Shipping & Delivery

✈️ Transport & Out-of-State Adoptions

Love Knows No State Lines. But Safety Comes First.
At Lucky Paws Rescue Foundation, we believe that the perfect family for one of our dogs might not live right down the street. We happily accept out-of-state adoption applications!

However, because we are dealing with precious, living animals, we do not “ship” our dogs in the cargo hold of commercial airplanes like cargo.

To ensure our rescues experience zero trauma, stress, or danger on their journey home, we utilize specialized, USDA-licensed pet transporters and professional Flight Nannies. Here is how we get your new best friend safely to your arms.

🛫 Option 1: VIP Flight Nanny Service (In-Cabin)

Best for: Teacups, Chihuahuas, Yorkies, French Bulldogs, Pugs, and puppies.

For our smaller breeds and our delicate Brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs, flying in the cabin of an airplane is the only option.

How it Works: We partner with trusted, professional Flight Nannies. The nanny will pick up your adopted dog from our rescue, board a commercial flight, and keep your dog safely tucked under the seat in a soft, airline-approved carrier for the entire flight.
The Handover: The Flight Nanny will fly into your nearest major airport and meet you directly at baggage claim to hand over your new family member.
Why It’s Required for Bulldogs & Pugs: Due to their specialized breathing needs, Frenchies, English Bulldogs, and Pugs can easily overheat or suffer respiratory distress in an airplane cargo hold. They must fly in-cabin.

🚐 Option 2: Professional Ground Transport

Best for: Labrador Retrievers, Goldendoodles, Beagles, and larger adult dogs.

For our larger dogs who cannot fit under an airplane seat, we utilize highly vetted, USDA-licensed ground transport companies.

How it Works: Your dog will travel in a climate-controlled, customized transport van designed specifically for pets.
Constant Care: The drivers stop every few hours for potty breaks, water, and exercise. You will receive GPS tracking links and photo updates throughout the entire road trip!
Door-to-Door: In most cases, ground transporters can deliver your new dog directly to your driveway or a safe, nearby meeting location.

🚗 Option 3: Fly-In & Drive (or Fly) Home

Best for: Adopters who want to make a road trip out of it!

Many of our out-of-state adopters choose to come to us!

You are welcome to fly into our local airport, where a Lucky Paws volunteer will meet you with your new dog.
If the dog is small enough, you can purchase an in-cabin pet ticket and fly home with them yourself.
If it is a larger dog, you can rent a car and enjoy a scenic road trip home with your new best friend.
🩺 Health & Travel Requirements
Before any Lucky Paws dog is allowed to board a plane or transport van, they must pass a strict travel-readiness protocol:

Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI): Also known as a “Health Certificate.” Our veterinarian will examine the dog within 10 days of travel to legally clear them for crossing state lines.
Up-to-Date Vaccines: The dog must have proof of a current Rabies vaccine and all age-appropriate core vaccines.
Microchipped & Tagged: Every dog travels with a secure collar, an ID tag, and an active microchip registered to our rescue/your name.
💳 Understanding Transport Costs
Please note: Transport fees are not included in the standard adoption donation. Because we use third-party, professional pet transport services, the cost of transport is the responsibility of the adopter.

Flight Nanny Fees: Typically range from $120 to $200, depending on the price of the last-minute airline ticket and the nanny’s fee.
Ground Transport Fees: Typically range from $100 to $130, depending on the total mileage from our rescue to your state.
Once your adoption is approved, our Adoption Coordinator will happily help you get free quotes from our trusted transport partners!
Ready to welcome a dog into your home, no matter where you live?