Your Ultimate Guide to Flying With Fido
Whether you’re planning a vacation with your furry friend or need to travel for work, bringing your dog in the cabin can be a hassle-free experience if you prepare properly. In this article, I’ll break down everything you need to know to make flying with your pup as stress-free as possible.
Check Airline Policies
- The first step is checking your airline’s specific policies on traveling with pets. Rules can vary between carriers.
- Most airlines allow one pet per passenger in the cabin as long as they are small enough to fit under the seat in a carrier. Make sure your dog qualifies size-wise before booking tickets.
- Review any paperwork, health certificates, or fees required. You’ll need to allow time to get any documentation in order well before your flight date.
From my experience, it’s best to contact the airline directly rather than rely on general online info. Ask questions to avoid any surprise costs or denied boarding at the airport. Pretty much every airline now charges a fee, usually $125 or so each way. Yikes!
Choose the Right Carrier
The carrier is basically your dog’s home for the duration of the flight, so it needs to be comfy yet sturdy enough to fit under the seat safely. I’d strongly advise against one of those cheap, collapsible carriers.
Look for these key features:
– Soft sides and padding for comfort
– Secure zipper or clips to prevent escape attempts
– Dimensions that meet airline size limits (usually around 20x14x9 inches)
– Handles or folds flat for easy transport
Bringing your pup’s favorite toy or blanket can help them feel more secure inside an unfamiliar carrier. I’ve also seen hammock attachments that give dogs more space to spread out.
Prepare Your Pup
Getting your dog used to their carrier before a flight is crucial. Start by feeding them in it and slowly increasing practice times over weeks. Toss treats inside to build positive associations.
It also helps to desensitize them to airport commotion and noises. Play recordings of planes taking off at home to get them accustomed to the sounds. There are even doggy headphones you can buy!
On travel day, do not feed them within a few hours of flying to avoid any unfortunate “accidents” mid-flight. And as always, have their vaccines and records up to date just in case.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Due to potential delays and extra steps with pets, aim to arrive at least 2 hours before your domestic flight or 3 hours for international. Have documents ready to go and expect vetting of the carrier size.
Kind of a pain, I know. But better early than possibly missing your flight! Once checked in, keep your puppy cozy in the carrier until boarding to reduce stress.
Boarding and Taking Off
When it’s time to board, follow crew instructions and get situated in your seat quickly. Secure your dog’s carrier under the seat in front of you or in the vacant middle seat if available.
That’s when the fun begins – taking off can be scary for dogs not used to flight. Talk to them soothingly and offer treats or toys as a distraction during ascent. A Thundershirt or calming aids may help too.
In-Flight Tips
Once cruise altitude is reached, try to keep your pup calm and contained. However, it’s basically impossible to enforce “no dog on laps” rules, so go with what makes them feel most secure.
Changewater if needed but avoid emptying waste in the onboard bathroom – YUCK! Wait till a layover or your destination if possible. Considering bringing pee pads just in case of “accidents”.
Also bring extra bags for cleaning up your dog’s business. The crew has enough to deal with without that mess. Bags and wipes are a must for cleaning paws upon exiting the plane.
Disembarking and Beyond
Follow crew instructions when deplaning too. Once off, it takes minutes for cabin pressure to stabilize so avoid taking your dog directly outside until acclimated.
From there, you’re (hopefully) home free! As a reward, give plenty of praise and treats after all that stressful travel. Keep a relaxed pace until fully adjusting to the new location. You both deserve some downtime.
All in all, with diligent preparation, most dogs can fly very comfortably in cabin. It expands their world while keeping you together. Just be respectful of others and use common sense – it’s all good! Any other questions, hit me up.
Tips for Flying With Your Dog in Cabin
| Airline | Weight Limit | Cage/Carrier Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 20 lbs | Soft-sided carrier that fits under seat |
| United Airlines | 20 lbs | Hard-sided or soft-sided carrier that fits under seat |
| Delta Air Lines | 20 lbs | Hard-sided carrier that fits under seat |
| Southwest Airlines | 20 lbs | Hard-sided or soft-sided carrier that fits under seat |
| Alaska Airlines | 15lbs | Hard-sided carrier that fits under seat |
FAQ
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What paperwork do I need to fly with my dog?
Basically you’ll need your dog’s vaccination records showing they are up to date on all shots. The airline may also ask for a health certificate from your vet stating your pup is healthy and fit to travel. Check the specific rules for your airline too.
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How early should I get to the airport with a dog?
Most experts recommend arriving at least 2 hours before your flight if traveling with a furry companion. It can take extra time at check-in and security. Also, pooches may need a potty break before the long flight. Despite this, some say an hour and a half could work too if your dog is well-behaved and you know the airport layout.
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What size carrier is allowed?
The basic standard is that your pup’s carrier should fit under the airline seat in front of you. Most major airlines require the carrier to be no more than 18 inches tall by 14 inches wide by 9 inches deep. However, some say smaller is better since bigger crates take up leg room. Check your specific airline just to be sure.
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Can I take my dog out of the carrier on the plane?
In most cases, no. Federal regulations require dogs to remain in their carriers for the entirety of the flight. This helps ensure safety for both passengers and pups. At the same time, it’s best not to test the flight attendants on this rule! Obeying keeps your dog and others stress-free.
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Is it safe to sedate my dog for the flight?
Perhaps. Calm pups definitely make for smooth sailing. ButIs it safe to sedate my dog for the flight? Perhaps. Calm pups definitely make for smooth sailing. But is it worth the risks? Speak with your vet – sedatives may not be safe or necessary for all dogs. They could have side effects or interact badly with motion sickness meds. The kindest option is often to train and desensitize your pup to new surroundings before the big day.
What if my dog is amazing on planes?
If your pup has proven time and time again to be the best flier and never causes trouble, some airlines offer a “Pets Fly Free” program where well-trained dogs can accompany you in the cabin at no extra cost. Of course, you’d need your vet to swear to your dog’s good behaviors. Plus, try not to brag too much – other passengers may be jealous of your pup’s stunning stewardess skills!