5 Star Private Pet Transportation

5 of 5 stars

Other states to District of Columbia

Cockapoo named Birdie

Cockapoo Birdie

Orlando, FL to Washington, DC 20036

small

ship pets846mi

$500
Lois Rapanotti
Lois Rapanotti

5 of 5 stars

Staffordshire terrier named Sasha

Staffordshire terrier Sasha

Cincinnati, OH to Washington, DC 20006

medium

ship pets492mi

$590
Deanne Degelder
Deanne Degelder

5 of 5 stars

Lab mix named NoVA

Lab mix NoVA

El Paso, TX to Washington, DC 20002

medium

ship pets1960mi

$800
Pawsitive Trailways, LLC
Pawsitive Trailways, LLC

5 of 5 stars

What do you need for pet shipping to or from Washington, DC?

pet shipping Washington, DC

Before you hire a Washington pet transport company, there are a few important steps. These tasks comply with local pet transportation law, ensure your dog or cat is healthy enough for the trip and arrives at its destination safely.

First, obtain a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection from a licensed and certified veterinarian in your city. This document must be issued within 10 days of pet travel.

Next, your pet needs a signed rabies vaccination health certificate. This must be issued within 30 days of the pet transport.

Some pet transportation companies in Washington, DC provide their own pet carriers. If they don’t, you’ll need to purchase one. The pet carrier you purchase should meet the following standards:

  • The animal should be able to stand, sit and turn around in the carrier.
  • The carrier needs adequate ventilation and a solid bottom in case of an accident. This will help your pet stay calm and not stress out.
  • The door must close securely.
  • The crate must have padded walls if you’re transporting puppies or kittens so they feel safe and comfortable.
  • If boarding a plane, ensure it meets airline pet carrier size requirements.

What determines the cost of pet shipping in Washington, District of Columbia?

It’s hard to give an exact estimate of the cost of pet transportation because of the variables:

1

Method of Transport

First, you’ll decide between air or pet ground transportation. Small animals can be checked as carry-on luggage on flights, which is the least expensive option — keep in mind you’ll need to buy a ticket for your pet as well as yourself. Larger breeds must fly in the cargo area, which can cost as much as $1,000 or more depending on the pet shipping airline’s policy.

Save money on Washington pet transport service with the CitizenShipper marketplace. Drivers bid on your transportation listing, lowering costs. Once you receive bids, read reviews and communicate directly with them to find the perfect match.

2

Timing and Distance

Washington pet transport companies charge a per-mile rate for ground transport; the further the distance, the lower your pet transport cost per mile.

The timing of the transport matters. Because summer and holidays are the busiest times of the year, pet shipping companies in Washington, District of Columbia charge a premium due to limited availability.

3

VIP Service

You can expect to pay extra for VIP service. Some transport companies in Washington, DC transport your pet alone in a pet taxi. Why is VIP service preferential?

  • VIP service maintains quarantine for young pets who aren’t fully vaccinated.

  • The transporter’s sole focus is your pet, ensuring it travels stress-free.

  • You won’t need to stress about the behavior of temperamental dogs or cats.

How to find the best pet transport service in Washington, District of Columbia?

Of course you want to hire the best pet transport service to ship your pet to or from Washington, District of Columbia. But what steps do you take to find the right Washington pet transport company?

There are many obstacles to pet shipping, whether it’s price, the age of your puppy or kitten, availability of transporters, business hours or a pet that can’t be transported via airplane.

  • It’s hard to estimate the cost of pet transportation because there are so many variables.

  • Look for driver profiles on CitizenShipper that include detailed information about past experience, special equipment and professional qualifications like USDA T Registration.

  • You can discuss every trip detail with transporters using CitizenShipper’s internal messaging system.

  • Cost is always a consideration, but sometimes the best pet transporters charge more for superior service — your pet’s comfort and your peace of mind are well worth it.

Our promise: safe and happy pets at every step

Your pets are so much more than four legs and a tail — they’re members of your family and best friends for life.

We’re proud to be the nation’s top-rated and leading service for pet transportation. Our unique process matches you with a fleet of pre-screened drivers that you have the luxury to choose from.

You’ll know exactly who’ll care for your beloved pet, whether it's a puppy, kitten or a full-grown cat or dog.

protection

$1k Pet Protection Coverage

Up to $1,000 pet protection guarantee1 to give you peace of mind when booking.

vet

24/7 access to TeleVet Care

Offered through our partner FirstVet for your peace of mind.

trust

Booking Assurance Guaranteed

From quote to delivery, so you can select and ship with confidence2.

guarantee

$1k Pet Protection Coverage

Background checks3, direct contact with drivers and thousands of customer reviews at your fingertips. Because your pet should only be in the best of hands.

We are committed to building a safe, caring environment for people and animals on the road

  • We carefully background check all drivers.

  • We verify transporter addresses and contact information for additional protection.

  • Photos of drivers and their vehicles help confirm who and what to expect.

  • Detailed customer reviews provide insight and transparency to your selection process.

Pet air transport from or to Washington, DC

The closest airport to Washington, District of Columbia is Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). To get more information about air pet transport at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), you can call Phone: +1 (703) 572-2700 or visit their website. Learn more about the pet policy at American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Airlines before you book a flight. Other pet-friendly airlines include Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. If you can’t fly with your pet, consider booking a flight nanny to accompany your furry friend. Pet ground transportation is a safe and affordable alternative to air pet transport.

Discover Washington, DC

Unleash the joy of traveling with your pet in the heart of the United States—Washington, DC. The capital city not only beckons with its rich history and political grandeur but also welcomes four-legged friends with open arms. From outdoor adventures with your loyal companion to leisurely strolls in pet-approved spots, DC is a playground for pets and their parents alike. Get ready to explore parks infused with monumental views, indulge in pet-friendly cafes, and take in the city's iconic sights together. Washington, DC offers a seamless blend of urban excitement and natural spaces where pets can roam, romp, and revel in the capital's unique vibe.

The Great Outdoors

Washington, DC's plethora of green spaces and parks make it an ideal destination for jet-setting pets and their owners. Take a leashed adventure through the National Mall, where both you and your furry companion can soak in the sight of historic landmarks. For a more tranquil experience, head over to Rock Creek Park - a verdant oasis that provides miles of trails and picnic areas where your dog can enjoy the fresh air and open spaces. Don't forget to visit the Congressional Cemetery's dog-walking program, where history and play combine in a unique outdoor setting.

The city's dedication to furry friends doesn't stop there. The US Arboretum is another spectacular place to journey with your pet. With over 400 acres of flora to peruse, it's a botanical haven for leashed pets looking to bask in nature's beauty. And if you're seeking a view of the Potomac River, Theodore Roosevelt Island offers scenic trails and peaceful surroundings perfect for a calming walk with your four-legged pal.

Pet-friendly Places

DC's burgeoning pet-friendly scene ensures that your pet is as much a part of the experience as you are. Yappy Hours at various bistros and cafés let you enjoy a meal alongside your pooch, such as Art and Soul with its custom pet menu, or Barrel and Crow's patio that's always set for pet owners. For a unique day out, stop by the Dog Park at Yards Park, where canines can play in the water features and fenced play areas, while you relax with a riverside view.

Retail therapy isn't just for humans in Washington, DC. Bring your pet along to stores like Dogma Bakery, where pets can choose from an array of treats and toys. And when it's time for a little pampering, groomers and pet spas around the city offer all the services to spruce up your fur baby. The city's annual events, like the Pet Parade held in Capitol Hill, add to the pet-centric culture, ensuring that memories are made with every pitter-patter along its storied sidewalks.

Exploring the City

With your pet by your side, Washington, DC transforms into a city of endless discovery. Start with a stroll through the historic Georgetown neighborhood where cobblestone streets and charming boutiques create a delightful atmosphere for you and your pet. Or, if you'd like to share an educational experience, the outdoor exhibits of many Smithsonian museums and the Sculpture Garden are pet-friendly, provided pets are leashed and well-behaved.

Washington, DC also accommodates those wishing for a more comfortable sight-seeing experience with pets. Pet-friendly transportation options such as water taxis offer a unique perspective of the city from the Potomac River. For a little more structured adventure, several walking tours cater to pet owners, allowing you and your fur companion to uncover the mysteries and stories of the capital, creating paw-printed memories at every historic step.

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