How to Fly With Your Pitbull: A Guide to Flying With American Staffordshire Terriers

A Complete Guide to Flying with Your Pitbull

If you and your pitbull love to travel but aren’t sure about flying with your furry friend, this guide has you covered! From transportation regulations to in-flight tips, we’ll reveal everything you need to know to take your pitbull on a plane.

Checking Regulations

The first step is to check regulations for flying with your pitbull. Most domestic US airlines allow pitbulls to travel as regular checked baggage as long as they meet certain requirements.

1. Your pitbull must be at least 6 months old.
2. You’ll need their health records and vaccinations to be up to date.
3. They must travel in an FAA-approved hard-sided kennel that fits under the seat in front of you.

Some airlines also have weight restrictions, usually around 20 pounds or less for pitbulls in the cabin. Heavier dogs may need to travel as cargo. It’s a good idea to contact your specific airline well in advance to check regulations and any fees that apply.

Preparing Your Pitbull

Once you know your pitbull is allowed on the flight, it’s time to get them used to flying. With some training, your dog will feel more comfortable in the unfamiliar environment of an airplane.

Crate Training: Make sure your pitbull’s kennel feels safe and secure. Feed them in there and give treats and praise when they go inside voluntarily.

Desensitization: Practice handling exercises like looking in their ears, paws, and checking their mouth. Slowly get them used to things like ID tags, leashes, and inspectors touching them.

Noise Exposure: Play kennel videos or recordings of jet engine noises to minimize stress from unfamiliar sounds at the airport.

Also get your pitbull microchipped in case their kennel gets lost. And don’t feed them for a few hours before travel to avoid motion sickness.

Checking In

When you arrive at the airport on travel day, allow extra time to check your pitbull in. I’ve faced situations where lines were long. Airlines may inspect your dog’s health, kennel, and occasionally even weigh your pup on a scale.

Have paperwork and ID tags ready to show your pitbull meets requirements. Despite thorough prep, nerves can kick in for your dog. Soothing them with pets and praise through the process can help. Most of all remain calm yourself so they don’t sense your stress!

During the Flight

Once your pitbull is checked in, it’s time for takeoff! Most airlines will gate-check larger kennels and have them placed in cargo holds below the plane. Smaller kennels can sometimes ride in the main cabin at your feet.

Hearing other animals aboard may ease anxiety. Consider bringing toys or treats in sealed bags to help calm your pitbull throughout the flight. Be aware extended amounts of barking or howling could disturb passengers, so try to minimize noise as much as possible.

Remember, from my experience the majority of dogs do just fine in flight. While turbulence or changes in cabin pressure can be unsettling, modern planes are pressurized to minimize discomfort. Your pitbull will be in the very capable hands of trained airline staff.

Arriving at Your Destination

Upon landing, your pitbull will be one of the first items retrieved from cargo. Have their leash, collar, and kennel ready to quickly reunite with your furry best friend! They may seem frightened or disoriented initially, but will quickly perk up once back in familiar arms.

Take things slow reintroducing sights and sounds after travel. Your pitbull will appreciate gentle pets, praise, water, and maybe a snack or toy from home. With some post-flight TLC, they’ll be back to their old selves in no time!

Hopefully these tips provide reassurance that flying with a pitbull is totally doable. Proper planning and preparation is key to ensuring a smooth trip for you and your pup. Safe travels!

Important Considerations for Flying with Your Pitbull

Requirement	Details
Carrier approval	Check with your selected airline that they allow pitbulls as checked baggage and adhere to any size/breed restrictions.
Crate requirements	The crate must be large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around comfortably, have proper ventilation, and be approved by the carrier.
Health certificate	An up-to-date certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel is usually required, stating your dog is healthy, vaccinated, and parasite-free.
Identification	Your dog must wear ID tags inside and outside the crate with your contact details in case of emergency.
Cabin vs cargo	Some carriers allow pitbulls in-cabin for a fee if under 20 lbs, otherwise cargo hold is only option due to safety regulations.

FAQ

1. Can I bring my pitbull on the plane as a carry-on?

   Basically no, pitbulls are too big to be considered a carry-on. You’ll need to check them as baggage. Make sure to bring their carrier, food, water, medications etc as checked baggage too.

2. What paperwork is required to fly with a pitbull?

   You’ll need their vaccination records showing they are up to date on shots. The airlines may also require a health certificate from your vet stating your pup is fit to fly. Better safe than sorry – get the paperwork in order before your flight.

   

3. How can I make my pitbull comfortable on the plane?

   Bring their favorite toys, treats, and a cozy blanket to help them relax. Talk to them soothingly and try calming treats if they seem anxious. Ask for a sedated pet area at check-in if available. Hopefully remembering fun car rides will get them through the flight with minimal stress.

4. What airlines allow pitbulls as emotional support animals?

   Many major carriers do allow pitbulls, but they must be designated as emotional support animals with proper veterinary documentation. The rules frequently change though, so always check directly with your airline. Be prepared with alternate flying arrangements just in case.

5. Are there any size or weight limits for flying with a pitbull?

   Most airlines have size and weight limits for pets, usually around 20 pounds or so. Measure your pup and check the airline rules carefully to avoid surprises. Oversized dogs may have to travel as cargo instead of in the cabin. Always best to verify details directly with your carrier.

6. What if my pitbull acts out on the plane?

   However, if they start barking or seem overly anxious, the flight crew has the right to move you both to the cargo area. So do practice your pitbull’s training and socialization before flying. But at the same time, try to stay positive – most puppers do fine with some love and patience.

7. Is it very expensive to fly with a pitbull?

   Flying with any dog generally costs extra fees. On top of the ticket, you can expect to pay around $100-250 per direction for your pitbull. Nevertheless, there may be occasional sales if booked far enough in advance. Veterinary documents and a carrier will also require additional expenses to prepare. But for many owners, the convenience is worth it compared to driving long distances.

8. What do I do if my pitbull is denied boarding?

   Hopefully thorough prep work will prevent this. But if denied at the gate, politely ask why to better prepare next time. You could also try another flight later that day if available. Last option is to drive instead, but coordinate transport carefully. Stay calm – getting emotional won’t help convince the staff. Better luck on your next flight!

   

So in short – secure any required documents, use protective carriers, bring comfort items, check airline rules thoroughly, and ideally practice calm behaviors together beforehand. With some planning, most pitbulls can fly quite enjoyably. Just keep positive and be prepared for potential challenges too. How does this help summarize flying with the breed? Let me know if any part requires more explanation!