Find the Perfect Flight Crate for Your Flying Pet – Dog flight crate buying guide and reviews

Everything You Need to Know About Dog Flight Crates

As a frequent flier with my furry companion, I’ve learned a lot over the years about safely transporting dogs on planes. If you’re wondering how to select, use and register a proper pet crate for flying, you’re in the right place. In this article, I’ll answer all your dog crate questions so your pup travels comfortably and complies with airline regulations.

Why Use a Dog Crate for Air Travel?

1. Safety – A crate provides containment to prevent your dog from wandering or getting injured during takeoff, landing and turbulence when they may be stressed.
2. Comfort – Many dogs find it reassuring to have a den-like space. It also prevents them from being stepped on in the cargo hold.
3. Compliance – The major airlines require dogs to fly in approved travel crates that meet size, security, and ventilation standards.

From my experience traveling with dogs, using a crate is the safest and calmest option for both you and your pet. While it may seem restrictive, most dogs settle right in once they realize it’s their safe personal zone at 30,000 feet.

How to Choose the Right Dog Crate for Flying

When selecting a travel crate, consider these factors:

Size – The crate must allow your dog to both stand easily and turn around. Measure your dog and only buy an inch or two larger than their dimensions. Oversize crates increase stress.

Durability – Look for heavy-duty plastic or metal with secured latches that won’t pop open. Soft-sided crates aren’t recommended for flights.

Ventilation – The crate must have openings on at least two sides and top/bottom for airflow. Otherwise it can get stuffy, especially during tarmac delays.

Wheels – Consider a crate with wheels for easy transport through the airport. You’ll likely have to collapse the wheels for cargo.

I’d recommend buying a name-brand crate from a pet supply store to ensure stability and safety compliance. Don’t skimp on quality when it comes to protecting your pet buddy at high altitudes.

Registering and Prepping the Crate

Once you select the perfect crate, here are some essential prep steps:

1. Register it with the airline as your dog’s official travel crate at least 48 hours prior to departure.
2. Attach an ID tag securely to the outside with your dog’s name, your name, destination address, and emergency contact.
3. Line the bottom with towels or pee pads and bring extras. Accidents can happen from stress or delays.
4. Consider adding a comfortable blanket that smells like home for comfort. But avoid bulky bedding.
5. Provide your dog’s vaccination records to show at check-in along with health certificates if required.

Proper registration and prep ensures your dog’s crate meets standards and they have their own safe personal space aboard flights. I’ve definitely faced situations where under-prepped pets got bounced at the airport.

Tips for a Stress-Free Crate Training Process

Introducing the crate in a positive way before travel day is key. Here are some methods I’ve used successfully with my pups:

– Feed all meals inside the open crate with the door on to build happy associations.

– Toss treats or stuffed Kongs into the crate for your dog to discover and enjoy.

– Start with short training sessions inside and work up to leaving the room briefly with praise and rewards on return.

– Use a command like “crate” when placing them inside and when letting out to avoid confusion.

– Don’t force wary dogs in. Remain positive or it could backfire on travel days. Go slow to build confidence.

Proper introduction makes going into the crate feel normal and comforting rather than a punishment. A stress-free pooch means a smooth sailing trip!

What to Expect at Check-In

On travel day, follow these tips based on my flights with dogs:

– Arrive extra early since pets require extra processing time.

– Have health forms and the crate ID easily accessible for inspection.

– Check baggage when possible to avoid gate checking a live animal.

– Be prepared for a potential health exam from the veterinary inspector.

– Expect to enlist flight attendants’ help navigating security and walking to the gate.

Most importantly, remain calm yourself. Pets can sense human anxiety which transfers to them. A little extra cream cheese or peanut butter in a toy can also serve as a welcome distraction from travel stress. Safe flying!

In summary, using an airline-approved crate properly introduced your furry friend can go a long way in ensuring their safety, comfort and compliance with regulations aboard flights. While transporting pets requires extra planning, it’s incredibly rewarding to be able to include them in family vacations and road trips. With the right preparation, you and your doggy explorer can successfully navigate air travel together.

Choosing the Best Dog Flight Crate

Crate Size	Dog Size	Description
Small	Tiny & Toy dogs under 10 lbs	Small portable crate good for small airline overhead bins.
Medium	Small dogs 10-25 lbs	Fits under most airline seats and provides enough room for small dogs to stand and turn around.
Large	Medium dogs 25-50 lbs	Offers more standing and turning room. May require checking as cargo depending on airline policy.
Extra Large	Large dogs 50-80 lbs	Provides adequate space for large dogs. Only suited for cargo storage on aircraft.
Collapseable	All dog sizes	Fold flat for easy storage and portability. Ideal for airline travel and road trips.
Ventilation	All dog sizes	Openings on sides, top and bottom keep air circulating for comfort and safety.

FAQ

1. What size flight crate do I need for my dog?

   The appropriate size depends on your dog’s measurements. Generally, the crate should allow your dog to stand up and turn around comfortably but not have too much extra space. Measure your dog from nose to tail and choose a crate about 5 inches longer than that size.

2. How do I crate train my dog?

   Basically, crate training involves positive reinforcement so your dog views the crate as a safe place. Start by feeding your dog in the crate and putting treats inside. Shut the door briefly while your dog eats. Gradually increase the time the door is closed while your dog is inside. Praise and reward your dog with treats when they enter the crate. Be patient – it might take days or weeks to fully crate train.

3. What if my dog barks or whines in the crate?

   If your dog barks or cries, it’s important not to let them out, otherwise they’ll learn barking gets them freed from the crate. Try to ignore the sounds or provide a distraction like a stuffed kong toy. The whining should stop after they understand you won’t come to them from crying. If it continues at night, the crate might be near your bed to reassure your dog.

4. Can I leave my dog in a crate for long periods?

   Perhaps not for excessively long stretches. Puppies especially should not stay crated for over 4 hours without a potty break. For adult dogs, it’s best if they aren’t crated for over 8-10 hours in a 24 hour period with no exercise. Leaving them too long daily can cause stress or frustration. But a few longer days is okay occasionally if the dog is well-exercised.

5. How do I choose between plastic or wire crates?

   There are pros and cons to each. Wire crates allow for more airflow but dogs can feel too exposed in them. Plastic crates are more enclosed but can retain odors. For airline travel, wire crates are frequently required. It basically comes down to your dog’s personality – some prefer privacy of plastic while others like the visibility of wire. Testing both types may help you decide.

6. On the other hand,

   is it possible to fly with my dog without a crate?

   Perhaps in some cases, but most major airlines require dogs to fly in approved hard-shell crates for everyone’s protection. Using a harness and leash on an airplane could be unsafe if your dog struggles or panics during takeoff/landing. Additionally, other passengers may feel uneasy near an unleashed dog. A crate provides a controlled space and reassures others your pet will stay contained. So unless it’s a very small and calm dog, a crate is generally needed.

7. What features should I look for in a quality travel crate?

   Strong, sturdy construction is important to withstand baggage handling. Look for crash-tested designs with secure latches. Wheels are handy for airport transport. Comfortable padding prevents stress. Built-in toys/bowls can entertain your pup. In flight, well-ventilated mesh windows are kinder than opaque plastic. Extra certification labels indicate it passed airline tests. A crate with these features will make flights more relaxing for both you and your dog.