I can see what you mean. My last breeder did not ship. i drove to meet her at a dog show. She wouldn't ship such a long way or such a small dog. I appreciated that. My first breeder did ship but my boy was a much bigger pup and even tho he got laid over he was fine

I did pay extra and he did not come in the cargo area but not all airlines offer that service. I think it is safe but that is JMO.