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Though it can be loads of fun to take the dog out in travels, it can be very stressful on both the animal and owner. This is especially true if your air travel involves flying.

By taking adequate precautions, everybody, including dogs, can enjoy a safe and enjoyable flight. Consult with your veterinarian.

Before you book a flight for your dog, consider how well you think they will tolerate the trip. Some pets just aren’t good travelers due to health, age, or personality.

Before you start planning your trip, you’re going to want to call or visit with your vet to find out if they think your dog is healthy enough to travel. You will also want to check that they are all up to date on their inoculations.

Choosing the Right Travel Carrier when flying with a dog

Even though any air company is free to impose additional limitations if it sees a need in them, the Federal Aviation Agency has still developed some basic standards and requirements for flights across the country.

Also know the size limits and which pet carriers are accepted on board. Most airlines require soft-sided carriers that allow your dog to stand up and turn around. If he travels in the cargo hold, requirements will vary.

Most will be marked as such when you buy them, so look for that. You don’t want to be at the airport ready to board and then be told your dog’s carrier is not acceptable.

Attach your contact information to your pet carrier just in case you get separated. Be sure and make sure your dog’s tags and/or microchip are up-to-date.

Do Your Research

It is necessary to conduct some prior study when flying with a dog because every airline has different pet policy. For example, before to booking a ticket, it’s wise to confirm whether the breed of dog you have is permitted to travel by flight.

Some places only allow dogs of a certain size and under.

Try not to spend too much time in your hotel room alone with your dog. You may also want to ask about any nearby dog parks and dog-friendly restaurants before you arrive.

Check local veterinary clinics and emergency animal hospitals in case your dog requires care while you’re away.

Before Flying Overseas

Certain places prohibit dogs, and some foreign locations demand that dogs be placed in quarantine for a predetermined period of time once they arrive.

If you’ll be traveling abroad and will be taking your dog, be prepared to check the restrictions in each country you will visit, along with whether your dog can tolerate a quarantine or not.

Additionally, you should know what it takes for you to be allowed back into the United States. Note that pets traveling out of the country probably need a USDA-approved health certificate.

Booking Your Flight

Pets on flights are often allowed in quantities limited by the airline, so try to purchase your ticket well in advance. If at all possible, schedule a nonstop flight to save your dog’s day from being stressed out by having to change flights.

Consider the Possible Temperature on Travel Day

Know the season and the minimum and maximum temperature restrictions an airline will allow pets to fly in the cargo hold before you make your reservation. Some airlines won’t even accept a pet reservation in the cargo hold during certain times of the year.

 

Choose flying schedules in the early morning or late evening during the warm months. If the weather is colder, choose for midday flights. Steer clear of flying in extremely cold conditions with a dog.

Travel Day Checklist:

• To help prevent any mishaps while in the air, give your dog enough time to relieve themselves before the trip.
• Do not feed your dog for four hours prior to flying to prevent air sickness.
• Play with your dog prior to the flight or take them on a long, brisk walk. This will tire them out.
• Make sure your dog wears an up-to-date identification tag.
• Ensure that the microchip of your dog is current and up to date.
• Put some food, bowls, medication, a leash, and a harness in your dog’s travel bag.
• Inform all airline staff of your dog traveling in the cargo hold, including attendants and pilots.
• Keep a current photo of your animal companion with you always.
• Always travel with the health certificate for your dog on your person, especially when traveling abroad.
• Take calming vitamins or prescription medications with you from your veterinarian, as needed and directed by

Also Read : Running With Your Dog: Getting Started

Flying With a Large Dog

Unless they are a service animal, if you travel with a large breed, they will likely need to fly as checked luggage or in cargo rather than in-cabin. If so, try to select a date or time when it won’t be too hot or cold by seeing what the predicted outdoor temperatures will be.

The crate should be as long as your dog’s length from nose to tail plus half of his front length. Also, it should be twice as wide from shoulder to shoulder as your dog is tall while they are standing.

Flying With a Puppy

Keep in mind that most airlines require the puppy to be at least eight weeks old to fly and specifically request documents of complete vaccination history. First, ask your vet if they think your dog is ready to fly.

Get your puppy accustomed to staying in their travel crate weeks before the trip, if possible, and take them on a few short rides in your vehicle to get them used to it.