How to Fly with Your Dog: A Guide for Traveling With Pets by Air

A Complete Guide to Flying with Your Furry Friend

If you want to take your dog on a plane trip but have questions about the process, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to fly with your canine companion, from booking procedures to what to pack in their travel crate. By the end, you’ll feel like a pro at navigating air travel with man’s best friend by your side.

Step 1: Check the Airline’s Pet Policies

The first thing to do is contact the airline you plan to fly and inquire about their pet transportation policies. Policies can vary between carriers, so it’s important to understand specifics like size/weight limits, travel fees, requirements for health certificates and vaccinations, and more. Most airlines only accept dogs traveling in-cabin that can fit comfortably under the seat in front of you in a pet carrier. From my experience, carriers no larger than 20 x 14 x 9 inches are usually approved.

Step 2: Book your Pet’s Ticket Early

Once you know your airline’s policies, the next step is to actually purchase a ticket for your pup. Space is limited onboard for traveling pets, so it’s best to book well in advance, like at least a month prior but sooner if doing international travel. Tickets for canine companions usually cost $125-250 each way depending on the length of flight. I’d also advise purchasing travel insurance in case any issues come up.

Step 3: Obtain Required Documents

Most airlines will require a health certificate for your dog signed by your vet within 10 days of your flight. This certifies they are fit to travel and have received all necessary vaccinations like rabies, distemper, etc. Some countries also require an import permit or proof of microchipping – so check destination pet entry requirements too. Organizing documents well in advance will help ensure a smooth trip.

Step 4: Train Your Pup for the Crate

To make the flight less stressful for your dog, start training them to comfortably spend time in their carrier well before your trip. Practice short training sessions with treats and praise so they associate the crate with positive experiences. I’ve found it also helps to get them used to auditory stimuli like noises on an airplane. The more acclimated they are pre-flight, the better they’ll manage during travel.

Step 5: Pack the Perfect Pet Portable Home

On travel day, you’ll want your pup’s carrier stocked with all their essentials, including: water bowl, rubber chew toys, training pads, leash, ID tag, and of course favorite blanket/pillow from home. Don’t forget any medication or special food as well if needed mid-flight. I always bring a ziploc with newspaper in case of..you know..accidents! Having everything they need right there will help keeps things chill at 30,000 feet.

Step 6: Check-In and Board the Plane

1. Arrive at the airport early and head straight to the airline check-in counter for pets.
2. Present health certificate, vaccination records, import permits if required.
3. Weigh carrier and check dimensions to verify compliance with size limits.
4. Pay pet transport fees and receive tags/stickers for carrier.
5. Take all paperwork and head through security with your furry friend.
6. Find your seat, stow carrier under seat in front of you for takeoff/landing.

From my experience, arriving at least 2 hours before an international flight or 90 mins for domestic is ideal to allow time for any issues. Staying calm and following airline staff instructions will help things roll smoothly.

Step 7: In-Flight Care

Once airborne, just relax! Most pups will snooze the whole time. However, you may want to periodically offer water if it’s a long haul. If they seem restless, try gently petting or speaking soothingly through the carrier vent. I always bring a lightweight blanket too in case they get chilly at altitude. The key is keeping them secure during takeoffs, landings, and turbulence for their own safety. Before you know it, you’ll have touched down at your destination with pup in tow!

Step 8: Import Requirements at Your Destination

Different countries have varying import rules for pets. Some may require a waiting period in quarantine upon arrival. It’s a good idea to research any paperwork, vaccines, or exams needed in advance of your inbound international flight. A bit of prep can help avoid unexpected hassles at customs. I once forgot to verify microchip requirements for a trip to Taiwan with mygolden – it caused way more stress than necessary arriving with the wrong documents in hand.

In summary, carefully following airline policies, getting any documents or training in order early, and properly preparing your pup’s portable home will basically guarantee smooth sailing whether you’re doing a quick jaunt across state lines or globetrotting internationally. The key things are communicating with your vet, researching destination requirements ahead of time, and making your furry friend’s comfort and safety the main priority during air travel. With a bit of planning, you’ll have Fido by your side to enjoy your destination stress-free. Happy travels!

Tips for Flying with Your Dog

Tip	Details
Book Directly with Airline	Contact airline directly to inquire about current pet policies and fees.
Use Pet Carrier	Dog must travel in carriers that fit under the seat or in the cargo hold.
Supply Records	Provide vet records showing dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccines.
Prepare ID Tag	Attach ID tag on collar and carrier with your contact information.
Acclimate to Carrier	Get dog used to carrier before travel day through short training sessions.
Talk to Vet	Discuss any needs and get travel medication if recommended.

FAQ

1. Can I fly with my dog on a commercial airline?

   Most airlines allow small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin of the plane as long as they remain in a carrier under the seat during the flight. However, larger or older dogs may need to ride in the cargo hold, which some pet owners worry about. Basically, check with your airline about their pet policies.

2. What documents do I need for my dog to fly?

   You’ll need your pup’s health records proving they are up to date on vaccinations. At the same time, most airlines ask for the dog to have a certificate from a vet saying they are okay to travel. I suggest getting everything in order early because you never know what questions the staff may ask. On the other hand, a clumsy pup can kind of ruin your vacation plans if not prepared properly!

   

3. How do I keep my dog comfortable on a flight?

   Make sure Fido is tired out before the trip so they kinda just want to snooze on the plane. Also pack treats, toys, and maybe even a blanket that smells like home for comfort. But is it worth it stressing them out with air travel? Perhaps consider driving if it’s not too far. At the same time, many pups do alright if accustomed to new experiences.

4. Should I sedate my dog for the flight?

   Consult your vet on whether medication would help or just add to the issues. Calm pups may settle better without interference from drugs. On the other hand, tranquilizers could be a good option for highly anxious dogs. Though there is the risk of side effects too. Maybe ask fellow pet owners what worked for theirs before deciding.

5. What size carrier can I bring my dog on board in?

   Airlines specify the max dimensions, usually around 18x14x8 inches or less. I reckon it’s best to measure your pup’s crate to be sure it fits guidelines. But is that fair to enormous (yet sweet!) breeds? Perhaps exceptions could be made for the truly huge hounds. At least my tiny Chihuahua has no worries there!

6. How can I make sure my dog is comfortable in the cargo hold?

   Though not ideal, using an IATA-certified crate helps ensure proper ventilation and protection from extremes. Also consider a pet relocation service for extra care. I hear they’re awesome! Basically, prioritizing your pooch’s well-being seems best despite drawbacks to cargo.

   

7. What precautions should I take on a long road trip with my dog?

   Pack lots of water, take bathroom breaks every few hours, and bring along doggie snacks to keep energy up. And I’d test drive the route in advance, if possible, to spot any pit stops along the way. Above all, go at your furry friend’s pace rather than trying to power through in one long sitting. Road trips can be happier that way, if less speedy!