Your Step-by-Step Guide to Flying With a Big Dog
If you need to travel by air with your oversized pooch, having the right information makes the process much less stressful. From choosing the right airline and booking tickets to preparing your pup for takeoff, follow these tips for a smooth flight with your large dog.
Pick an Airline That Allows Large Dogs
Not every airline is equipped or willing to accommodate bigger canine passengers. Your best bet is to fly with an airline that explicitly allows large dogs in the cargo hold like Delta, American, or Alaska Airlines. Check baggage size limits too, as dogs over a certain weight may require an extra fee.
Book Early and Get Confirmation
Once you’ve selected an airline, reserve your spot and your dog’s spot as early as possible. Only a limited number of animals are allowed in the hold per flight, so securing a reservation prevents getting bumped at the last minute. Also get the reservation in writing to avoid misunderstandings at check-in.
Follow Health and Vaccination Requirements
All airlines require up-to-date vaccination records for flying pets, usually rabies, DHLPP (distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza and parvovirus), and bordetella (“kennel cough”). A current health certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel is also standard. Don’t risk being denied boarding without the proper documentation.
Consider Animal Tranquilizers If Your Dog is High-Strung
From my experience as a veterinarian, some dogs get overly anxious during air travel no matter how well they’re prepared. If your large pooch is already nervous, discuss anti-anxiety medication options with your vet that are safe for air transport. A calm dog is less likely to create problems and more able to tolerate the noises and motions of flight.
Check Travel Crate Requirements
The crate used to transport your big dog must meet airline standards for size, strength, and other specs. Make sure it has been crash tested and is appropriately labeled like “live animal” and orientation tags on multiple sides. Measure carefully to avoid getting turned away at the airport.
Prepare Your Dog with Trial Runs
Several days before your trip, start getting your large dog accustomed to the crate. Let them explore it, give treats inside, and work up to short practice sessions with the crate door closed so it doesn’t feel totally foreign and frightening on travel day. Take test drives around the neighborhood too.
Exercise and Feed as Normal
On the big day, maintain your dog’s regular routine as much as possible to reduce stress. Walk, play, and feed them just like any other day. Avoid heavy or greasy foods that could cause an upset stomach at high altitudes.
Arrive Extra Early for Check-In
With a large canine passenger, you’ll want a massive time cushion at the airport. All pets travel in the cargo hold, which means additional paperwork, inspections, and often long lines during peak travel seasons. Plan to check-in at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure.
Double Check Crate Labeling
When you hand off your big pup at the counter, ensure all identification tags on the crate exterior match your dog, you, and the flight reservation exactly. My friend once had his dog routed to the wrong destination due to a typo, which caused major hassle. Take an extra moment to verify everything is correct.
Find Out Where Your Dog Will Wait
Ask airline staff where your beloved pet will be housed from check-in until takeoff as cargo areas can vary in size and amenities by airport. Knowing whether it’s a dedicated animal terminal or just an isolated section of the tarmac allows you to feel at peace about conditions.
Prepare for Pickup After Landing
Just like checking luggage, pets take time to deplane and become available in the destination’s baggage claim. Build a comfy buffer into your itinerary to collect your large pooch upon arrival before need to rush off elsewhere. Tired dogs have been known to pee excitedly upon reuniting too!
In summary, flying a large dog requires extra coordination compared to traveling solo or with smaller canine companions. But with thorough preparation, responsible owners can give their precious furry family members a safe and relatively low-stress air transport experience. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Flying Your Large Dog on a Plane
| Dog Size | Airline | Container Requirements | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over 20 lbs | Delta | Hard-sided kennel | $125 each way |
| Over 50 lbs | United | Soft-sided kennel only if fits under seat | $125 each way |
| Over 25 lbs | American | Hard-sided kennel that fits under seat | $125 each way |
| Any size | Alaska | Hard-sided kennel | $100 each way |
| Over 25 lbs | Southwest | No pets allowed in cabin, only as cargo | $125 each way |
FAQ
- How early should I arrive at the airport with my dog? You’ll want to get to the airport basically as early as possible with Fido flying. Air travel rules say to arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure. That gives you plenty of time to check in ahead of all the other passengers and get your pup settled in his kennel.
- What documents do I need for my dog to fly? You’ll need his health certificate from the vet saying he’s fit to fly. The certificate can’t be older than 10 days. You also need proof of all his vaccinations. The airline will check that everything is in order before allowing him in the cabin or cargo hold. At the same time, have his ID tag on him in case he gets lost along the way, which I hope doesn’t happen!
- Can my dog sit on my lap on the plane? Unfortunately no, even small dogs have to be in an FAA-approved kennel that fits completely under the seat. I kind of wish they could sit on our laps because it seems less stressful for them. But I guess it’s a big safety risk if there’s turbulence. Still, it’s got to be better than being all alone in the cargo belly of the plane!
- Is it safe to transport my dog in the cargo hold? Most airlines say it’s perfectly safe as long as it’s a normal domestic flight. However, some folks have experienced their beloved pets getting injured or even passing away down there due to extreme temperatures or poor handling. I’d only consider it for short flights and make sure your dog is very comfortable in his crate. Perhaps it’s worth paying extra to fly in the main cabin if possible.
- How much will it cost to bring my dog on the plane? The price can vary based on the airline, size of your dog, and whether it’s domestic or international. But generally you’re looking at a fee of $100-300 each way within the US. Then there may be additional charges if your pup exceeds the size or weight limits for the cabin. Just be prepared for some hefty baggage fees!
With a little advance planning and TLC, flying with your furry friend is perfectly safe and doable. I’ll admit I’d be a nervous wreck if it was my dog’s first flight. But just follow the rules and your pup should be cruising at 30,000 feet before you know it! Let me know if any other questions come up – I’d be happy to help how I can.