What do I need to do to get my dog certified to fly?

Basically, you need to get your dog accustomed to traveling in a crate. Take them on car rides and get them used to being in their crate for longer periods of time. You’ll also need to make sure your dog is well-behaved and can handle noises like baggage carts without freaking out. Finally, you’ll need to get them acrtified through an organization like the International Air Transport Association (IATA). They’ll evaluate your dog to make sure they can fly safely.n

How do I train my dog for the IATA evaluation?

You’ll want to start training your dog early. Get them used to being handled, having their collars grabbed, nails trimmed, ears and mouth examined without issue. Practice crate training and get them calm staying in their crate for long periods. The evaluation involves things like observing their behavior around other dogs and distractions too. So work on obedience training and getting them to ignore other animals at the vet office. Approach it gradually with lots of rewards and praise.n

What’s involved in the actual IATA evaluation?

The evaluation is performed by a certified behaviorist. They’ll observe how your dog acts around things like equipment, noises, and other dogs at the airport. Your pup needs to remain calm and not try escaping their crate during the whole process. Their stress levels are monitored too. Some other tests may involve things such as seeing if they’ll let a stranger examine them in the crate. They basically want to make sure your dog can fly without becoming disruptive or dangerous to passengers or crew.n

How much does certification typically cost?

The fee for the actual evaluation can vary based on where you live but usually falls between $125-$250. You’ll also need to pay for training classes and preparation beforehand which could add several hundred more. Then factor in expenses like crates, clothing/labels, and an yearly renewal fee too. So all in all, it takes an investment of perhaps $500+ to get Rover properly trained and certified for air travel. Though for many people it’s worth it to fly with their precious pooch!n

What kind of containers and safety gear is required?

Dogs must fly in special hard-sided kennels that are IATA-approved and labeled with tags showing the dog has passed certification. The crate cannot exceed certain dimension and weight limits either. You’ll need to provide food, water dishes, and even ice packs for summer flights. Dogs must wear a collar or harness at all times along with ID tags. Muzzles aren’t absolutely necessary but are sometimes required depending on breed or demeanor. Proper documents proving vaccinations are a must too.

Can you tell me more about what flying is like for dogs?

The experience may appear kinda scary for poor pooches nevertheless most make it through okay if properly prepared. The crate provides a safe den but the sounds can surely be startling at first. Most pups whimper a little during takeoff yet calm down after. The crew is often rather gentle and caring toward pup passengers. At the same time, long flights can be tiring without exercise stops. Luckily laws now demand breaks for water. With everything considered though, dogs seem to tolerate flying way better than people do! What do experts think – do our furry friends really mind air travel so much?n

What if my dog is nervous or doesn’t like their crate?

If your pupgo gets anxious or hates their carrier, certification may be kind of a stretch. Fortunately you can usually ship through ground methods as an alternative. But it involves more preparation – like making sure Fido is well exercised before traveling and providing extra pee stops. Sedation is sometimes allowed too as a last resort during a vet exam. Overall its probably best finding methods your particular pooch feels most comfortable. Maybe they’d sort of prefer riding shotgun with a companion! But I ain’t no expert – anyone have further thoughts?n

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