Cargo crates for Basenji and Jack Russell flying together

Flying two dogs cargo on the same flight is very doable, but each dog needs their own IATA-compliant crate — airlines won't accept them sharing, even on the same booking. Travel crates have strict requirements depending on whether the dog is in cabin or hold: cargo crates must meet IATA Live Animal Regulations, which cover ventilation, door type, absorbent bedding, and minimum size calculations based on the dog's measurements, not just breed. Airline rules also vary — some have breed restrictions, temperature embargoes, or specific approved crate lists. Getting any of this wrong means the dogs don't board. So: what breed and size are your two dogs, and which airline are you flying with?

Good — British Airways uses IAG Cargo for pet shipments and requires IATA-compliant hard-sided crates with specific ventilation on at least three sides, a solid floor with absorbent material, and live animal stickers. For your Basenji at 10kg, you'll need to measure him standing and add 10cm to his height and length to get the minimum interior crate dimensions — typically that lands around a size 300 (Medium). For your Jack Russell at 6kg, she'll likely fit a size 200 (Small). Can you give me rough measurements for each dog — height at shoulder and length from nose to tail base? That'll confirm the exact sizes before I point you to the right crates.

Perfect — those measurements confirm it. Your Basenji needs a crate with at least 53cm internal height and 70cm internal length, which puts him in a Petmate Sky Kennel size 300 (Medium). Your Jack Russell needs at least 40cm height and 55cm length, which the Petmate Sky Kennel size 200 (Small) covers. I'd recommend the same range for both dogs — the Petmate Sky Kennel is genuinely the gold standard for airline cargo travel. It's IATA-compliant, has four-way ventilation, bolt-together construction that airlines require (zip-ties only isn't acceptable for cargo), and a solid ABS floor. It comes with live animal stickers and water/food dishes that clip to the door. British Airways and IAG Cargo accept it without issue. You'll need one Medium and one Small — buy them separately so each dog has the right fit.

Yes — British Airways requires absorbent bedding on the floor, so a fitted crate pad or even a puppy pad under a thin fleece works well. Attach the water and food dishes to the inside of the door grille using the built-in clips — airlines want them accessible from outside without opening the crate. Label both crates clearly with your name, contact number, destination, and the dog's name. Freeze water in the dish before drop-off so it melts slowly en route. One more thing worth checking: Basenjis aren't on British Airways' restricted breed list, but confirm with IAG Cargo directly before booking — policies update and it's always worth a call.

Good plan. Get both crates a few weeks before travel and let each dog sleep in theirs at home — familiar smells make a real difference for a cargo journey. The Petmate Sky Kennel Medium and Small are both available on Amazon UK with Prime delivery if you need them quickly. Safe travels to all three of you.