Flying with Your Dog or Cat

Dog & Cat owners who go on business trips or take vacations have to decide whether to board their dog in a kennel or take the dog with them. For many pet parents, leaving their beloved behind is not an option; they want their pet to accompany them, even if it means flying.

The key element when flying with your pet on an airplane is to make plans and work out the specifics in advance of the flight. The following is a list of details to consider before flying with your pet:

1. The best scenario is being able to have your pet with you in the cabin area and not cargo. However, depending upon your destination and the airline will determine that. There are numerous airline companies that offer this service, including special service if you are not flying with your pet, but need to transport her/him to another location without your accompanying. In any event, it is vital to make preparations well in advance.
   
2. Plan a direct flight to their destination, if possible. This will shorten flight time and help to reduce the pet’s time in the transportation carrier. The pet owner should call the airline as soon as the itinerary has been finalized. The airline will have rules, regulations, and policies that must be followed so it is wise to know ahead of time what they are. If an overseas trip has been planned, there may be quarantine regulations that must be considered. When calling the airline in advance  discuss any requests or requirements that you may have. IF your pet is flying in the cargo area it is imperative to make sure that the cargo compartment of the airplane is pressurized, so that your beloved pet will have oxygen and be warm enough while traveling.
3. There are different types ofcarriersused by the various airlines. A pet parent can contact the airline and ask them to provide a carrier in advance. Make sure you’ve had ample time for your pet to be familiar with traveling and or being in the carrier. I wouldn’t just introduce her or him to the night before.  Anxiety is high pretty much the day before most are traveling and your pet picks up on that!!!  This will help reduce some of the fear or anxiety that cat or dog may experience on the day of the flight.  Talk to your vet if you are concerned.  They may suggest a  mild tranquilizer to help them remain calm while flying.  Again, please consult with your vet.
   
4. When the flight day arrives,  you should plan to start the day early. This will give  enough time to exercise the pet, allow the animal to ‘go potty,’ and help  become comfortable in the carrier. Before he/she enters the carrier, you need to place the pet’s  identifying information on the carrier and make sure it is on the him or her as well.  An implanted ID tag is also a good idea, but must be obtained via a veterinarian prior to the trip.
5. If you are not traveling with your pet make sure you request confirmation that your beloved pet has been securely and safely loaded onto the plane.
   
6. At the point of arrival, makes sure whether it is yourself or someone else picking up your pet , that you know the exact location.  Some airlines have a separate office or facility where passengers pick up cargo, including animals, from a flight.

Pet parents who follow the above guidelines will be well-prepared when they are flying with their pet. They will ensure their safety. In addition, the pet will be more at ease and less likely to experience fear or anxiety during an airline flight. Flying with your pet  can be a great experience if precautions are taken to prepare ahead of time.

By: Staff of TravelinPaws.com