A new partnership between Air Canada and veterinary telehealth company Vetster provides an added level of safety for pets travelling in cargo.

Cargo pet travel always comes with its risks, such as heightened anxiety and stress, motion sickness, dehydration, and respiratory trouble. Trained Air Canada staff will now have access to licensed veterinarians, who can virtually care for any pets in need of medical assistance. After the flight, their medical files are sent to their local vet, to allow for further monitoring.

“As one of the only airlines to partner with a pet telehealth company, we are significantly enhancing the experience for passengers and their pets, providing care and comfort throughout their travels,” says Janet Wallace, managing director of operational excellence and transformation at Air Canada Cargo.

The service is currently operating on select domestic and international flights, including those travelling through Miami (MIA), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), and London (LHR). Vetster access comes at no additional cost to Air Canada flyers.