Choosing the Perfect Dog Carrier for Plane Travel
If you’re like many pet owners who love taking their furry companions along on trips, finding the right dog carrier for air travel is crucial. With so many options in various sizes and styles, it can be tough to know which one best suits your needs and your pooch. In this article, I’ll break down the key factors to consider and provide tips based on my experience flying with dogs over the years. By the end, you’ll have all the info you need to pick the perfect carrier.
Carrier Size
The first and most important thing to consider is size. Make sure the carrier is big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably – but no bigger, as that just means more weight to lug around. Your dog’s measurements and the maximum dimensions aircraft allow will determine the size carrier you need.
Most airlines require dog carriers to fit under the seat in front of you, so pay close attention to height, length and width limits. For example, many carriers designed to fit under an airplane seat max out around 18x13x9 inches. Measure your pup carefully before choosing a size. Something too small could mean a miserable flight for Fido!
Materials
Carriers come in hard-sided plastic or soft-sided fabric varieties. Both have pros and cons. Hard plastic is more durable but heavier, while fabric is lighter but less sturdy. Consider your dog – wiggly escape artists may do better with rigid plastic while calm canines can likely handle fabric. Either way, look for puncture-proof materials to protect your pooch.
Design Features
- Ventilation: Very important! Make sure the carrier has multiple openings to allow airflow without your pet getting its paw stuck. Mesh is safest.
- Durability: Reinforced stress points, zippers, clasps, etc. prevent leakage and prolong the carrier’s lifespan through many travels.
- Padding: A well-padded interior adds comfort during taxiing, takeoff and landing jostling.
- Handle: Carrying the carrier long-distances is easier with a padded, ergonomic handle or harness.
- Straps: Secure closure straps with multiple adjustment points ensure a safe, comfy fit for your pet.
Special Needs
Some dogs have unique requirements. Pups prone to motion sickness may need airflow and a water-resistant pad. Smaller breeds or elderly pets benefit from extra padding and coziness. Carriers accommodating treats, toys or even diapers can make long flights more pleasant. Meanwhile, large or strong dogs warrant very durable materials. Consider your pet’s traits when choosing features.
Cost
Quality carriers naturally cost more but remember – you get what you pay for, especially with your dog’s safety and comfort in mind. Cheap carriers sometimes use subpar materials or skimp on critical details. Spend a little extra for peace of mind. That said, you don’t need to spend a fortune either. Do your research to spot the most reasonably priced option that still meets all your pet’s requirements.
Testing It Out
Once you’ve selected a carrier, get your dog accustomed to it before the big trip. Let them explore it at home, offer treats inside, and work up to short practice sessions with the carrier door closed. Gradually increase time spent inside over days or weeks. On the plane, a calm dog is less stressed and disruptive to others. The carrier should feel safe and cozy rather than a form of confinement by flight day.
Additional Tips
From my experience flying many years with cats and dogs, here are a few extra points to keep in mind:
- Bring familiar toys, blankets or clothing items that carry your dog’s scent for comfort.
- Pack antibarking plugins or calming treats if your dog tends to vocalize when anxious.
- Verify carrier regulations and docs needed like health forms well in advance of travel dates.
- Consider renting a carrier through services like PetBridge to avoid baggage fees – just be sure to thoroughly clean it first!
- During layovers when possible, it’s nice to let your pup potty, stretch, and refresh in the carrier.
I hope this breakdown of the key factors to examine helps you select the perfect airline-approved carrier for your furry friend. Remember that their contentment is the ultimate goal. With the right size, materials, features and preparation using these tips, you’ll both feel secure and comfortable for smoother flying together.
Let me know if any other dog carrier questions come up. Safe travels to you and your pup!
Choosing the Right Size Dog Carrier for Air Travel
| Dog Size | Recommended Carrier Size | Airline Under Seat Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Small (less than 20 lbs) | Small (10x12x8 inches or smaller) | Fits completely under most airline seats |
| Medium (20-40 lbs) | Medium (18x13x9 inches) | Fits completely under some airline seats |
| Large (40-70 lbs) | Large (20x16x12 inches) | May fit under some airline seats if dog is very calm |
| Extra Large (over 70 lbs) | Airline approved size for cargo hold | Too large for the cabin. Must travel in cargo hold as checked baggage. |
FAQ
- What size dog carrier should I bring on a plane? Most airlines let you bring a dog carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. So a carrier measuring around 18x13x8 inches or less will basically work for many planes. Just double check with your specific airline.
- Is there a weight limit for carriers? Some airlines do have a weight limit for carriers containing pets. Usually it’s around 20 pounds or less including the weight of the dog. Always verify the policy of your airline to be safe.
- Can I bring a larger crate as luggage? At the same time, the good news is airlines will sometimes let you check a bigger crate as baggage. As long as it fits in the cargo hold, it ought to be allowed. Just be prepared to pay a fee.
- What if my dog is too big for under the seat? If unfortunately your pup is too big to fit under the seat in front of you, you may have to purchase them their own ticket. On the other hand, some airlines offer “lip service” where a slightly too big dog can ride in the cargo hold.
- Won’t my dog be afraid in the crate? Perhaps you’re right to worry about your pets being scared. Maybe try calming treats or see if the airline will let you bring the carrier on board beforehand so they get used to it. Still, many pooches seem to feel safer cruising in their familiar carrier.
- What else do I need to pack? Don’t forget extras like pee pads, wipes, a leash, food, water and bowls, chew toys or blankets. Also bring ID tags and vet records in case they get lost. But who knows, with all that you may need a second suitcase just for your pup!
- Any tips for flying with anxious dogs? Experts suggest getting your dog acclimated to the carrier before travel day. Desensitize them to noises on youtube too. On the day, avoid anxiety-triggering people and places like busy airports. Some swear by calming vests or pheromone sprays as well. I guess anything to keep Fido from freaking out, right?
So in summary – check airline policies, use an appropriately sized carrier, and do whatever prep work relieves stress for you and your doggo. With some care and patience, traveling by plane can still be possible even for our furry friends. But what do the experts say? Maybe someone out there knows even better ways to fly with anxious pups.