The Basics: Can You Bring Fido Flying?
The short answer is yes, you can bring your doggo on a plane – both domestic and international flights allow canine passengers. But there are some important rules and restrictions to know before you take Rover airborne.
Size and Breed Restrictions
- Dogs must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you.
- This generally means the carrier cannot exceed 18 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches high.
- Some large and “bulky” breeds like Saint Bernards may not meet the size restrictions even in a carrier.
Health Requirements
- Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old.
- They need proof of current rabies vaccination.
- Some countries also require a health certificate verifying the pup is free of contagious diseases.
From my experience traveling internationally with my mini goldendoodle, the vet paperwork is kinda annoying but super important – you don’t want to get to the border and learn Fido is missing some shots! Better to get that stuff sorted way ahead of time.
Preparing Your Pooch for Takeoff
Even if Rover is usually chill, flying can be totally stressful. Here are some tips to get your dog acclimated:
Carrier Training
Start early getting your dog comfortable going in and out of their carrier. Practice short “stay” sessions inside and reward them with treats. Avoid forcing them in if they seem freaked.
Get Them Used to Noise
Pop your pup in their carrier and play recordings of airplane sounds on your phone so the roar of the engines isn’t a total shock. Kind of like desensitization training.
Consider a Calming Aid
Vet-approved calming supplements or pheromone sprays can take the edge off for anxious flyers. Try them in short sessions at home first though – you don’t want Fido totally zonked on the plane!
The day before our trip, I gave Spock one of those thundershirt things to kind of hug and calm him. Seemed to do the trick! Just read directions carefully.
Packing Pro Tips For Flying With Fido
In addition to all the usual people stuff, here’s what to pack canine passengers:
FDA-Approved Carrier
An approved soft-sided or hard-sided carrier needs to fit securely under the seat. Consider one with mesh sides for ventilation and visibility.
Water and Food
Bring bowls, but know that on many flights, dogs must remain in carriers during meals. Also pack extra water just in case of delays.
Paper Towels or Puppy Pads
Don’t make the other passengers hate you – bring supplies in case an accident occurs mid-flight. Bags for waste pick-up too!
Comfort Items
Bring a familiar blanket or toy from home. Don’t want poor Fido stressing without their fave chew bone!
Documents
Have copies of immunization records, health certificate, and airline confirmation on hand. TSA might want to see ’em.
Oh, and one more thing – pack your own snacks. Airport and plane food is basic, but people chow helps you power through delays with Fido. I always bring trail mix!
What to Expect At the Airport
Airport procedures for canine passengers can vary, so check airline policies and be prepared for:
– Checking in early since some airlines board dogs as cargo before humans board
– Health screenings from agricultural officials upon arrival in some countries
– Keeping your puppy contained and leashed at all times in public areas
– Possible bag screening for the carrier
Despite some unpredictable hassles, most of my flights with dogs have gone smoothly. The crew is usually pretty dog-friendly too! Just be respectful of other passengers who may not love barking from the row behind.
Speaking of other passengers, it’s a kind gesture to wipe down the area around your seat afterwards since excited dogs sometimes shed. Gotta keep everyone flying friendly, right?
In-Flight Tips For You And Your Pooch
Once airborne, focus on keeping your doggo calm and comfortable. A few things that usually work:
Give Them Reassuring Attention
Talk or sing to your pup in a calm, happy voice. Gentle petting can help reduce stress.
Distract With Chew Toys or Treats
Keep them occupied with safe, fun toys instead of worrying. Small training treats work as positive reinforcement too.
Avoid Overstimulation
Try to minimize noise and activity around their carrier. Too much excitement could freak them out more.
Give Them Space When Needed
Some dogs just wanna nap. Respect anxious signals and give them quiet time if that seems to calm them better than coddling.
Based on my experience with Spock, frequent tiny training sessions and brief play periods in-flight kept him happily tired rather than anxious. The key is really paying attention to your individual dog’s signals!
Arriving At Your Destination
Upon landing, be prepared for:
– Potential inspections at foreign customs
– Quarantine in some locations if documents aren’t in order
– Calling a taxi or rideshare for human/dog transport instead of public transit
– Taking your pooch straight home for rest after the journey
Whether you’re traveling stateside or overseas, following guidelines and preparing your pup properly makes flying with dogs way less stressful for everyone involved. Safe travels to you and your furry co-pilot!
Requirements for Bringing Your Dog on a Plane
| Airline | Size & Breed Restrictions | Crate Requirement | Vaccination Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | Small or medium dogs under 20 lbs. | Hard-sided crate required. | Rabies, DHLPP vaccination within 1 year. |
| Delta | No restrictions on size or breed. | Hard-sided crate required. | Rabies vaccination within 1 year. |
| United | No snub-nosed or brachycephalic breeds. | Hard-sided crate required. | Rabies vaccination within 1 year. |
| Alaska Airlines | No size or breed restrictions. | Soft-sided carrier allowed or hard-sided crate. | Rabies vaccination within 1 year. |
| JetBlue | No pit bulls. Other sizes and breeds allowed. | Hard-sided crate required. | Rabies vaccination within 1 year. |
FAQ
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Can I bring my dog on the plane in the cabin?
Most major airlines allow you to bring your small dog or cat in the cabin as long as they stay in a carrier under the seat for the whole flight. However, some airlines limit the number of pets per flight or charge a fee. It’s best to check the specific rules for your airline in advance.
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What paperwork do I need for my dog on a flight?
To fly with your dog in cabin, you will need proof that they are up to date on all vaccinations like rabies and typically a health certificate from your vet within 10 days of your flight. The airline may ask to see this paperwork at check-in. It’s a good idea to keep copies in your carry-on just in case.
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What size carrier can I use for my dog on the plane?
Most airlines require your dog’s carrier to fit completely under the seat in front of you without sticking out into the aisle. Carriers usually cannot exceed roughly 18 inches tall by 14 inches wide by 8 inches deep. It’s best to double check your specific airline’s size limits to make sure your pet carrier will meet requirements.
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How do I keep my dog calm on a plane?
To help keep your doggo calm and quiet aboard the aircraft, you may want to consider giving them a calming aid from the vet beforehand. Also, be sure to take them for a long walk and use the restroom right before boarding. Within the cabin, bring familiar toys or treats to keep them occupied. Whisper reassurance and try not to overreact if they become stressed during take-off or landing.
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Can I travel internationally with my dog?
Taking your pooch on an international trip usually requires even more planning and paperwork compared to domestic travel. You will need things such as health records, a vaccination timeline, a vet-issued travel health certificate, and possibly a microchip. Countries like Australia, New Zealand and France also require a quarantine period for pets upon arrival. It’s best to research all entry requirements for your destination well in advance.
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Is it safer to fly my dog as cargo?
While flying in the cabin allows you to keep a close eye on your furry companion, some folks worry that carrying a pet on board may stress them out too much. Putting them in the cargo hold is kind of like checking a bag – out of sight, out of mind – but down there it can get loud and there’s less climate control. As long as the kennel laws are followed, statistics-wise it seems cargo is basically just as safe as the cabin. But you do lose the ability to comfort them yourself.
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What if my dog acts up on the plane?
Even usually well-behaved doggos can get freaked out by the unfamiliar atmosphere aboard a plane. If they start barking excessively in the cabin, an air crew member may ask you to adjust anything stressing them out or consider relocating to a quieter area like the back. In extremely rare cases, an unruly animal may even need to be “benched” in the cargo hold for the duration of the flight. It’s in everyone’s best interest that we all do our part to keep the peace at 30,000 feet!