Ron LawnFlying with your dog can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Whether you’re heading to a dog-friendly vacation destination or relocating, traveling with your furry companion can be smooth and stress-free if you follow the right steps. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort when flying.
1. Check Airline Policies and Requirements
Before booking your flight, it’s crucial to understand the specific airline’s pet policy. Airlines vary in their regulations regarding pet travel, including the size and weight limits for in-cabin pets and the requirements for traveling in cargo. Some airlines allow small dogs to travel in the cabin with you, while larger dogs may need to be transported in the cargo hold.
Key things to check:
- Weight limits for in-cabin pets (usually under 15-20 pounds).
- Pet carrier specifications (make sure it meets the airline’s size requirements).
- Costs of flying with a pet, as airlines charge pet fees.
- Health certificates or vaccination records that might be required.
- Breed restrictions, particularly for certain dog breeds that may not be allowed in cargo.
By confirming all the necessary details ahead of time, you can avoid last-minute surprises.
2. Visit the Vet Before You Go
A pre-flight vet checkup is a must to ensure your dog is fit to travel. Your vet will make sure your dog is healthy enough for the journey and may provide you with a health certificate required by airlines or international destinations. If you’re flying internationally, certain vaccines or treatments may be necessary, and it’s essential to understand the regulations of both your departure and arrival destinations.
Key points to discuss with your vet:
- Ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Ask about sedatives or calming medications if your dog is anxious about flying. (Note: Many vets recommend against sedatives for air travel, as they can interfere with your dog’s ability to handle the altitude or temperature changes.)
- Discuss any breed-specific considerations or health concerns that could affect your dog’s ability to travel comfortably.
3. Choose the Right Carrier
The right carrier is essential for your dog’s comfort and safety during the flight. Whether your dog will be flying in the cabin or in the cargo hold, the carrier must be well-ventilated, sturdy, and large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
In-cabin pet carrier tips:
- Measure your dog and choose a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you (check with the airline for specific size requirements).
- Ensure the carrier is soft-sided, as hard-shell carriers may not fit under the seat.
- Include a familiar blanket or toy to comfort your dog during the flight.
Cargo hold carrier tips:
- Use a hard-sided, IATA-approved carrier for dogs traveling in cargo.
- Ensure the carrier is secure and has ventilation on all sides.
- Attach a label with your contact information and your dog’s details (including feeding instructions, if necessary).
4. Prepare Your Dog for Travel
It’s helpful to get your dog accustomed to their carrier well before the flight. A few days or weeks in advance, start using the carrier for short trips or just for positive experiences like meals or naps. This will help reduce anxiety during the actual flight.
Desensitize your dog to the carrier:
- Place treats or favorite toys inside the carrier to make it a more inviting space.
- Gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends inside the carrier.
For dogs that have never flown before, consider taking short car trips in the carrier to simulate the experience and help your dog get used to being confined.
5. Take Your Dog for a Walk Before the Flight
Before heading to the airport, take your dog on a long walk or play session. This helps burn off excess energy and may prevent restlessness during the flight. A tired dog is often a calmer dog, so try to get them as relaxed and comfortable as possible before the journey.
Pro tip: If your dog is traveling in the cargo hold, ask the airline if you can bring your dog for a potty break before the flight.
6. Pack a Pet Travel Kit
You’ll want to have everything your dog might need during the flight and immediately after arrival. Here’s a checklist of items to pack:
- Food and water: Carry enough food for the trip, and a collapsible water bowl for hydration.
- Leash and collar: Always have a leash on hand for walks at layovers or after the flight.
- Waste bags: For bathroom breaks.
- Medications: If your dog takes regular medications, ensure you have enough for the entire trip.
- Comfort items: Bring a familiar blanket, toy, or something that smells like home to soothe your dog during the flight.
Keep these items in a separate, easy-to-access bag to make sure you have them when needed.
7. Arrive Early at the Airport
When flying with your dog, it’s always a good idea to arrive at the airport earlier than usual to account for the time it may take to check in your dog, go through security, and attend to any last-minute needs. Some airlines require additional time to handle pets, especially if your dog is traveling in the cargo hold.
What to expect at the airport:
- Check-in process: You’ll need to check in with the airline’s pet services and potentially pay a pet fee.
- Security: If your dog is flying in the cabin, you’ll need to remove them from the carrier and carry them through the security checkpoint while the carrier is screened separately.
Arriving early gives you the time to handle all these logistics calmly.
8. Keep Your Dog Calm During the Flight
If your dog is flying in the cabin, you’ll be able to keep an eye on them and reassure them during the flight. However, dogs traveling in the cargo hold may be stressed from the lack of interaction. For in-cabin flights, consider covering the carrier with a blanket to block out distractions. Speak to your dog calmly and offer water as needed.
For dogs flying in cargo:
- Ensure the airline keeps the cargo hold at the proper temperature (usually airlines have temperature-controlled holds for pets).
- Make sure the carrier is secure and well-ventilated to reduce stress.
9. Know What to Do After the Flight
Upon arrival, check in with the airline staff to ensure your dog was safely unloaded. If your dog traveled in the cargo hold, it may take some time for the luggage area to be cleared and for the pets to be retrieved, so be patient.
Once you’re reunited, take your dog on a quick bathroom break and offer food and water, especially if the journey was long.
10. Consider Pet Travel Services for International Flights
If you’re flying internationally, some countries require quarantine or specific vaccinations for pets. To simplify the process, consider using a pet travel agency to help with paperwork, bookings, and logistics. These services can ensure that your dog complies with regulations and has a smooth trip.
Conclusion
Flying with your dog requires careful planning, but with the right preparation, you can both enjoy a safe and stress-free journey. By choosing the right airline, preparing your dog for the trip, and making sure they have all the comforts and necessities they need, your flight will be a success. With these tips, you’ll be ready to embark on your dog-friendly vacation or move with confidence, knowing your dog is in good hands. Happy travels!
