How to Fly With Your Dog: Tips for Traveling by Plane With Your Pet

A Complete Guide to Flying With Your Dog

If you’re planning a trip that involves air travel and you want to bring your furry companion along, there are a few things you need to know to make the flying experience as stress-free as possible for you and your dog. In this guide, I’ll cover all the steps to take when flying with a dog, from booking preparations to what to expect at the airport.

Check Airline Pet Policies

1. The very first thing to do is check the pet policies and restrictions for the airline you’ll be flying. Policies can vary between airlines, so know the rules for your specific carrier.
2. Most airlines only allow small dogs to fly in the cabin. Large and extra large dogs usually have to be shipped as cargo. Know your dog’s measurements and weight limits.
3. Make sure to review any fees, health certificate requirements, vaccination records needed, and restrictions on certain breeds like pit bulls before booking your tickets.

From my experience, it’s best to call the airline directly if you have any questions about flying with a dog. The carrier’s website may not provide all the details you need. You want to make sure your pooch meets all requirements before confirming reservations. It would be awful to show up at the airport only to be denied boarding!

Book Early With Plenty of Lead Time

When flying commercially, space is limited for animals in the passenger cabin. During busy travel seasons like holidays, that space books up fast. I strongly recommend reserving your dog-friendly seats as early as possible, preferably at least a month ahead of your departure date. The earlier you book, the greater chance you’ll getconfirmation that your furry companion can join you rather than having to check them as cargo or be forced to change your travel plans. Advance planning is key when flying with any pets.

Prepare Proper Travel Gear

To keep your dog secure, happy, and not disturbing other passengers during the flight, you’ll need some basic canine flying accessories:

1. An FAA-approved travel crate or carrier that is the proper size for your dog (usually no more than under the seat in front of you)
2. A comfortable leash, collar, and ID tags in case your dog gets loose from the crate
3. Potty pads in case of “accidents”
4. A few chew toys and other distractions to occupy your dog during take-offs and landings
5. Water bowl that won’t spill
6. Snacks and water for your pet

I always bring a back-up change of clothes and plastic bags too in case of spills or messes. Proper containment gear will help ensureyour dog flies safely and complies with airline regulations.

Get Your Dog Used to the Carrier

Exposure and desensitization training is key starting a few weeks before your flight. Here are some tips:

1. Leave the empty carrier out around your home where your dog can explore it and receive treats
2. Put familiar blankets or toys inside for comfort
3. Give treats and praise when your dog enters on their own
4. Gradually work up to closing the door for short periods
5. Practice car rides with your dog in the carrier to simulate airport conditions

The more comfortable your dog feels in their carrier, the calmer they’ll be on the plane. My dogs actually think it’s playtime now when I bring out their crates! Proper training makes all the difference for a positive flying experience.

Prepare Health Documents

Most countries require an up-to-date vaccination record and health certificate proving your dog is healthy, parasite-free, and safe to travel. Requirements vary so research destinations carefully. I suggest getting documents completed by your vet at least a month before your trip to avoid scrambling last minute. Key documents usually include:

• Vaccination record stamped and signed by your vet with details of rabies, distemper, and other core shots.
• Veterinary health certificate (within 10 days of travel) stating your dog shows no signs of illness.
• Import permits for international destinations that require them.

Having all paperwork fully prepared well ahead of time removes a huge source of potential issues. Do your homework to stay on top of any bureaucratic pet travel hurdles.

Follow Pre-Travel Guidelines

Most airlines require you adhere to certain guidelines before flying with a dog. Here are some standard pre-travel rules:

• No food for 4-6 hours before the flight to avoid nausea.
• Dogs should use the bathroom right before departure and shouldn’t have to be walked on the tarmac for safety.
• Sedation is usually not permitted – air pressure changes are safer without meds.
• Arrive extra early for check-in – at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure.

Following all pre-flight instructions ensures you and your dog are prepared for take-off. Coming to the airport rushed or breaking any rules is a recipe for stress and potentially getting denied boarding with your furry companion. Advanced preparation makes flying with pets virtually hassle-free.

Check-In at the Airport

When you arrive at the airport, here’s what to expect during check-in:

1. Proceed directly to the ticket counter or pet check-in area indicated by your airline.
2. Have ID, reservation, pet paperwork, and travel crate ready for inspection.
3. Your dog may need to be measured and weighed to verify size requirements are met.
4. Pay any balance on pet fees if applicable.
5. You may need to fill out a written agreement or discuss requirements with an agent.
6. Attach ID tags to your dog’s crate that match paperwork.
7. Proceed immediately through security and to your boarding gate.

Remember to remain calm and in control of your dog throughout check-in. Any signs of stress, aggression or non-compliance could cause problems. A positive attitude and obedient pet goes a long way in making the process smooth.

From my experience, it helps to bring treats and toys to keep your pooch lightly occupied during any wait times. Kill them with kindness during inspections. Overall, arriving prepared and knowing what to expect makes airport check-in a breeze when flying with your dog.

Aboard the Plane

Once you board, here are some tips for making your dog comfortable and complaint during the actual flight:

• Keep them in their carrier under the seat in front of you where they can see you.
• Bring toys, chews and calming aids like pheromone sprays or plug-ins.
• Reassure and pet them periodically through carrier vents.
• Use treats and praise for calm behavior through take-offs and landings.
• Notify the flight crew if your dog appears stressed so oxygen can be provided.
• Clean up messes promptly to avoid odors stressing dogs.

While some whining or restlessness is normal during the flight, staying positive and keeping your pooch engaged will make for a successful trip. Most dogs doze off eventually. Having experience flying with pets myself, a little preparation goes a long way to an enjoyable flying experience for humans and hounds alike!

After You Land

When your journey has ended, here’s how to properly deplane with your dog:

1. Remain in your seat with carrier until most passengers have deboarded for safety.
2. Exit promptly following instructions while holding carrier.
3. Clear customs and pick up checked baggage if required.
4. Remove collar, ID tags, and let your pup stretch their legs in designated areas only.
5. Provide immediate potty access upon exiting airport property.
6. Give lots of praise, treats and TLC after the day of travel!

Stick to designated pet relief spots rather than letting dogs potty just anywhere in airports or terminals. While it’s tiring for everyone, getting through customs and outside quickly for fresh air is well worth it after flying with pets. Overall, handling the arrival process carefully results in happy humans and hounds concluding their journey.

I hope this extensive guide has covered all the bases for planning, preparing, and executing a smooth flying experience

Flying with Your Dog

Requirement	Details
Carrier	Choose an airline that allows pets in the cabin or cargo hold and check their requirements.
Crate	The crate must be large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in. It must be labeled and leashed for security.
Vaccinations	Your dog needs current rabies, DHLPP and bordetella vaccinations. Bring the vaccination record with the vets contact information.
Restricted Breeds	Some airlines do not accept pit bulls or bully breed dogs due to bans or restrictions. Check your carriers prohibited breeds.
Cabin or Cargo	Smaller dogs may fly in-cabin depending on size and weight limits. Others must fly in climate-controlled cargo hold.

FAQ

1. What documents do I need to bring my dog on a plane?

   Most airlines require you to bring your dog’s vaccinations records showing they are up to date on shots, as well as proof your dog has traveled on a plane before without any problems or maybe a health certificate from your vet. Some airlines also want you to bring your dog’s traveling crate. Basically, check with the specific airline for their rules.

   

2. How early should I get to the airport with my dog?

   I’d recommend arriving at least 2 hours before your flight is supposed to take off if you’re flying with a dog. Airport security checks take a little longer with pets along and you’ll need time to check in your dog as cargo. Allowing extra time prevents stress if there’s a long line or your dog isn’t cooperating during the check in process. The last thing you want is to miss the flight!

3. Are there size or weight limits for dogs on planes?

   Most airlines will only allow dogs under 20 pounds to fly in the cabin with you. Larger dogs have to be checked as cargo. As for size, the traveling crate your dog flies in typically can’t be bigger than around 18x18x8 inches. Check individual airline policies for specific limits though, as they can differ a bit. It’s important your pup meets the requirements to avoid issues down the line.

4. How much does it cost to fly with a dog?

   The cost to bring a dog on a flight varies depending on the airline and dog size. Most charge fees from $125-$175 or more each way just for the dog. Then there may be additional costs like checking your dog’s crate. Basically expect it to add a couple hundred bucks or perhaps more overall. At the same time, flying a larger dog as cargo could be much cheaper than trying to squeeze them under the seat.

5. What is the best way to prepare my dog for flying?

   Experts suggest getting your dog used to their traveling crate before the big day. Feed them in it, give them treats while they’re inside and work on crate training. You also want to get them accustomed to touch all over, like examining their ears and paws, to make vet checks less stressful. Take short car rides and practice patience if they act nervous. Make flying a positive experience whenever possible through desensitization.

6. Can I sit with my dog on the plane?

   For dogs traveling in the cabin, you are allowed to hold them in your lap or have them under the seat in front of you in their crate during takeoff and landing. However, once the seatbelt light goes off, some airlines require you to store the empty crate under the seat and don’t let the dog remain on your lap for the rest of the flight. Policies can differ, so it’s wise to check rules to avoid troubles.

7. Which airlines are most dog friendly?

   Southwest, American, Alaska, and Delta seem to have perhaps the best pet policies and most experience flying dogs according to many experts. Nevertheless, all carriers welcome pets as long as paperwork and health/size rules are followed. The awesome thing about traveling with your canine BFF is the joy they bring, which sort of makes any minor hassles worthwhile in my opinion. What do you think, is it worth it to you to bring dogs along? I’d love to hear people’s experiences!

8. What if my dog is nervous during the flight?

   Some pets get stressed flying due to noises or being in an unfamiliar situation. Try your best to soothe and distract your pup with treats, calming chews or favorite toys. Speak in a happy tone. Ask a flight attendant about soothing music or find ways to block their vision if that helps. Anti-anxiety meds prescribed by your vet are also an option for dogs that don’t do well. With patience and preparation, most dogs adapt awesomely to travel once or twice.