With the holiday season right around the corner, travel is expected to increase at airports across the country.
In preparation for that travel influx, the Transportation Security Administration is offering a reminder: don’t put animals through X-ray machines.
The TSA shared that recently, there have been multiple instances where travelers failed to remove pets from carriers, instead putting them through the security checkpoint X-ray machines.
In a statement from the agency, it stressed that the machines are not for animals.
The proper method of traveling with your pet is to bring them to a security checkpoint in a hand-held travel carrier; remove them from the carrier prior to the screening process, put the empty carrier through the X-ray machine, and then carry the pet through the metal detectors or let the pet walk on a leash.
“Never place a pet in the X-ray tunnel. The X-ray at the security checkpoint is used to screen passengers’ personal property and carry-on luggage only,” the TSA said.
After going through a screening process, which includes being checked for any trace of explosives, owners should return their pet to the travel carrier.
While every airport will have different policies for pets, the TSA says being prepared and informed before you travel will be the safest for you and your furry friend.
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