How to Find the Best Dog Kennel for Flights When Traveling With Your Pet

Your Questions Answered: Finding a Dog Kennel for Your Upcoming Flight

Whether you’re going on vacation, traveling for work, or have an emergency come up, there will inevitably be times where you need to find boarding for your furry friend when you can’t bring Fido along. As a frequent flyer both for business and pleasure who often has to travel without my dog, Finn, I’ve been in your paws. In this article, I hope to address the top concerns dog owners have when needing to find a kennel for their pet during an upcoming flight.

How do I find a reputable boarding kennel near the airport?

The first step is doing your research. Ask other dog owners in your area for recommendations through your neighborhood listserv or social media groups. Vet clinics and groomers are also great resources as they work with local kennels on a regular basis. You can check reviews online at sites like Yelp, Google, and Facebook to read about other owners’ experiences. It’s also a good idea to schedule a tour so you can meet the staff, see the facilities, and get a feel for the operation before deciding.

1. Look for kennels that are located within 30 minutes of the airport to allow enough buffer time for any traffic delays.
2. Ideally, the kennel should be licensed by the local authorities and association accredited by organizations like the American Kennel Club who regularly inspect facilities.
3. Ask about staff qualifications, boarding procedures, enrichment activities, and protocols for medical emergencies.

In my experience, the higher-rated chains tend to have more consistent care but some small, family-run places provide a more personalized experience. It comes down to finding the right balance that suits your furry friend’s needs.

How much should I budget for boarding?

Kennel costs can vary significantly depending on location, extra services, and length of stay. As a general guideline, expect to pay anywhere from $20-40 per night for basic boarding. Group play areas tend to be the most affordable option. Private suites and lots usually range from $30-60. Additional services like medication administration, grooming, and training sessions will increase the daily fee.

Some things that impact pricing include: size of dog, individual versus group boarding, extra playtime, catered meal plans, and 24/7 supervision. Luxury facilities may charge upwards of $75-100 for spa packages and pool access. I always ask about discounts for long stays or frequent customer loyalty programs to save where possible.

Try to book well in advance if traveling during peak seasons as availability tends to fill up quickly. Some spots require deposits to hold reservations. Flexible cancellation policies provide comfort if travel plans change at the last minute.

How can I make sure my dog is comfortable there?

It’s perfectly normal to worry about your furry friend being stressed at the kennel. Some things I’ve found helpful are:

1. Bring a soft blanket or toy with your familiar scent for added comfort.
2. Request to do a trial run day visit before dropping off so they can get acclimated to the new environment.
3. Ask if there are options for private playtime or one-on-one walks to reduce overstimulation from a busy group setting.
4. Provide detailed notes on your pup’s quirks, feeding schedule, potty routine, and any special needs.
5. Confirm the kennel’s policy on updates and photos during your dog’s stay to ease your own anxiety as well.

It also helps to leave your furry friend with something that smells like you, like an article of well-worn clothing, to help them feel more comfortable when you’re apart. Trust your gut and don’t feel shy about thoroughly vetting facilities until you find the right fit for your pooch.

Are there any travel tips specific to flying with dogs?

While it’s appealing to bring your best friend along for the journey, air travel presents its own set of stressors. Here are some suggestions if flying with Fido:

• Book nonstop flights if possible to minimize time spent in cargo hold.
• Always check airline policies as some only allow small dogs in cabin with advance notice and size & weight limits.
• Make sure vaccinations are up to date and you have health records on hand.
• Use collapsible travel crates that meet size specs to provide familiar den-like space.
• Consider calming supplements, medicines, or comforting toys to ease anxiety.
• Pack favorite treats and plenty of portable water in your carry-on.
• Arrive extra early for check-in to allow time for paperwork and health screenings.

As handy as it is to bring Fido along, know that air travel is stressful even for humans. If they’re especially high-strung, it may be kinder to board them where they can relax in a more familiar setting during your travels. The comfort of our furry family members should be the top priority.

Any other tips or things I should watch out for?

A few final pieces of advice based on my own learning curve:

• Have a backup plan in case your first choice is full as things book up quickly.
• Beware of unregulated facilities operating without proper licensing or certifications.
• Get references from other services like walkers or sitters in case you need an extra set of paws while on the road.
• Clearly labeled medication, food, toys, etc. prevents mix-ups or misunderstandings.
• Take pre-departure photos in case little Rover gets a haircut or misplaces a toy during care.

Above all, trust your instincts and do thorough research early. With preparation and open communication with caretakers, both you and your beloved fur baby can feel at ease throughout your time apart. Safe travels!

I hope this helps provide a comprehensive overview of what to consider when finding boarding for flights. Please feel free to reach out if you have any other questions. The well-being of our canine companions is so important, so taking the time for diligence on the front end helps ensure peace of mind. Wishing you and your pup the best!

Considerations for Choosing a Kennel for Your Dog When Traveling by Air

Feature	Things to Consider
Kennel Size	Make sure the kennel is large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably.
Ventilation	Kennels should be properly ventilated to keep air circulating.
Durability	Look for a sturdy, escape-proof kennel that can withstand baggage handling.
Airline Approval	Only use kennels that comply with size limits of your airline.
Comfort	Add comfortable bedding, toys, and water for your dog’s comfort.

FAQ

1. Can I bring my dog in a kennel on the flight?

   Usually, you can bring your doggo on the airplane as long as it stays inside the kennel under the seat. Most airlines let you bring small-medium dogs and cats like this. Just be sure you check the rules for your specific airline.

2. How big can the kennel be?

   Dog kennels for flights usually gotta be small enough to fit under the passenger seat in front of you. Normally the max size is around 20 inches by 16 inches by 8 inches (50 by 40 by 20 cm). Carry-on size limits! Anything bigger and they’ll probably make you check the kennel with luggage in the cargo hold.

   

3. What type of kennel is best?

   Hard-shell kennels are generally the way to go on planes since they provide more sturdiness and protection for pup during take-off, landing, and any turbulence. Soft-sided kennels can work too if they’re nicely reinforced, I guess. Basically you want something that won’t collapse or come apart at high altitudes!

4. Do I need to buy a special pet carrier?

   Kinda, you’ll need a carrier that is approved by the FAA for use in the passenger cabin on commercial flights. Look for ones labeled “airline approved” that meet size limits. At the same time, any sturdy carrier could work as long as it fits under the seat. But an official pet carrier avoids any potential issues at the airport.

5. What else do I need to bring?

   Besides the kennel, be sure to pack any supplies like food, water, toys, bedding, poop bags, and medication in your carry-on too. You’ll also need the health certificate from your vet if flying internationally. Oh, and ID tag on collar is smart in case pup escapes somehow! Don’t leave home without the essentials.

6. How do I prepare my dog for the flight?

   It’s a good idea to get pup accustomed to their kennel before travel day. Give treats and praise when they’re inside. Take short practice trips to car, store, vet to get them used to coming along. On the big day, keep them comfy and calm during check-in, security, and the flight. Talk soothinglythe whole time. With a little training, even anxious dogs can ride like pros!

7. Is it tough getting through security with a dog?

   Airport security checks can basically be a pain whether you’re travelling solo or with your furry friend. They gotta check the kennel just like any other carry-on. Hopefully your pooch stays chill and just lets them inspect without snarls or bites! Maybe try to schedule extra time in case a “random” kennel search slows things down. A mellow dog makes security a breeze.