Travel tips on how to fly with dogs
traveling with dogs may be either a great and memorable experience or a stressful and even traumatic experience for both of you. You can avoid negative situations by taking some preventive measures. We’ve created a list with Michael Schoeff of useful tips to better prepare yourself for the flight.
Visit your dog’s veterinarian
Some dog breeds are not suitable for flying, so check if your dog is able to travel before planning such a trip. There are also airline companies that are not accepting all breeds.
According to your dog’s size, age and temperament, a veterinarian will let you know if your dog is suffering from anxiety or if he/she’s able to fly.
Get the copies of your dog’s vaccinations
Don’t forget to check if your dog has all vaccinations up to date. During your holiday, you may find yourself in the situation to prove that your dog is up-to-date on vaccines. Discuss with your veterinarian and try to get a hard copy of all vaccinations and keep them handy in your luggage.
Ask the veterinarian for a health certificate dated within 10 days of departures, especially if you are traveling outside of your home country.
Choose the right carrier for your dog
Choose a soft-sided carrier to make sure it fits better under the seat if it is allowed in the cabin. Check the size restrictions before purchasing one. If your dog is traveling in the cargo hold, choose a hard-plastic carrier with holes for ventilation. The carrier should be big enough for your dog to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.
Looking for some ways to make your dog accustomed to their travel carrier? Take them in the car always in the same carrier and they will get used to it faster. A good idea is to bring the carrier inside the house and leave it out for them to hop in any time they want.
Write your dog’s name on the carrier and include identification tags with home address and phone number. Provide yourself with a photo of your dog in case they get lost during the trip.
Buy the plane tickets early
Most airlines allow one or two dogs on each flight, so book your dog’s ticket as soon as possible. Call the airline and ask if they have available seats for dogs on the flight before buying the tickets. Reserve the tickets while you’re still on the phone with the call center agent.
Choose direct flights
Pick out only direct flights whenever possible, preferably during weekdays when airports are less crowded. Fly in the morning or evening during the summer and midday during the winter if your dog is traveling in the cargo hold to avoid extreme temperatures.
Look for pet relief areas
Most airports have designated pet relief areas. Do online research ahead of time and look up maps of the airport so that you can find out the nearest pet areas. Airports are dog-friendly nowadays, so the chances to find a dog park or a dog boarding available at your airport are great.
Exercise your dog before the departure
Some breeds are highly energetic and the trip may get them anxious. Activities before flying are a good idea to tire your dog so they can fall asleep during the flight. Take them for a walk, let them play with their favorite toys or find any other type of activity that reduces their amount of energy.
Don’t feed your dog just before the departure
Take your dog outside before arriving at the terminal. Don’t feed your dog right before the flight to avoid accidents. A full stomach can make your dog feel uncomfortable during a travel. Feed them about four hours before the departure.
Drinking water right before flying is not a good idea, so you can order ice water for you and give your dog the ice cubes in his carrier to avoid becoming thirsty.
Leave the dishes in the carrier so an airline employee can provide your dog with water or food in case of a delay.
Avoid giving your dog tranquilizers
Don’t provide your dog with pet tranquilizers because they can develop respiratory or cardiovascular issues when being exposed to increased altitude pressures. These types of medicines can also alter their equilibrium and they can be prescribed only by a veterinarian. If the doctor recommends tranquilizers, write the name of the drug and the dosage on the dog carrier.
Pack all the necessary stuff for your dog
Pack all the doggy essentials into the carry-on to stay safe during the flight. Poop bags, water dishes and several toys may come in handy.
Adopt a strategic vision when it comes to packing your things. Be sure you pack only the things you need and avoid oversizing your luggage.
Put into your dog’s suitcase the health certificate and medical records, the contact information for your veterinarian and an emergency contact at your destination, special medication your dog might need, comb and brush products, spare collar with id tag, pet wipes and grooming products, food and treats for the trip, bottled water, dishes, leash and poop bags, toys and blankets.
Come to the airport 2 hours before the departure
Arrive at the airport early and have your dog’s health certificate handy. The best time to arrive is two hours before the departure as you have to check-in at the counter.
When you get to security, it’s necessary to remove your dog’s leash and collar and carry your dog through the metal detector. The other things will go through the X-ray machine. Avoid packing liquids and your laptop in your carry-on.
The first things to do at your destination
When you arrive at your destination, go for a long walk before checking-in at the hotel. Your dog will feel better to explore the surroundings. By the time you arrive at the hotel, your dog will feel comfortable and homelike.
Preparing in advance will help you improve your traveling experiences so that both you and your dog enjoy the flight. After settling in at the hotel, you can visit dog-friendly places and restaurants, but it’s best to research early to avoid wasting your time out there.
Leave us your top travel tips on how to fly with dogs in the comments below
Author bio
Michael Schoeff is an entrepreneur with over 10 years of experience in business development and pet product design. His business requires him to always acquire knowledge and stay up-to-date with the latest news.
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