The ARK at JFK
About This Facility
The ARK at JFK is the world's first privately owned 24/7 animal reception center, opened in a purpose-built 178,000-square-foot facility at JFK Airport. It includes the ARK Pet Oasis for companion animals, equine import/export quarantine stalls, an aviary quarantine center, and a full veterinary hospital designed in consultation with Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
The ARK is the only Port Authority-approved animal care facility at JFK and serves as the designated CDC Animal Care Facility for dogs entering from high-risk rabies countries. The facility handles approximately 70,000 animals annually, including cats, dogs, horses, birds, livestock, and exotic species.
Physical Arrival Directions
The ARK is located off the runway in Cargo Area D at JFK International Airport. It is NOT in any passenger terminal. From the passenger terminals, you can take a taxi directly to The ARK (specify 'Cargo Area D, The ARK' to your driver).
The facility provides 24/7 access with free parking. If collecting a cat that arrived as cargo, you will need the Air Waybill (AWB) number and photo ID. For in-cabin arrivals, your cat clears with you at the passenger terminal through CBP.
Contact your pet shipping agent or The ARK directly for collection timing — do not arrive without confirmation that your cat is ready.
Practical Tips & What to Expect
If your cat is arriving as manifest cargo, start the reservation process with The ARK at least 35 days before arrival. The ARK strongly recommends that all pets travel as manifest cargo (with an Air Waybill) rather than as excess baggage, as this simplifies the customs clearance process.
For cats arriving in-cabin with a passenger, you will clear CBP at the passenger terminal — The ARK is primarily for cargo arrivals. Expect processing to take at least one business day; overnight stays at The ARK are common and included at no extra charge.
The ARK's on-site veterinary hospital can provide health certificates and emergency care if needed.
Professional Pet Transport
Need door-to-door pet transport through New York JFK?
Starwood Animal Transport handle permits, health certs, airline bookings & collection logistics.