Somewhere in the world, a dog is excited to fly for the first time. Whether this lucky pooch is flying economy or business class, it's best to be well prepared for the big day. Traveling with a dog requires planning, and it's important to prioritize your dog's needs and follow airline requirements. As a travel writer, I've met several dogs who board jets with a sense of adventure and their tails wagging happily. But not all dogs love flying, even if you can get a window seat on a private jet.
The Humane Society of the United States advises that if you're traveling with your dog by plane, you should also bring your dog on the plane. Air transporting canine companions in the hold of an airplane is controversial with many risks, and can cause extreme stress and anxiety for the dog. Animal rights groups advise against this unless absolutely necessary. Therefore, the focus of this article is on small dogs that can fit safely in carriers that travel within the main cabin.
veterinarian visit
Visit your veterinarian to make sure your best furry dog is in good health and ready for your plane trip. Many airlines require recent health documentation (often within 10 days of travel) and vaccination records. Make sure you have all your documents in order, especially since entry requirements may vary from country to country. It's always a good idea to print and make copies of everything, and it's also important to know where the nearest emergency veterinary hospital is located in the city you're visiting.
Airline pet policy
Not all airlines have the same rules regarding dog travel, and some do not allow them on board. If you fly with WestJet, you'll need to call to make a reservation and pay a kennel fee, as the number of pets allowed on each flight is limited.
“Pets traveling as carry-on baggage need space in their kennel to stand, sit, and move around naturally. Some types of aircraft have restrictions on space under seats other than window seats. Therefore, you may have to sit in a window seat. – Westjet
American Airlines allows pets on board. “Only dogs and cats that meet size, age and destination requirements.”
At Air Canada, “Pet carriers must be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down safely and comfortably, without allowing any part of them to protrude from the carrier. Your pet may be refused travel if it is determined to be too small.
Airline policies regarding dog travel may also include breed, weight, and age. Delta requires dogs to “stay in the following locations.” For domestic travel, at least 10 weeks old [and] You must be 16 weeks old if you are traveling to the United States from another country, and you must be at least 15 weeks old if you are traveling to the European Union. ”
Always check the airline's website for specific country restrictions and regulations regarding flight routes.
doggy bag
The dog is ready for vacation.
getty
If a dog can wear trendy and fashionable clothes, he can certainly have stylish luggage. Fill the bag with their favorite toys and blankets. Includes snacks (long-lasting ones are better), food, water bottles (filled after security), eating utensils or pop-up bowls, chew toys for takeoff and landing, and medications. Have poop bags, puppy pee pads, and paper towels ready in case of an accident. Dogs must wear a secure collar with a current ID tag. Don't forget your leash or safety harness. Do not leave the leash in the carrier bag as the dog may become entangled.
When shopping for an airline, American Airlines recommends a soft-sided collapsible dog kennel that fits under the seat.“It must be secure, padded, made of water-repellent material, and have nylon mesh ventilation on at least three sides.”
Preparing for adventure
A few weeks before your trip, put your dog in a carrier with toys and treats so he knows it's a cozy, safe place. Some airports require your dog to remain in a carrier at all times, so it's a good idea to give your dog some proper exercise before leaving for the airport. Before boarding, visit the pet relief area at the airport. The U.S. Department of Transportation requires all airports to have animal rescue areas for passengers traveling with service animals, and airports across the country now have restroom areas available to all pets traveling. It is installed. They range from small grassy areas to busy dog parks. If you're lucky, your dog will have a bright, colorful fire hydrant.
We recommend reducing water and food a few hours before your flight or as directed by your veterinarian. Some experts suggest having your dog drink some water right before entering the carrier. Eating less food before your flight may reduce your risk of an upset stomach.
final tip
To reduce stress and anxiety, book direct flights whenever possible and avoid changing planes. If possible, avoid busy travel days and try to depart during the off-season. For long-haul flights, consider flying overnight when your dog is in his natural sleep cycle. Airports can be stressful and it's important to stay calm and positive during the delay. Dogs (and all animals) can sense our stress levels, so smile and do your best to go with the flow.
The American Veterinary Medical Association warns that flying with short-nosed dogs can be fatal, as they are more prone to respiratory problems. “In July 2010, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced that short-nosed dog breeds such as pugs, Boston terriers, boxers, some mastiffs, Pekingese, Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus, and bulldogs are more likely to die on airplanes. We published statistics that show that they are better than dogs with normal length muzzles.”
If your dog is one of these breeds, or is too large to fit safely in a main cabin carrier, you may want to consider a fun road trip adventure instead of flying.
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