FYI - My Sugar flew in from Ohio as PPS cargo on AA Cargo.

My pick up was at the regular terminal. NOT at the baggage area. They brought all the pet carriers up on one of those luggage dollies, and we all had to line up with our paper work and driver's license to claim our dog. You must have photo ID to claim your pet.

In spite of all the confusion (yes, I was quite confused what was going on that day), I was left with the impression that they really DO know what they are doing. Hope that helps.