Everything You Need to Know About Flying With Your Pet In a Carrier

The Basics of Travelling with Your Pet by Air

If you’re planning a vacation that involves hopping on a plane with your furry friend in tow, you may be wondering about the best options for transporting your pet safely and comfortably. In this article, I’ll break down the main pet carrier choices for air travel and provide tips to help alleviate any stress that comes along with flying with pets.

Regulations on Pet Carriers

First, it’s important to understand the basic regulations set by airlines regarding pet carriers. Most domestic flights in the US only allow pets to travel in the aircraft cabin in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided carrier that fits completely under the seat in front of you. The carrier cannot take up any extra seat spaces. From my experience traveling with pets, I’ve found it’s best to allow a few extra inches of clearance to be safe.

The maximum size limitations vary by airline, but are usually around 18x14x8 inches or smaller. You’ll also need to provide current vaccination records and perhaps buy an extra airline ticket for your pet, depending on the rules. International flights often have additional requirements as well, so it’s crucial to check the specific policies for your itinerary well in advance.

Hard-Sided Carriers

Hard-sided carriers, like varieties made of plastic or metal, are generally the most sturdy option that provides maximum security and impact protection during flights. I’d recommend a hard carrier for long trips with multiple flight legs or transports involving cargo holds, which can see rougher handling.

Hard carriers tend to be heavier than other styles, though, which can pose challenges when maneuvering through airports. They also don’t allow for as much visibility, pets, and handlers as mesh or soft carriers. Prices range from $50 to well over $200 depending on size and brand. Some top brands to consider are Sherpa, Snoozer, and Petmate.

Soft-Sided Carriers

As an alternative, soft-sided carriers constructed of durable nylon or padded fabric blends can be great lighter weight choices for cabin flights. From my own journey, I’ve found they take up less luggage real estate and are handier when navigating tight spaces like planes and taxis. Look for reinforced seams and zippers for maximum durability.

Mesh windows allow your pet easy visibility without compromising security. At the same time, ventilation is improved compared to hard shells. Some trusted brands are Sleepypod, Oxgord, and AmazonBasics. Prices normally range from $30 upwards.

Backpack-Style Carriers

An unconventional but increasingly popular option is the backpack carrier. It distributes your pet’s weight evenly against your back for long airport walks. Plus, these hands-free styles open from the top rather than the side, which I’ve found makes it much easier to load and unload anxious pets without added stress.

Look for padded shoulder straps and back support for max comfort over miles. Well-designed options come from brands like Solvit Tags Along, Petego and PAWABOO. However, given that they don’t allow you to see or easily access your pet during flights, a backpack may not suit all animals or airline policies. Check first before assuming it’s allowed!

Choosing the Right Size

When picking out any carrier, an important factor is choosing the right dimensions. Going too small can cause stress from cramped quarters, while too large means wasted space and potential issues meeting airline restrictions. In general, the carrier should allow your pet to both sit and stand comfortably while also turning around.

For dogs, most experts recommend enough interior room that your pet can sit upright and turn around without their head touching the top. For cats, the carrier needs space for a comfortable bed, food and water dishes, and a litter box if it’s a long flight. Measure your pet and test carriers before buying to ensure the correct fit.

Training and Comfort Inside

Once you settle on a carrier, it’s crucial to get your pet used to it with positive association training well before any trips. Spend time feeding treats and praise near and inside the empty carrier over many sessions until they freely enter. Line the carrier with cozy blankets that smell like home to help calm anxiety.

For flights, pack water, a leash or harness (if required), favorite toys, and a note with your contact info on the outside of the carrier, just in case of separation. Consider calming aids like pheromone diffusers, calming treats, or medicines prescribed by your vet to help keep stress levels low for nervous fliers.

Planning Ahead for Boarding

Whether you’re checking your pet carrier at the gate or gate-checking for a connection, the process goes smoother when prepared. Label everything clearly with your information, avoid valuables inside, and ask your airline exactly where and when to drop off your pet. Arrive extra early since pets count as carry-on luggage and cause delays if unprepared.

It’s also smart to have papers listing vet contacts and vaccinations scanned and sent ahead in your email for quick reference if needed. Cross-check policies for any layovers too – pets may require extra paperwork or face quarantine if guidelines aren’t followed exactly. A little hassle upfront saves major problems down the line!

Watch for These Common Mistakes

In all my years working with pets, these are some of the biggest mistakes folks make when flying with pets:

1. Not reading carrier size rules carefully and showing up with one that’s too large
2. Leaving food, water or other non-essentials in the carrier that could spill during flights
3. Forgetting to bring vaccination records or not getting the required shots in time
4. Waiting till the day of travel to introduce pets to carriers for the first time
5. Relying only on in-cabin flights without a backup plan for animal that shows stress signs airborne

Avoiding these pitfalls goes a long way in ensuring a smooth trip with your furry friends. With preparation comes less stress all around.

Alternative Options If Needed

Of course, not all pets do well confined in aircraft cabins. If your pet seems especially anxious flyers, you have some other ground transportation options to consider instead:

• Drive yourself, stopping for rest breaks to let pets stretch legs and do their business
• Book pet-friendly hotels ahead of time for overnight driving routes
• Look into pet transport services that provide door-to-door ground transport
• Consider leaving pets in the care of pet sitters or boarding facilities near your destination

Weigh the costs and time investment versus your pet’s comfort needs. With the right precautions, many pets do manage well on planes. But don’t take chances with an obviously distressed flyer – their health comes first.

Final Prep Tips

To recap, here are some final thoughts on getting ready to board that flight with Fido or Fluffy:

1. Read ALL airline pet policies thoroughly to avoid surprises
2. Get carriers well ahead of trips to desensitize pets through training
3. Pack stress-relieving aids, water, leash/harness, and toys/blankets
4. Bring vet records and any required paperwork in order
5. Check your pet at the gate in time or arrange checked baggage drop-off
6. Be prepared to take alternative ground transportation if needed

Hopefully these tips help ease the process and provide some guidance on picking the right pet carrier option for your upcoming journey! Let me know if you have any other questions. Safe travels with your furry companion!

Choosing the Best Pet Carrier for Plane Travel

Carrier Type	Size	Weight Limit	Pros	Cons
Soft-sided	Small to Medium	To 15 lbs	Lightweight, breathable, easy to carry	Less sturdy, less protection
Hard-sided	All sizes	To most pet weights	Secure, protective, air travel approved	Heavier, more bulky
Backpack	Small	To 15 lbs	Hands-free, your pet is with you	Less room, not TSA approved
Collapsible	All sizes	To most pet weights	Space-saving for storage, transport	May not be as sturdy as hard-sided

FAQ

1. Can I bring my pet in a carrier on an airplane?

   Generally speaking, you sure can take Fido or Fluffy on the plane as long as they remain calm and quiet in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Most major airlines allow one pet per passenger in the cabin.

2. What size pet carrier is allowed on planes?

   Carriers must be able to fit completely under the seat, so around the dimensions of 17-19 inches by 13-15 inches. Anything bigger won’t work since there’s limited foot space. Check with your specific airline for exact size limits though – they might be a tad smaller or larger.

3. Do I need to buy my pet its own plane ticket?

   For the most part, yes – most airlines charge a fee per pet carrier that needs to be paid when booking your ticket. However, a few budget carriers like Southwest allow one pet per passenger to travel in cabin for free as long as it meets their regulations. Always confirm the policy ahead of time to avoid surprises.

4. Is my pet required to stay in the carrier on the plane?

   According to FAA rules, your pet basically has to remain inside its carrier for the full duration of the flight. The only time it can come out is briefly during boarding and deplaning when directly in your lap, otherwise it needs to stay caged up. This is primarily for the safety of passengers and crew.

5. What paperwork is needed to fly with a pet?

   At a minimum you’ll require: your pet’s vaccination records showing it is current, a health certificate from a vet within 10 days of travel, and an ID tag with your contact info on your pet’s collar. Check your airline’s site for a full checklist – some may need additional forms filled out. It’s always easier if you prepare well in advance.

However, before making any final decisions to take your furry friend flying, maybe check out alternatives like having a friend or family member care for them while you’re away. At the same time, flying with pets has become a regular occurrence on planes so if prepared properly, it shouldn’t be too stressful. Regardless of what you choose, your pet’s health and comfort should come first. On the other hand, if Fido has flown before without issues, you’ll most likely be okay to bring him along again.

What if my pet acts out on the plane?

If despite your best efforts little Rex starts barking or scratching non-stop in the carrier, some airlines will basically ask you to deboard before takeoff. Perhaps asking your vet for a mild sedative could help keep him chill – but check restrictions first. It’s better to leave anxious pets at home than risk getting kicked off the flight in my opinion.

Are emotional support animals allowed on planes?

This can be sort of tricky. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), airlines must allow service animals that provide support to passengers with disabilities like seeing eye dogs. However, emotional support animals which are not actually trained to perform tasks may or may not be accepted depending on the carrier – so it’s best to confirm their policy upfront. You may need documentation from a medical professional as well.

So in summary – flying with pets in the cabin is feasible if done correctly with the right preparation. But who knows, maybe Fido would agree some vacations are better spent apart, relaxing at home! Does anyone out there have experience bringing their own animals on planes? What was it like – a breeze, or a fur-raising adventure? I’m curious to know people’s stories before attempting it myself someday. My cat Mittens gets carsick easily so a plane ride seems like it would be totally amusing, or a disaster, depending on your perspective I guess!