Getting our furry companions in the car can be tough enough, just imagine how “fun” a plane ride will be! No stress, as there are some awesome things you can do in preparation to fly with a dog.
The last thing you need to be worrying about is all that is involved with flying your baby, which is why we have put together this awesome summary on flying with a dog. This post has some great tips on what to do, how to prepare your dog, and the documents you need to make everything above board.
If you are worried about your dog and its anxiety, perhaps you can get something to help calm their nerves. Have a look at the best CBD oil in South Africa for dogs. It will be a great help in the journey ahead. So, without further ado, let’s jump in.
Traveling With Dogs
Travelling with our furry friends can be a challenge and is something we should carefully consider while planning any trip. Remember, dogs, cats, and other pets are a lot more sensitive to loud noises, lots of people, and bright lights.
Keeping this in mind, traveling with them is a lot like traveling with a baby. Proceed carefully, take some measures to make them more comfortable and calmer, and give them lots of hugs and kisses when you are done.
Can You Fly With A Dog?
In short: Yes you can. Most, if not all, airlines allow pet travel, with some of them even allowing your darling to sit by you in the cabin. Bigger dogs are more of an issue regarding space, so they will have to fly as “cargo.”
Smaller dogs, with carriers that can fit underneath the seat in front of you, are allowed in the cabin. Just keep in mind they will get fidgety at some point. So, be prepared for some soothing noises and weird looks from the people on the plane!
Flying With A Dog: What Should I Do?
Bringing dogs on a plane is sometimes a necessary “evil” when we travel. There are situations where we cannot bring them along in any other way. So, to make things easier on you, your pooch, and both your anxieties, we have put together some super helpful tips to help make things run more smoothly.
Flying With Dogs: 5 Great Tips
Your dog is a living, breathing creature. They have feelings, moods, wants and needs just like us. Thus it is important to remember any discomfort you might endure on a flight, you can be almost certain they are having it worse.
Now, this is not to say you shouldn’t be flying with them, but just to inform you of what they might be experiencing. Luckily there are a few things you can do to make their lives a little bit better.
1) Vet visit: Health Checkup
When booking your flight with your canine, you normally have to provide some sort of health verification. This includes their rabies and vaccination records, as well as documentation on other conditions that might affect their health or the health of other passengers
It is also worth mentioning to your vet that you plan on flying. This way, they can make sure Lassie’s health is up to the task. If they are having breathing issues, fits, or seizures lately, it might not be the best time to bring them on board a plane.
2) Medication
Stock up on any medication your dog might need, and take into account the duration of the flight and their medication schedule. You might have to adjust it and move some things around to ensure they get their meds on time.
Also, look into some calming medication should they need it. Anxiety and stress can run quite high for a dog on a plane, as any small movements or changes in light, temperature, and pressure can be alarming for them.
3) Ensure their comfort
A small, familiar blanket is key, as your dog will definitely want something to comfort them during stressful times. If you can manage it, also add in a soft toy for them to hold.
If they will be sleeping most of the time (drugged doggos tend to nap), perhaps include a pillow as well.
4) Pack the right carrier
Choosing the right carrier for your fluffball is quite important, as they have to follow some strict guidelines. They need to be under a certain weight (32kg combined with your pooch). You’ll also have to adhere to restrictions and specs regarding the construction of the carrier itself.
Have a look here for a detailed guide on pets on board as well as your carrier requirements (these are quite standard specs, so expect this to be relevant for most airlines allowing pet travel). Just be sure to contact your specific airline in case there is any additional info you may need.
5) Think about food and water
Lastly, preparing some food and water that are travel-safe is key. Water can be provided by you if your pet is with you in the cabin, but otherwise, putting ice cubes in the carrier will do the trick.
Easy, no-mess food should be included if absolutely necessary, but it is not needed. As long as they had a sack within a few hours of takeoff, they should be fine until you land.
How To Fly With A Dog
When bringing dogs on airplanes, there are a few regulations you need to be aware of. Besides their medical records, you also need to know a few other things.
- Dogs brought onboard must be at least 10 weeks old.
- No dogs (or carriers) may be placed on seats.
- Be aware that flying may be hazardous to your dog’s health, and you do so at your own risk.
- Be aware that there might be restrictions on how many animals are allowed on the plane. Thus, to be safe, treat it on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Dogs on Planes: That’s All Folks
So, just to recap: Can I fly with my dog? Yes, you can. You are now equipped with the knowledge of the best way to fly with a dog. Fluffy can relax (and so can you) knowing all the necessary bits are under control.
All you need to do now is choose a pet-friendly airline (like Delta Airlines) and book your air travel. The worst is behind you, now you can look forward to the journey ahead.
