A Complete Guide to Flying With Your Medium-Sized Dog
If you need to travel by plane with your furry companion, this guide will help you understand the ins and outs of flying with a medium-sized dog. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, there are always new things to learn. Let’s get started!
Preparing Your Dog for Travel
The most important thing is making sure your dog feels comfortable and at ease on the flight. From my experience as a dog owner and frequent flyer, I’ve found it’s best to start acclimating them to the travel process well in advance. A few weeks before your trip:
- Take your dog on test rides in the car, gradually increasing the length of time spent in the vehicle.
- Get them used to being in their travel crate with positive reinforcement and treats.
- Consider anti-anxiety medication prescribed by your vet, which can help relax nervous pups.
Leading up to departure day, maintain your normal routines as much as possible. The last thing you want is for your dog to think something is different or unusual about the trip.
Booking Your Flight
When reserving airline tickets, be sure to specifically request traveling with a dog. Most carriers charge a non-refundable pet fee that can range from $100-250 per direction. Also find out about any size/weight limits, health paperwork requirements, and booking deadlines. It’s frustrating if you show up without the proper documentation!
Size-wise, most airlines define medium dogs as being over 20 pounds and under 50 pounds. Breed restrictions may apply as well. Read the fine print so there are no surprises.
What to Pack
In addition to your own luggage, be prepared with some essential doggie supplies:
Travel crate: This provides a safe, comfortable space for your pup during take-off, landing and in the cargo hold. Look for metal or sturdy plastic crates with proper ventilation.
Food and water: Bring along your dog’s regular diet in case of delays, plus bowls and extra water for drinking/cleaning messes.
Collar and leash: Have proper ID tags on the collar in case your dog gets lost. You’ll need the leash to transfer them at the airport.
Documents: Rabies certificate, health records from the vet, current license – make copies in case of any issues.
Comfort items: A few favorite toys/blankets can ease anxiety. But ditch the squeaky toys on takeoff/landing!
Don’t forget bags, wipes and sealable bags for cleaning up accidents! Over-pack essentials rather than under-packing.
Travel Day Tips
A few kind tips from my own flying mishaps with my pooch Fido:
Arrive early. Budget extra time to check your crate and undergo security screening. You don’t want to be rushing!
Stay calm. You dog will pick up on your stress levels. Take deep breaths and remember why we’re doing this – scrummy vacation ahead!
Ice packs as needed. Long layovers or summer flights may require tucking a reusable ice pack under their belly in the crate.
Bring entertainment. Music on your headphones or a few favored chew toys can distract your puppy pal in the crate.
With preparation and patience, you’ll be at the beach (or wherever fun awaits!) before you know it. Safe travels to you and your furry co-pilot! Let me know if you have any other poochy questions.
Alternative Travel Options
If flying feels like too much stress for your pampered pooch, consider driving or taking a bus/train instead. Of course that depends on the distance! But the freedom of being in your car or occasional walks/rest stops can be less traumatizing than the aerial experience.
You could also look at professional pet transport services especially for longer hauls. They provide door-to-door crate transport in climate-controlled vehicles, with drivers who are experienced in handling all sorts of critters. Naturally there’s an additional fee, but it ensures your pup’s safety and security without Owner anxiety.
So in summary – while flying may work great for some pooches, listen to your dog’s personality and comfort levels. Maybe a road trip would make them (and you!) happier campers. But with the right prep work, even nervous nellies can take to the sky. Safe travels!
Important Considerations for Flying with Your Dog
| Size of Dog | Carrier Requirements |
|---|---|
| Under 20 pounds | Can travel in cabin with soft-sided carrier that fits under seat |
| 20-50 pounds | Must travel in cabin with hard-sided or soft-sided carrier that fits under seat |
| Over 50 pounds | Must travel in cargo hold in sturdy travel crate and meet health/vaccine requirements |
| Breed Restrictions | Some airlines ban bully breeds like Pit Bulls from the cabin regardless of size |
| Direct Flights Required | Non-stop flights are best to avoid delays and layovers that can stress dogs |
FAQ
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Can I bring my dog on the plane with me?
Most airlines allow medium sized dogs to fly in the cargo hold of the plane as long as you follow certain rules. You will need to purchase a ticket for your pup and provide things like health certificates, vaccinations records, and an approved container. So while it’s usually possible, there’s some planning required.
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Will my dog be ok in the cargo hold?
Even though dogs are down below, airline employees are instructed to check on cargo animals regularly to make sure they have enough fresh air and their temperatures don’t get too crazy. At the same time, you never know what might happen, so some folks choose to feel safer leaving their dogs at home. do your research on the airline’s animal policies and safety track record if you’re worried.
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What kind of container do I need?
All dogs flying cargo need to be kept in a hard-sided kennel that is properly labeled and meets international regulations. It should be big enough for your pooch to stand up and turn around in, yet not too massive to handle. Check airline rules for specific container sizes. Don’t forget bowls, leashes, and “poop bags” too!
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How early should I arrive at the airport?
Give yourself extra time when traveling with an animal. While people can sometimes rush through security, you’ll need to check in your dog well before your flight boards. Find out the airline’s cutoff times and aim to show up at least 1-2 hours in advance, possibly more during busy holiday stretches. It’s better to kill time at the airport than risk missing your flight!
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Will my dog be scared during takeoff and landing?
Takeoffs and landings can be unsettling even for humans. Dogs in the cargo hold tend to feel it even more due to lack of windows. To help keep him chill, ask your vet about calming supplements that are air travel safe. You might also consider a snuggly item from home with your scent. With any luck, he’ll sleep through most of the bumpy parts. But there are no guarantees so be prepared for some stress.
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How can I prepare my nervous dog for travel?
Desensitization training using positive reinforcement is key. Get Fido used to things like being in his kennel, hearing loud noises, and being alone for stretches. Make travel fun with toys only for the crate. You may also want to see a professional trainer for tips on calming signals he may display and how to ease tension. A tired pup is a happy pup too, so play hard before the big day.