A Comprehensive Guide to Flying with Your Furry Friend
If you’re searching online about buying a plane ticket for your dog, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll cover all the important things you need to know to fly with your canine companion, from booking procedures to in-flight considerations. By the end, you’ll have confidence in getting Spot home safely.
Booking the Right Ticket
The first step is finding flights that allow pets in the cabins or cargo holds. Most major airlines permit small dogs and cats to travel in-cabin in approved carriers that fit under the seat in front of you. Larger pets usually fly in the temperature-controlled cargo bays below. From my experience working at an animal rescue, it’s best if dogs 18 pounds or under travel in-cabin with you for both comfort and safety.
Look for the pet policy details and restrictions on the airline’s website before booking. You may need to pay an extra pet fee, usually $125 each way for domestic flights. The carrier must meet size limits too – no wider than 18 inches and cannot obstruct the aisle or exits. It’s also a good idea to book well in advance since some airlines limit the number of pets per flight for logistical reasons.
Getting Your Pup Prepared
Once you have the ticket, it’s time to get Fido ready for his big adventure. Make sure he has current ID tags with your contact info and a collapsing water bowl. From my vet days, I always advise customers to get their pet microchipped ahead of traveling in case he gets lost.
- Book a practice run to expose your pup to his carrier and get him comfortable being inside it for long stretches. Reward him with treats so it becomes a positive association.
- If your dog tends to get anxious, ask your vet about a mild sedative to take the edge off during the flight. It can help prevent any accidents or disruptive barking too.
- Don’t feed your furry friend for at least 6 hours before your flight. This reduces the chances of motion sickness or diarrhea mid-air. Offer small amounts of water up until departure.
Proper prep will make the journey way less stressful for both you and your pup!
Documents and Health Certificates
Most countries require dogs to have valid rabies vaccination records and health certificates to enter. Make sure your pup is fully vaccinated and then contact your vet 2-4 weeks before travel dates to arrange the paperwork. The certificate has to be issued within 10 days of your arrival by a licensed vet, so plan accordingly. Some destinations like Australia also impose quarantine periods, so double check all rules for your specific itinerary.
On the day of departure, keep the original records plus a printed copy in your carry-on in case of lost luggage. TSA agents may ask to inspect them at security. Carry a color photo of your pet too for identification purposes. Having all documents in order will basically ensure a smoother experience through customs on arrival.
Arriving at the Airport
Get to the airport early! Pets require extra check-in time due to paperwork reviews. Once at the ticket counter, you’ll present the health certificate, ID tags, and carrier for inspection. The agent will then issue your pet’s boarding pass. Despite careful planning, I’ve faced situations where my paperwork was deemed not valid at check-in. It’s a good thing I built in a buffer!
Whether departing or arriving, steer clear of human security lines and instead head directly to the pet relief areas provided. Stay off your phone too – the last thing you want is an accident in the middle of a crowded airport! Once past all checks, you can relax with your pup by your side until boarding starts.
In-Flight Tips and Precautions
Once on board, keep your pet carrier securely under the seat for takeoff and landing when turbulence is more likely. During cruising, the carrier can go in an empty seat beside you if available. Regardless, don’t let your pup roam freely for everyone’s comfort and safety.
Bring water, treats, and toys in a sealable bag to pass time. I always try to soothe my basset hound Midnight with gentle pets and reassurance when she gets nervous. If your airline serves food, consider bringing your own supply too since unfamiliar smells could further stress sensitive stomachs.
In the event of an emergency like loss of cabin pressure, oxygen masks may deploy above you. Remain calm and protect your pet carrier from being jostled until the situation stabilizes. With the right preparation and care en route, you and your furry friend should arrive at your destination happy and healthy!
Clearing Customs
When you land overseas, the real fun begins – clearing agriculture controls for pets! At many airports, you’ll proceed directly to the designated inspection area near baggage claim upon disembarking. Officials will review documents and may give your pet a quick visual check. If all is in order, you’re free to leave with your pooch.
However, in some countries like Australia, pets are fully scanned beneath an x-ray machine to detect insects or contraband. They once found a snake hiding in some farmer’s pup! Quarantines might also be enforced here upon arrival. It pays to thoroughly understand a place’s entry rules to avoid huge fines or worse, euthanization due to noncompliance.
With homework done right and patience during customs screening, you’ll be reunited with your favorite fur baby before long. Then the real fun of your trip together can begin!
I hope this guide gave you, the reader, the confidence to fly cross-country or worldwide with your pup. Safe travels to you and your four-legged friend! Let me know if any other pet travel questions come to mind.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Plane Ticket for Your Dog
| Carrier | Weight Allowance | Cabin | Crate Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 70 lbs or less | Main Cabin | Hard-sided carrier under seat |
| Delta | 70 lbs or less | Main Cabin | Soft or hard carrier under seat |
| United | 100 lbs or less | Main Cabin | Hard-sided carrier under seat |
| JetBlue | Maximum 50 lbs | Main Cabin | Soft-sided carrier under seat |
| Alaska Airlines | Maximum 75 lbs | Main Cabin | Hard-sided carrier under seat |
FAQ
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Can I bring my dog on the plane?
Most airlines allow small dogs and cats to fly in the cabin of the plane as long as they are properly contained in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you. Larger pets generally must be checked as cargo.
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What documents does my dog need to fly?
To travel with a furry friend, you’ll need a certificate from a vet stating your pooch is healthy and up to date on shots. Pets also need to be microchipped or tattooed for identification. Some destinations involve additional paperwork like health certificates. It’s best to check airline rules well before your flight.
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Is it safe for dogs to fly in cargo?
While flying pets cargo is legal, the conditions down there can most likely be unpleasant and stressful for puppers. Cargo areas experience more extreme temperatures and pressure changes. Some dogs have gotten loose or even died from mishaps. If at all possible, it seems preferable to bring smaller dogs into the cabin where you can keep an eye on them.
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What size carrier is allowed?
Carriers for in-cabin pets basically need to fit under the seat in front of you without sticking into the passenger foot space. Most major airlines approve soft-sided carriers no bigger than 18 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches high. Always verify the specific size limits with your chosen airline before showing up at the terminal with Fido.
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How early should I book a pet ticket?
During peak travel times like holidays, there may be restrictions on the number of pets allowed per flight for safety reasons. It’s a good idea to book your furry friend’s ticket at the same time you reserve yours. This helps ensure there is space and you won’t run into issues closer to departure. Booking well in advance appears to be the safest choice if you’re bringing Buddy along.
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What if my dog is nervous to fly?
Some vets can prescribe light sedatives to keep Rover or Fluffy calm during take-off and landing when pressure changes might upset their ears. Consult with your vet about options. You can also use pheromone sprays and calming treats made for travel anxiety. Bring favorite chew toys and blankets that smell like home. Talk soothingly and try to help your puppy feel secure despite the strange environment. Their comfort is key!
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Is it worth it to fly with pets?
Flying with pets requires extra planning, paperwork, costs and precautions. It can also be pretty stressful for both you and your furry friend. However, for many people the joy of traveling with a beloved pet outweighs those downsides. As long as you follow all the proper rules and take steps to minimize stress, bringing Spot along on your adventures can definitely be worth it. But you know your pet best – maybe a petsitter or kennel is a better choice for nervous flyers. You’ve got to do what feels right.