Your Complete Guide to Traveling With Your Dog by Air
If you’re planning a vacation with Fido in tow, air travel is one of the biggest considerations. In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about using dog crates for airline travel so you and your pooch can fly with ease.
Why Do Airlines Require Dog Crates?
- Safety – Dog crates provide a safe, secure space for your dog during takeoff, landing, and turbulence when they may feel anxious or unstable on their paws.
- Control – Crates prevent dogs from freely roaming the passenger cabin and potentially disturbing other travelers or crew members.
- Health – Crates contain any accidents and minimize the spread of illnesses among canine passengers.
From an airline’s perspective, crates are basically a no-brainer. But I know as a dog owner, it can kinda feel like a hassle! Fear not – with the right prep, crate training becomes a breeze.
Picking the Perfect Crate
When choosing a crate, go for one that’s just big enough for your pup to stand up and turn around in. Anything much bigger risks them using one corner as a bathroom! I’d also sort of recommend getting a soft-sided fabric crate. In my experience, dogs seem less freaked out by the flexible material than hard plastic sides.
You’ll also want to choose a crate that meets the airline’s size guidelines. Most major carriers allow crates up to size limits of 20x22x24 inches. Always double check the rules for your airline though – I’ve been surprised before!
Crate Training Made Simple
The key is taking crate training slowly. Basically start by just having your pup’s favorite toy and a treat inside for short periods. Kind of make it their happy place. After a few days, work up to closing the door for a minute while they gnaw a bully stick. Amazingly, within a couple weeks, most pups learn to love hanging in their “den.”
My big guy took to it immediately. But I have a friend whose hound wanted nothing to do with her crate for months! Every pup is different. Basically just remain chill and positive during training.
Additional Prep Tips
Familiar scents: Bring a well-worn t-shirt or blanket from home to make the crate smell familiar.
Calming aids: Consider calming treats, diffusers, or music tailored for dogs to help keep them relaxed.
Proof the latch: Inspect that the crate’s latch is secure and can’t accidentally pop open mid-flight. Yikes!
Comfort items: Add a favorite toy or chew to occupy them. But nothing they could tear off and ingest!
Soft bedding: Use old towels or puppy pads rather than fluffy blankets prone to accidents.
The more you can do to prepare your pup, the smoother the whole flying experience will go. Kind of a win-win!
What to Expect at the Airport
On travel day, allow extra time for check-in. Don’t forget documents like flight reservations, health records, and vaccinations. I’ve heard horror stories of owners missing flights due to disorganized docs!
Most carriers will accept crated dogs either in the cabin or cargo hold depending on size. However, avoid baggage at all costs due to risks of loss, delays, and extreme temperatures.
You’ll also need to check if your destination has any quarantine or import rules. Maybe a pet passport is required? Sort all that jazz out ahead of time to save major stress.
Once at the gate, treat seated passengers respectfully by keeping your pooch well-behaved and interactions brief. I’ve seen dogs outright denied due to nuisance behaviors before. No bueno!
Finally, take advantage of any opportunities to walk or potty your pup before boarding. Trust me – you don’t want any mid-flight surprises in that tiny space. Ew, am I right?
In-Flight Expectations
On the plane, make sure your pooch’s crate is securely stowed either under the seat in front of you, or in an overhead compartment away from high foot traffic or sharp objects. Mostly just follow crew directions.
Dogs can’t handle pressure changes in their ears like humans, so they may seem anxious during take-off and landing. Kind of be prepared with calming aids if needed, patience, and reassurance.
It’s also a good idea to bring extra water, just in case long flight delays leave both you and pup parched. Not fun! And don’t forget a leash, poo bags, chews, and anything else to pass the time. A bored dog is a barking dog, after all.
With any luck, your fur baby will sleep most of the flight. But be ready to swap toys/treats if activity is needed. Remember – just one hassle-free passenger makes all the difference to those around you. You’ve got this!
Landing and Beyond
Once on the ground, head straight for the potty area. Maybe bribe your pup with praise or treats afterwards. At this stage in the journey, hurry is your ally against accidents!
With international trips, you may even face dreaded customs inspections. Just sit tight, be polite, and hope for a smooth clearance. If all goes well, it’s time for vacation cuddles at last!
To be honest, air travel with dogs definitely has its share of hiccups. But with careful prep and consideration of others, you and your pup should cruise right on through like pros. Safe lands and happy trails, fellow pet parents! Let’s fly together in peace.
Dog Crate Options for Airline Travel
| Crate Size | Dimensions | Weight Limit | Airline Approval |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 24″ x 18″ x 19″ | Up to 20 lbs | Most airlines |
| Medium | 27″ x 21″ x 23″ | 20-40 lbs | Most airlines |
| Large | 30″ x 24″ x 25″ | 40-70 lbs | Most airlines |
| Extra Large | 36″ x 24″ x 27″ | 70-100 lbs | Most airlines with size limitations |
| Collapsible | Folds down small | Varies | Most airlines if meets size when collapsed |
| Soft-Sided | Fits animal’s shape | Varies | Most but check airline restrictions |
FAQ
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Can I bring my dog’s crate on the airline?
Yeah basically airlines allow small and medium sized dog crates as carry-on baggage. Just be sure to check the size limits for your flight. The crate needs to be able to fit under the seat in front of you.
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What size crate is suitable for airline travel?
Most airlines let you bring a crate that measures up to around 20 inches by 16 inches by 8 inches. Any bigger than that and it may need to be checked into the cargo hold instead of coming on board with you. I’d say a medium size wire crate fits the bill for many small dog breeds.
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Do I need to check my dog’s crate at the airport?
It depends. If the crate is too big to fit as a carry-on, then yeah you’ll have to check it like any other luggage. However, at the same time some people feel more comfortable keeping smaller crates with them on the plane. I’d check with your specific airline just to be sure of their rules.
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What do I do if my dog is afraid of the crate?
If your pup sort of freaks out over getting into their crate, it’s a good idea to get them used to it before travel day. Basically spend time feeding them treats near the open crate, working up to putting treats inside to build positive associations. You could also put a worn t-shirt inside that smells like you for comfort. With some training most dogs get over initial crate shyness.
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Won’t it be stressful for my dog in the crate?
It may seem that way, but keeping them secured is really for their safety and yours during the unpredictable flight. The crate provides a den-like space that can be comforting. Despite doubts, as long as your pup is crate trained, it’s often less stressful than being loose in a crowded cabin. Just be sure to bring toys and calming aids.
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What else do I need to consider for air travel with a dog crate?
Aside from proper paperwork and vet records, it’s good to label the outside of the crate with your contact info. You’ll also need water, a leash, poop bags, and maybe a lightweight blanket. I’d also bring a note from your vet saying your dog is healthy and up to date on shots. Although it’s a bit of a process, flying with pets in crates can work out pretty well if you plan ahead!