Your Guide to Traveling with Dogs by Air
If you want to take your furry friend along on your next vacation but don’t have room in the car, flying with dogs is an option. However, there are some important things to know to make sure your pup stays safe and comfortable during the journey. In this article, I’ll cover all the basics of airline travel for dogs, from choosing the right carrier to tips for making it through security checks and boarding. By the end, you’ll be prepared for a smooth trip with your canine co-pilot!
Picking the Perfect Carrier
The first crucial step is selecting an airline-approved carrier for your dog. All carriers must be soft-sided and allow your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Look for carriers labeled as “airline approved” or “FA (in-cabin) approved.”
- Backpack carrier: This type attaches over your shoulders like a backpack, keeping your hands free. It works well for small to medium dogs up to about 15 pounds. From my experience, backpacks provide the smoothest ride for nervous flyers.
- Soft-sided carrier: Traditional soft carriers have handles for carrying. They accommodate a wider range of small to medium dog sizes. I prefer these for dogs over 15 pounds as they distribute the weight evenly.
Avoid any hard plastic or metal carriers, as these do not meet airline standards. Always check size restrictions too – most carriers cannot exceed 18 x 13 x 8 inches or be over 20 pounds total with your dog inside.
Booking Your Seat and Dog
When making flight reservations, be sure to mention your dog as carry-on baggage. Most airlines require you to purchase an extra “pet ticket” for travel in the cabin, usually $125-250 each way depending on the airline. At the same time, book a window or aisle seat if possible so you have room under the seat in front of you for the carrier.
Get any required health documents in order like vaccination records. Carriers also need two ID tags with your contact info in case you get separated. I’ve had situations where tags saved my pup’s day. It’s well worth taking these precautions.
Preparing for the Big Day
A few days before your flight, start getting your dog used to the carrier. Leave it out for them to explore, give treats near it, and work up to short practice trips inside. On the day of travel, make sure to withhold food for at least 3 hours before the flight to avoid any accidents. Consider calming supplements or your vet’s advice too.
At the airport, either carry or check your dog’s supplies like food, water, toys, and bed in your regular luggage. Only small plastic bags of food or water are allowed in flight for your dog. Make sure any medications are clearly labeled and bring the prescription if needed.
Don’t forget your patience! Flying is stressful for everyone. With preparation and TLC, you and your pup will be on your way to fun in the sun before you know it. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Going Through Security
Once at the gate, it’s time for security screening. Have your boarding pass and dog’s documents ready. When going through the metal detector, you may need to remove your dog from the carrier. In that case, simply hold them or have them walk through calmly on a leash. TSA officers are used to screening dogs so try to stay chill – your pup will pick up on your energy.
They may want to do a physical pat-down of your carrier, which is standard procedure. I always use positive reinforcement like treats during checks to help my dog stay relaxed. These extra precautions are for everyone’s safety, so it’s best to be understanding and cooperate fully with the process.
Once through, relax in the gate area with your pup. Offer water if needed. When boarding time comes, most airlines board dogs and their humans early or last to avoid stresses. With a bit of focus and rewards, the woes of security will seem basically behind you both. Before you know it, you’ll be cozied up 35,000 feet in the air!
In-Flight Comfort and Care
On the plane, keep your dog crated under the seat in front of you for take-off and landing when movement can be bumpy. During level flight, you may allow them in your lap if it seems calmer than the carrier. Bring plenty of chews, toys and attention to keep them occupied.
Be sure to take occasional short potty breaks on long flights over 3 hours. Let flight attendants know if your pup seems restless. They may suggest strategies like gentle petting or a blanket over the carrier. Consider bringing a pee pad too as accidents can happen, especially in turbulent air. I always bring extra just in case!
Stay hydrated yourself so you have energy, then offer sips of water to your dog every few hours. Complimentary sniffing pads are available on some airlines to reduce stress. If all else fails, contact a vet once you land for tips next time. But mostly, be patient. Before you know it, you’ll be touching down and on to new adventures together!
Arriving at Your Destination
So in summary – choose the right sized carrier, book early with pet tickets, prepare your pup, relax through security, monitor them in flight, and you’ll arrive refreshed and ready for fun! Of course, individual dogs vary so see what works best from your own experience. With some understanding of the process, success is basically guaranteed. Let me know if any other questions come up as you plan your pet-friendly getaway. Safe travels to you both!
Choosing the Right Carrier Backpack for Your Dog on an Airplane
| Backpack Feature | Important Considerations |
|---|---|
| Size | Make sure the backpack is appropriately sized for your dog’s weight and breed |
| Ventilation | Look for breathable mesh panels to keep your dog comfortable |
| Comfort | Padded straps and a padded base will reduce stress on your dog |
| Adjustability | Straps that can be tightened or loosened make a good fit for growth or coat seasonal changes |
| Airline Approval | Only carriers officially approved by the IATA can be used in the cabin |
FAQ
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What sizes are airline dog carrier backpacks available in?
Most carriers come in two basic sizes – small and medium. Small is best for toy breeds weighing under 10 pounds. Medium fits dogs up to about 15 pounds. I guess the size you need depends on your pup’s dimensions!
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Are they comfortable for dogs to be in for long flights?
While it’s not the same as having room to stretch their legs, most carrier backpacks aim to ensure your doggy pal is cozy despite being a bit cramped. As long as Fido isn’t stuck inside for a super-long haul flight, the padding and breathing holes help keep him fairly content. I’d say under 5 hours is generally alright according to the experts.
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Won’t my dog be scared being confined that way?
It’s possible, but with the right training your pup can learn to feel secure inside his carrier. Getting him used to it at home before the big trip helps a lot. Bring treats and toys to keep him occupied and distracted too. Maybe have the vet give him a calming aid if he seems nervous. Communication is key – stay positive and your pooch will probably do just fine!
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What about bathroom breaks on long flights?
Admittedly, not being able to let your doggy out to potty on a transatlantic flight poses a real challenge. However, most airline regulations allow you to take your pup out of the carrier for short walks once the cabin doors close. You’ll have to be quick though. Otherwise, there are always pee pads and cleaning supplies as a sort of backup plan. Be prepared for any canine “accidents”!
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Aren’t airline backpack carriers a hassle to use?
While they do require a bit more effort than just carrying a handbag, the backpack style offers hands-free convenience onboard. As long as your pup is secure inside, you’ll have mobility to grab snacks or use the loo yourself. Practice putting him in and taking him out before your trip so the whole process is less of a drag. With some getting used to, the carrier could basically become second nature.
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Is it worth the money to buy one?
At around $100-200 a pop depending on brand and size, an airline-approved doggy backpack is certainly not cheap. However, as an alternative to booking your dog as cargo or leaving them at home, it arguably saves money in the long run. Plus it spares your furry friend stress they don’t deserve. As long as you get several years of use out of it for future flights, I’d say the investment into peace of mind is probably worthwhile. But is it worth it? Only you can decide!