A Comprehensive Guide to Flying With Multiple Pets
Whether you’re moving to a new home across the country or taking an extended vacation, traveling by air with multiple furry companions can present unique challenges. As someone who has flown with dogs and cats several times, here are the steps I’ve learned to help make the process as stress-free as possible for you and your pets.
Book Your Pets on the Same Flight
- Call the airline well in advance of your travel dates to reserve pet tickets.
- Most carriers only allow a limited number of pets per flight for logistical and safety reasons.
- Clearly communicate how many pets you need tickets for to avoid splitting them up.
From my experience, airlines are very strict about pet capacities. It’s crucial to book early if flying multiple pets together is important to you. Don’t assume extra pets can be added later – plan ahead!
Preparing Your Pets
Proper conditioning takes time, so start desensitizing your pets to their carriers, car rides, and other travel elements well before the big day. I also recommend practicing short training sessions with any calming aids like pheromone sprays or treats you’ll use. A stressed pet is less likely to settle down in noisy planes and airports. Speak positively and reward relaxation when introducing new stimuli.
Choosing the Right Carriers
The carrier is your pet’s personal flying compartment, so it needs to be FAA-approved, robust, comfortable, and roomy enough for multiple trips in and out of the aircraft. I strongly advise soft-sided carriers for cats and smaller dogs rather than rigid plastic or metal varieties which can’t conform to narrow airplane spaces. Test carriers before flying to ensure proper fit.
Packing Essentials
- Current license and vaccinations
- Leash, collar, ID tag for each pet
- Favorite toys/bedding
- Extra food and water for delays
- Medical records
- Calming aids
Pack light but be prepared! Delays are frustrating for us, even more so for our furry loved ones. Extra provisions can help keep stress levels low if plans change unexpectedly. I always bring each pet’s medical file just in case.
Getting Through Airport Security
Unfortunately there are no express lanes for pets! Have transport carriers ready to x-ray before security. Be kind but firm with screening agents who may want to inspect carriers – your pet’s comfort is priority. Once through, keep pets secured on leash if walking. Let nearby travelers know politely if a pet seems distressed. Flexible planning is key when multiple animals are involved.
At the Departure Gate
Some help from family or friends makes this stepway easier if flying solo with a menagerie. Board promptly when your seat group is called. Explain the pet situation politely if delays occur. Once everyone is settled, relax and softly reassure your pets until takeoff. Bribery with treats sometimes works to calm napping furballs!
In-Flight
Most carriers fit under aircraft seats to avoid checked baggage fees,but notify attendants if any pets display stress symptoms. Don’t remove carriers from sight during flight for safety. I’ve found slight rocking or holding provides security. Noise-cancelling headphones dampen sounds of engines. Be prepared for quick unload if turbulence strikes. Communication and quick reactions are important with multiple lives under our care at 40,000 feet!
Arrival and Beyond
Touch base with family/friends expecting you after your pets disembark. Prolonged containment increases tension. Once safely in a familiar vehicle, all animals can stretch after the long haul with short playtimes then rest. A few days of quiet familiarization works wonders for readjustment according travelling with multiple pets. With diligent preparation and care comes smoother sailing for you and your furry pack!
While flying commercial carriers with pets requires diligence, the rewards of keeping multi-pet families together through transitions makes it worthwhile. Have you tried flying with a menagerie before? What experiences and advice can you offer travelers in similar situations? Safe travels to all!
Tips for Flying with Multiple Pets
| Number of Pets Allowed | Cabin or Cargo | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 2 pets | Cabin | Must be in approved carrier under seat |
| 3-4 pets | Cargo | Proper health certificates and vaccinations required |
| 5+ pets | Cargo | Special arrangements and advanced notice needed |
| Emotional support animals | Cabin | Doctor letter required, must be well-behaved |
| exotic pets | Cargo | Additional permits and containers may be required |
| Unusual sizes | Cargo | Overweight charges apply, cage requirements vary |
FAQ
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How many pets can I bring on a flight?
Most airlines let you bring up to 8 pets in the cabin as long as they fit safely in their carriers under the seat in front of you. But some flights have restrictions on number of pets, so it’s best to check with your airline first.
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Do I need a ticket for my pet?
Yup, you’ll need to purchase an extra ticket for each pet you’re bringing aboard. Pet tickets can get kinda pricey too, like maybe $100 each way or more. But hey, at least your furry friend gets to come along for the ride!
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What size pet carriers are allowed?
For safety, carriers have to fit completely under the seat in front of you without sticking out into the aisle. Most airlines say carriers can’t be taller than 18 inches. It’s a tight squeeze! Check your specific airline for more details on carrier size limits.
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Do pets have to stay in their carriers the whole time?
Basically yes, for everyone’s safety pets need to remain secure in their carriers during takeoff, landing, and whenever the seat belt sign is on. At other times, like during level flight when it’s calm, the carrier can be stored under the seat or on your lap if it fits. But be sure to obey the flight attendants.
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Is there a weight limit for pets?
Pets are generally limited to around 20 pounds or less. Animals over that might have to travel as cargo instead of in the cabin. Certain small dogs and cats usually qualify for cabin travel, but don’t bring along your great dane unless you want to split him into separate carriers! Check weights carefully.
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What paperwork is required?
In addition to the ticket, you’ll need a valid health certificate from your vet saying your pet is healthy, updated on shots, and cleared to fly. Some countries also need an import permit or quarantine paperwork. It’s important to plan well ahead and get everything in order to avoid issues on travel dates.
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What if my pet acts up on the plane?
Most pets do just fine on flights, but there’s always a chance one will yowl, bark, or otherwise disturb others. Flight attendants may ask you to use a muzzle in that case. If problems persist, you could potentially be asked to get off the plane with your pet. So do your best to keep them calm!