Want to Be a Flight Nanny? Here’s What You Need to Know About the World’s Coolest Job

At first glance, the ecosystem of the dog-adoption world can seem simple. But below the surface, a network of different forces are at work to result in a puppy finding the perfect home. Tucked into the bustle of it all, right there at an early, crucial part of the action, are some of the unsung heroes of the dog-adoption process: flight nannies.

A flight nanny is the connective force between a future owner and their new puppy, a vital part in facilitating a safe and comfortable journey for pups born far away from their forever families. Their services can be the missing link, as using a flight nanny can allow a future owner to expand their puppy search beyond their immediate area. Knowing that a caring, qualified person will be there to chaperone young dogs through the chaos of airline travel is a reassuring feeling for lots of new puppy parents. 

And as far as desirable career paths go, flight-nannying is sure to pique the interest of both animal lovers and adventurous spirits. Not many jobs require someone to hang out with puppies while they travel around the country. For the insider scoop on the wild world of airborne puppy transpo, we talked to Sandy Hunt and Makena Moody, professional flight nannies who work frequently with a few of the responsible breeders represented on Good Dog, such as Carlsbad Cavaliers. Before they started their careers transporting puppies, both Makena and Sandy were life-long animal lovers eager to dive into a new career experience.

Of all the ways someone could work professionally with animals, becoming a flight nanny seems like one of the more idiosyncratic. How did you first get started?

MAKENA: I had recently stopped working at my full time job, and I had a lot of time on my hands. My mom had recently started partner breeding with her friend, and eventually I became curious about how pups got home to their new families! I knew there was no way every family could fly or drive out on their own to get their puppy. After finding out about what a flight nanny does, I knew I wanted to pursue it. My very first delivery was for Artisan Doodles, and I delivered 2 pups. I absolutely LOVED it, and have been doing it ever since (almost 2 years!). The reason I do what I do, is so that one less puppy has to go under the plane for cargo shipping. To date, I have officially delivered 134 puppies to their forever families! 

SANDY: I actually feel Covid was the stimulus.  A breeder posted a request for someone to transport a puppy for her. I was not afraid to fly during Covid and volunteered.  

Can you walk us through how the process works– from initial contact with a family to finally meeting them at the airport– and everything that happens in between?

SANDY: I work with about 10 breeders. When a customer needs a new puppy transported, the breeder gives them my information. When the purchaser contacts me I ask these questions:

1. What cities will I be transporting to and from?

2. Are they flexible with the delivery date?

3. What is the size and breed of the puppy?

I spend hours researching best air fares and direct flights that fit both the breeder and purchaser's schedules. I always allow at least 3 hours between flights in case of delays. I have had to include a hotel stay on some of my trips. The breeder then meets me at the airport [with the puppy]. 

At the airport, you must check in at the ticket counter before going through security, and then carry the puppy through security. While waiting for our flight, I hold the puppies as much as I can. You will have a lot of children (and adults) who want to pet your puppy.  

While on the plane they must stay in the carrier under the seat in front of you. I tell the customer to bring a carrier, blanket, collar and leash for their new puppy. I stay in touch with families via text during the flight. I send a photo of myself and the puppy before we board our flight.  They need to know who they will be looking for and they need to know if flights are on time. I always take a photo of the new family and send it to the breeder.

 I charge a fee plus expenses, which are paid to me via Zelle or PayPal when flight arrangements are confirmed. My fee is collected when families are united with their new puppy.

Traveling with a brand-new puppy seems like a situation that would require a lot of gear. What essential items do you always have in your go-bag when preparing to fly with a pup? 

MAKENA: It’s so important to be prepared for any situation when traveling with a furry friend. I make sure to carry many items on hand, including some I may never have to use. But I’d rather be safe than sorry! I bring lots of pee pads, dog food (in case the breeder didn’t send any in the go-home bag), puppy chew sticks and treats, a small container of peanut butter, a dog water bottle, small towels and wipes in case of any accidents, poop bags, toys, leashes and collars, a small bottle of puppy shampoo, and a small portable fan to keep the pup cool in the carrier! 

SANDY: I use a 17 inch carrier. Most airlines say they accept carriers up to 19 inches, but even my 17 inch barely fits under the seat. I have 4–5 pee pads. I put 2 pads in the carrier so that if they do go in the carrier I just pull out the top pad. I also bring a collapsible water bowl, puppy treats, poop bags, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, a small, safe puppy toy or chew, a harness/leash, and a diaper.

It’s difficult enough traveling with a checked bag– traveling with an animal is a whole different story of airline rules, regulations, and obstacles. What are some things about the process that not everyone would know?

SANDY: I do not accept puppies that do not meet airline requirements. If the pup cannot stand up and turn around in the carrier I will not take a chance on being denied boarding. Remember, the pet carrier is your carry-on. Hence you are only allowed a personal item. I use the largest bag I can as my personal item, because the breeder will be sending things for the new dog. That means my purse, tablet, phone, chargers, toothbrush etc. must fit in the carry on with whatever the breeder has me bring. 

I also always use the family restrooms for the pup to relieve themselves. Never use Designated Animal relief areas, so you don't expose new puppies to possible diseases.

Do you have a favorite breed of dog to work with?

MAKENA: Doodles ALL the way! Those pups have such good temperaments and I love that they are hypoallergenic*! It’s nice to come home from a long day of flying and have little to no hair on me. 

*Unfortunately, there are no truly hypoallergenic dogs. Some breeds may cause fewer allergic symptoms due to shedding less or having less hair.

As dog-lovers, it must be nice to always be in the middle of such an exciting event for both the breeders you work with and the families you deliver to. Do you ever keep in touch with the families? 

SANDY: Yes!

MAKENA: Every so often I try to reach out to past families I’ve delivered to! I love hearing updates about how well their pup is settling in. I also will have families reach out and send me up to date pictures of their cute pups, all grown up. 

Is there any advice you’d give to a beginner flight nanny? 

SANDY: You will want to apply for TSA Pre-check.  It only costs $85 for 5 years. And it would be ideal if you could always use the same airline and accrue frequent flier miles, but that doesn't always work. I myself have achieved Gold Status with AA. 

Aside from the puppy snuggles and window-seat views, what is your favorite part about being a flight nanny?

MAKENA: My most favorite part about being a flight nanny is 100% dropping the pups off to the new families! I seriously get to be Santa Clause all year ‘round, and it is the best. Delivering to the kids especially will always have a special place in my heart.

SANDY: Absolutely seeing the faces of the families when they are united with their new family member. 

If your future puppy is born somewhere too far to drive, know that incredible, caring people like Sandy and Makena are there to do everything they can to make sure your new family member gets to you as comfortably as possible. Even if they have to bear the horrors of the security line or experience the middle seat woes, your puppy will be safe with their flight nanny!

Looking for a reliable puppy nanny to get your puppy home? You can reach Makenna on her website or on Instagram at @flyingwithkena.

Are you interested in learning more about what goes into being a flight nanny? Curious about other awesome jobs in the dog-world? Email your questions and requests for more canine-career deep dives to us at social@gooddog.com!