Air Travel Crate for Dogs: A Complete Guide to Keeping Your Pet Safe and Comfortable During Flights

Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Air Travel Crate for Your Furry Companion

Whether you’re taking a vacation across the country or just visiting family a few states over, traveling by air with your dog can seem like a hassle. However, with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be so bad. One of the most important things you’ll need is an air travel crate that meets airline regulations and keeps your pup safe, secure, and as comfortable as possible during the journey. Below you’ll find answers to all your questions about picking out the ideal airline-approved dog crate.

What Size Crate Do I Need?

1. Measure your dog from nose to tail to determine their length.
2. Add an extra 2-4 inches of space so they aren’t crammed in too tightly.
3. Most standard sizes available are 22x22x22 inches for small dogs, 24x24x24 inches for medium dogs, and 26x26x30 inches for large dogs.

Keep in mind, the crate must be large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around fully inside. But get one that’s not too big either, as extra empty space could allow them to get tossed around more on bumpy flights. From my experience traveling with dogs, choosing the “just right” size crate makes for a much smoother trip.

Which Features Should I Look For?

When selecting an air travel crate, consider these important factors:

Ventilation: The crate needs openings on at least two sides and top for adequate airflow. Plastic crates allow better visibility and ventilation than wooden ones.

Sturdy Construction: Look for strong metal or airline-grade plastic that can withstand baggage handlers without breaking or warping. Wood crates may crack or splinter more easily.

Handles: Top and side carrying handles make transporting the heavy crate in and out of vehicles and planes less strenuous. Telescoping handles are ideal for varying heights.

Restraint Systems: Seat belts, straps, D-rings and buckles enable safely securing the crate during travel. They should be easy for you to operate one-handed.

Pad/Blanket: Some crates include a comfortable pad or blanket to make the surface softer. Bring your dog’s favorite blanket for added familiar smells and comfort too.

Getting a high-quality crate that checks all these boxes, like the popular Petmate Sky Kennel, will help ensure a safe flight for your furry friend.

How Do I Train My Dog To Be Okay With Going In?

Here are some ways to prepare your pup:

1. Start feeding your dog in their crate with the door open. This creates positive associations.
2. Toss treats inside to encourage exploration and retrieve games to make it a fun zone.
3. Work up to closing the door for short periods, like 30 seconds at first, and reward with treats when they remain calm.
4. Practice longer sessions over several training sessions before your trip.
5. Bring well-loved toys and familiar blanket to make the crate feel homelike.

With patience and positive reinforcement, you can help your dog learn to feel safe and comfortable inside their airline crate. Asking for tips from your vet can also ease any training struggles. A smoothly crate-trained pup means no stress for traveling day.

What Else Do I Need To Know?

Here are some additional air travel tips:

– Measure crates at the airport in advance to ensure they meet size limits and you don’t have to check a bag last minute.

– Consider practicing loading and unloading your dog in the crate before your trip to desensitize them.

– Sedating drugs require a veterinary prescription and should only be used as a last resort if flying really amps up your dog’s anxiety. Natural calming aids may help more.

– Bring along documents like vaccination records in a plastic sleeve for TSA checks. And use sturdy leashes to guide energetic pups through security stations and terminals.

– Notify the airline of travel plans in advance so they’re prepared for special handling of your precious cargo. Some carriers charge added pet fees.

With the right crate, training, and preparation, air travel need not torment your trusty companion. With diligent care, even timid pups can fly comfortably beside you to faraway places. Safe travels to you and your furry friend!

Factors To Consider When Choosing An Air Travel Crate For Your Dog

Size	Durability	Ventilation	Ease of Cleaning	Noise Level
Choose a crate size that allows your dog to stand up and turn around comfortably but is not too large to take up excess cargo space.	Look for heavy-duty materials like aluminum or thick plastic that can withstand being tossed, turned and placed in cargo holds.	Vents on multiple sides and tops are important to keep air circulating for your dog’s comfort and safety.	Removable pans, washable fabrics and easy-clean surfaces make cleaning accidents and messes straightforward.	Padding, covers and designs that dampen noise can help reduce stress for your dog.
Small, medium or large depending on your dog’s breed and size.	Avoid flimsy or low-quality plastic or wire crates.	Covers should have mesh or larger cut-out vents.	Avoid fabrics or pads that cannot be laundered easily.	Thick walls and tight seals hush outside noises.
Measure your dog and only accept an inch or two of extra space.	Look for sturdy, corrosion-resistant locks and latches.	Vent locations away from drafts or direct sunlight are best.	Dishwasher-safe parts save time over hand-washing everything.	Covers and padding muffle loud barks or whines.

FAQ

1. Can dogs travel by air in cargo holds?

   Yes, dogs can definitely fly in the cargo hold of airplanes. Most airlines allow small dogs and cats to travel this way as long as they are in an FAA-approved travel crate. Larger dogs may need a larger crate that meets certain size standards.

2. What type of crate should I use?

   The ideal crate for air travel is one that is specifically made for this purpose. Look for a “hard-sided” crate that has been crash-tested and certified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Soft-sided carriers and ordinary pet crates do not provide enough protection for cargo hold travel.

3. How big should the crate be?

   The crate needs to be sizable enough for your pup to stand up, turn around, and lie down in comfortably. However, it should not be so big that the dog has extra space to move around during turbulence. Generally the rule is they should have enough room to sit up but not much more. Measure first before buying!

4. Won’t it be scary for my dog?

   It can certainly be worrying for dogs to travel this way. Yet many pups handle it just fine with the right preparation. Try getting them used to the crate before flights with positive treats and toys. Also, talk with your vet about sedation options if needed. On the other hand, in-cabin travel may also cause some dogs undue stress.

5. How do I prepare for travel?

   Read FAA and airline regulations very carefully before traveling with a dog. Make sure vaccinations are up to date, and get the proper health certificates from your vet signed off within 10 days of travel. Attach ID tags on collars too. Pack favorite toys/blankets and bowl for water in the crate. Using pee pads is a good idea too in case of delays.

6. What if my dog doesn’t like the carrier?

   If your dog totally hates going in the travel crate and basically causes quite a stir when near it, air travel may not be the best option. However, maybe with more positive conditioning they may kind of learn to cope with it. Talk with your vet about possible herbal relaxation aids or something to help lessen stress and anxiety if needed. Boarding may be a less difficult alternative for very nervous pups.