Frequently AskedQuestions

Tail Fleet connects you with verified, professional independent pet transportation drivers who specialize in safe cross-country dog travel. Simply enter your pickup and delivery locations, submit your pet's information, and the platform will match you with the best available driver for your route. Your dedicated driver will care for your dog from pickup to delivery with regular updates along the way.

We recommend booking at least 7-14 days in advance to ensure handler availability, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and holidays). However, we may be able to accommodate shorter notice requests depending on handler availability in your area.

The platform provides cross-country transportation services throughout the United States. The network of independent drivers covers all 50 states, with the most frequent routes between major metropolitan areas. Remote or rural pickup and delivery locations are available and may require additional coordination.

Yes, ground transportation is very safe for healthy dogs. Handlers on our platform are trained in pet care and emergency procedures. Unlike air travel, ground transport allows for regular breaks, exercise, and personalized attention. Your dog stays with one dedicated handler throughout the entire journey, reducing stress and ensuring consistent care.

All Tail Fleet handlers undergo comprehensive background checks, driving record verification, and vehicle inspections. They must provide proof of commercial pet transportation insurance and demonstrate experience with animal care. We also verify references and conduct in-person interviews to ensure they meet our high standards.

You can upload detailed medical records and care instructions during booking. We'll use this information to match you with a handler experienced in your dog's specific needs. For dogs requiring medication, specific dietary needs, or mobility assistance, communicate these requirements clearly during booking. Our team ensures your assigned handler is qualified and comfortable with your dog's special requirements.

All handlers on our platform are required to carry commercial pet transportation insurance covering liability and care during transport. We verify proof of current insurance as part of our provider approval process.

Drivers typically provide updates at major milestones: pickup confirmation, rest stops, overnight stays, and delivery. You can also use our in-app messaging to request photos or status updates anytime. Your driver will keep you informed throughout the journey with regular communication and photo updates.

Trip duration depends on distance and route. Handlers typically drive 6-8 hours per day to ensure safe, stress-free travel with adequate breaks. For example, a coast-to-coast trip typically takes 4-6 days. You'll see the estimated timeline during booking, and your assigned handler will provide a detailed itinerary once your trip is confirmed.

Handlers arrange pet-friendly accommodations along the route. Many handlers use established networks of trusted hotels that welcome pets. Some handlers may offer in-vehicle overnight care for dogs who prefer it. Rest assured, your dog will be supervised 24/7 throughout the journey.

Handlers are trained in pet first aid and have access to our 24/7 emergency support line. In case of illness or injury, they will immediately contact you and seek veterinary care at the nearest facility. All emergency veterinary costs are documented and handled according to our emergency protocols.

Absolutely! The platform includes direct messaging between you and the driver. You can check in anytime, request photos, or ask questions. We encourage open communication for your peace of mind.

Your dog's safety is our top priority. Handlers continuously monitor weather conditions and have the authority to delay or reroute trips during severe weather, including heavy snow, ice storms, flooding, or extreme temperatures. If a delay is necessary, your handler will notify you immediately with updates on the revised timeline. Weather-related delays do not incur additional fees, and we'll work with you to adjust delivery expectations. In rare cases of extended delays or emergencies, we'll coordinate alternative arrangements to ensure your dog remains safe and comfortable.

We transport year-round but take extra precautions during temperature extremes. Handlers will not transport when temperatures exceed safety thresholds (typically above 90°F or below 20°F without climate-controlled vehicles). All handlers have climate-controlled vehicles and make frequent stops for water, bathroom breaks, and temperature checks. During summer months, travel may be scheduled for cooler parts of the day. During winter, handlers ensure your dog has adequate warmth and protection.

We transport dogs of all sizes, from tiny breeds to giant breeds. Handlers on our platform have experience with dogs ranging from under 10 pounds to over 150 pounds. Vehicle accommodations are made based on your dog's size to ensure they're comfortable and secure throughout the journey.

We do not have breed restrictions. We transport all breeds, including those often labeled as 'restricted' by other services. However, you must accurately disclose your dog's temperament and any behavioral concerns during booking. Safety is our priority for both your dog and the handlers.

Full disclosure of any aggressive or reactive behaviors is required during booking. The platform team will assess whether your dog can be safely accommodated based on the severity and triggers. Dogs with severe aggression issues that pose a safety risk to drivers may not be accepted. For dogs with manageable reactivity (leash reactivity, stranger anxiety, etc.), you'll be matched with drivers experienced in behavioral management.

Yes, multiple dogs can travel together if they're compatible with each other. This depends on the dogs' sizes, temperaments, and the handler's vehicle capacity. Multi-dog bookings are assessed individually. Your dogs will stay together with the same handler throughout the journey.

Pricing is calculated based on multiple factors including your dog's size, breed, distance, route complexity, handler availability, and current demand. Larger dogs may require more space and resources, which is factored into the overall cost. You'll see transparent pricing breakdown during booking with no hidden fees.

Puppies must be at least 8 weeks old and have received their first round of core vaccinations before travel. We recommend waiting until 12 weeks for optimal safety. For senior dogs, there's no upper age limit, but we require a recent veterinary health clearance (within 30 days) confirming they're fit for travel. Senior dogs with mobility issues or health concerns will be matched with handlers experienced in geriatric care.

We recommend waiting at least 2-3 weeks after surgery before booking transport, depending on the procedure. A veterinary clearance stating your dog is fit for travel is required. Minor procedures (dental cleaning, neutering) typically require less recovery time than major surgeries. Our team will review your dog's surgical history during booking to ensure safe travel timing.

Dogs with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, epilepsy, or arthritis can travel with proper management. You must provide detailed medical information, medication schedules, and emergency protocols during booking. A veterinary clearance confirming your dog is stable and fit for travel is required. We'll match you with handlers experienced in managing medical needs and emergency situations.

Yes, for interstate travel, most states require an official health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10-30 days of travel (requirements vary by state). The certificate confirms your dog is healthy, free from contagious diseases, and up-to-date on vaccinations, especially rabies. We'll inform you of specific requirements for your route during booking. Your handler will carry these documents throughout the journey.

While rare, if your handler needs to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances, we'll notify you immediately and work to assign a replacement handler as quickly as possible. We coordinate with available providers in our network for emergency situations. If we cannot secure a replacement handler within a reasonable timeframe, you'll receive a full refund. We do everything possible to prevent cancellations and ensure your trip proceeds as scheduled.

Handlers are expected to arrive within the scheduled pickup window. If your handler is running late due to traffic, weather, or other delays, we'll contact you immediately with updated arrival time. We understand timing is critical, and handlers prioritize punctuality. If a delay significantly impacts your plans, we'll work with you to find the best solution.

If your handler becomes ill or unable to continue during transport, we have emergency protocols in place. We'll arrange for a handler transfer where another qualified handler in the area will take over the trip. Your dog's care will not be interrupted - they'll be kept safe and comfortable during the transition. In areas with limited handler coverage, we may arrange temporary boarding at a vetted facility while coordinating the transfer. You'll be kept informed throughout the process.

All handlers undergo thorough vetting including background checks, driving record verification, reference checks, and in-person interviews. We monitor handler performance through customer reviews, on-time pickup/delivery rates, and communication quality. Handlers must maintain high standards or risk being removed from our platform. Our provider network also provides backup coverage for unexpected situations.

Handlers provide bathroom breaks every 2-4 hours during travel, with longer exercise and stretch breaks (15-30 minutes) every 4-6 hours depending on your dog's needs. Breaks are adjusted based on your dog's age, size, and comfort level. Puppies and senior dogs may require more frequent stops. Handlers use safe, designated areas like rest stops or dog-friendly parks. Your dog will have access to fresh water at all times.

All handlers must use clean, well-maintained, climate-controlled vehicles approved for pet transportation. Common vehicles include SUVs, minivans, and passenger vans with dedicated pet areas. Vehicles are inspected regularly and must meet our safety standards including proper ventilation, secure restraint systems (crates, safety harnesses, or pet barriers), and emergency equipment. Handlers cannot transport your dog in unsafe or poorly maintained vehicles.

We can accommodate trips of any distance across the continental United States. There's no maximum distance, but extremely long trips (coast-to-coast) typically take 4-6 days with overnight stops. We don't recommend trips exceeding 10-14 days for your dog's comfort and wellbeing. For international transport or Alaska/Hawaii, we can coordinate with specialized partners.

Yes, you can request specific routes or stops during booking. Common requests include avoiding certain highways, stopping at specific locations, or coordinating with friends/family along the route. Significant route changes or special stops may incur additional fees depending on the detour distance. We'll review your requests and provide adjusted pricing if needed. Minor route preferences are usually accommodated at no extra charge.

Yes, each state has its own regulations for pet entry. Most states require current rabies vaccination, and many require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) issued within 10-30 days of travel. Some states have additional requirements for specific diseases or entry permits. When you book, we'll provide a detailed list of requirements for your specific route, including which states you'll pass through and their individual regulations.

A CVI, also called a health certificate, is an official document issued by a licensed veterinarian confirming your dog is healthy and fit for travel. It includes vaccination records, health status, and the veterinarian's certification that your dog shows no signs of contagious disease. The CVI must be issued within a specific timeframe before travel (typically 10-30 days, depending on destination state). Your regular veterinarian can issue this document.

Hawaii has strict quarantine requirements (up to 120 days, or potentially no quarantine with advance preparation through their 5 Day Or Less program). Alaska has specific health requirements but no quarantine. For trips to Hawaii, we can coordinate with specialized air transport partners familiar with Hawaii's import requirements. Continental US states generally do not have quarantine requirements for dogs with proper health documentation.

We provide detailed guidance on all required paperwork for your route, including state-specific requirements and veterinary forms needed. While you're responsible for obtaining health certificates from your veterinarian, we offer an optional concierge service where a handler can transport your dog to your veterinary appointment to obtain the CVI if you're unable to attend. This service incurs an additional fee based on location and time required. We'll review all documentation before travel to ensure everything is in order, and your handler will carry all documents during transport.

Ground transport offers personalized, stress-free travel with one dedicated handler throughout the journey. Unlike air travel where dogs are in cargo holds, your dog stays in a climate-controlled vehicle with regular breaks, exercise, and interaction. There are no breed restrictions, size limits, or extreme temperature concerns. You maintain direct communication with your handler, and they can immediately address any needs or concerns during the trip.

Ground transport is ideal for anxious dogs, brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds restricted by airlines, dogs with medical needs requiring monitoring, very large or very small dogs, or when you want personalized one-on-one care. Air travel may be faster for transcontinental trips (3-4 hours vs 4-6 days) but comes with more stress and restrictions. Many pet owners choose ground transport specifically for the peace of mind and quality of care.

Both methods can be safe when done properly, but ground transport eliminates many risks associated with air travel: no cargo hold exposure to extreme temperatures, no risk of lost/delayed luggage affecting your pet, no airline breed restrictions, and immediate access to care if issues arise. Your dog remains with one handler throughout the trip rather than changing hands multiple times at airports. Ground transport is particularly safer for anxious, elderly, or medically complex dogs who need consistent monitoring.

Pricing is based on distance, route complexity, timeline requirements, and your dog's size. You'll see the total cost breakdown during booking, including handler fees, platform fees, and any applicable insurance. There are no hidden charges.

A deposit (typically 25-30% of the total) is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance is held in escrow and released to the handler upon successful delivery of your dog. This protects both you and the handler.

The price includes door-to-door transportation, handler fees, regular updates with photos, and 24/7 support. Providers are required to carry their own commercial pet transport insurance. The price does not include special requests like premium pet supplies, extra photo packages, or expedited delivery timelines, which can be added for an additional fee.

Cancellations made 7+ days before pickup receive a full refund minus a small processing fee. Cancellations within 7 days may be subject to a cancellation fee to compensate handlers for reserved time. Emergency cancellations are handled case-by-case. See our full cancellation policy in your booking confirmation.

You'll need current vaccination records (especially rabies), health certificate if traveling across state lines (varies by state), and any medications with dosage instructions. Upload these documents through our platform before your trip. Your handler will carry copies during transport.

Please provide your dog's regular food (enough for the journey plus extra), any medications, favorite toys or blankets, leash, collar with ID tags, and a properly-sized crate if you prefer your dog travels crated. Handlers carry basic supplies (bowls, waste bags, cleaning supplies) but your dog will be most comfortable with familiar items.

Not necessarily. While some dogs travel in crates for safety, many dogs ride secured with a safety harness or in a dedicated pet area. Discuss your dog's preferences and comfort level with your handler. If crating is required for your dog's safety or your state's regulations, we'll notify you during booking.

Note this during booking so we can match you with a handler experienced in anxious dogs. Many dogs who are initially anxious become comfortable with experienced handlers. Handlers use calming techniques, frequent breaks, and comfort items. If your vet has prescribed anti-anxiety medication for travel, provide clear dosage instructions.

Give your dog time to decompress and adjust to their new environment. Provide water immediately, a light meal if it's mealtime, and a quiet space to rest. Some dogs are excited upon arrival, while others need a few hours to settle. This is completely normal after a journey.

After delivery, you'll receive a prompt to rate your experience and leave a review for your handler. Reviews help other pet owners make informed decisions and help handlers build their reputation. We appreciate honest, detailed feedback.

Contact our support team immediately if you have concerns about your dog's condition after delivery. We take all post-delivery issues seriously and will work with you and the handler to address any problems. Our customer support is available 24/7.