All You Need to Know About Plane Pet Carriers
Traveling by air with your furry companions can be stressful for both you and your pets. To help make the journey as comfortable and safe as possible, this guide will answer all your questions about using plane pet carriers. By the end, you’ll feel prepared and at ease about flying with Fido or Fluffy.
Why Are Plane Pet Carriers Required?
Airlines mandate pet carriers for several important safety reasons. Pets need to be securely contained under the seat in front of you for takeoff and landing when cabin pressure and turbulence levels are highest. An loose animal could easily be injured if roaming free during these critical flight phases. Carriers also prevent pets from interfering with airplane operations or bothering other passengers.
Federal regulations strictly prohibit holding pets on your lap or letting them loose in the aircraft cabin. Pet carriers provide the sole approved method for traveling safely with animals on commercial flights. So make sure to have an appropriate carrier for each pet joining you in the cabin.
What Are the Pet Carrier Size Guidelines?
Most airlines impose size limits to ensure carriers fit properly under airline seats without blocking legroom or dangling into the aisle. The general guideline is that the carrier, including your pet, must be able to fit completely under the seat in front of you with the door/hatch facing toward your feet. Pay close attention to individual carrier dimension limits set by your chosen airline.
Some allow carriers up to 18 inches long by 14 inches high and 10 inches wide. Measure your carrier both inside and out, including any removable carrying handles, to double check it conforms to size policies. Oversized carriers risk denial at check-in. And squished pets aren’t comfortable flyers!
Hard-Sided or Soft-Sided Carriers?
Both rigid plastic or metal carriers and flexible fabric/mesh “pet taxis” are permitted options. Hard carriers provide maximum containment but may be heavier to lift. Soft carriers are lighter for carrying but your wiggly pet could possibly force its way out in flight. Make sure zippers, latches, and bolts are secure to fully enclose your pet inside.
Some folks swear by hard-sided carriers for safety while others feel pets stay calmer in soft-sided versions. Select what suits your pet’s temperament and needs best. Just be certain it satisfies size policies and reliably confines Fido throughout the journey.
Other Essential Pet Carrier Features
No matter the type, look for carriers with these important attributes:
- Ventilation – Holes, mesh panels, or open louvres allow airflow without your pet escaping.
- Comfort – Padded interior, resting pad, water bowl attachment.
- Identification – Name/contact labels on both inside and outside.
- Carry Handles – For lifting, especially crucial on hard carriers.
- Locking Mechanism – Securely latches pet inside sturdy carrier.
Adequate ventilation is key to prevent overheating. Consider your pet’s size – larger dogs or multiple critters may prefer dividers or multiple carriers. Take test runs to ensure your pet is comfy yet remains fully contained.
Other Travel Tips
When flying with pets, also keep these pointers in mind:
Health Forms: airlines require valid health/vaccine records. Bring copies, not originals.
Boarding Process: allow extra time and check special procedures for flying with pets.
Cabin Luggage: carrier counts as your personal item if it fits under the seat. Gate check if too big.
In-flight: adjust any noisy toys or treats that may distract others. Consider calming aids like pheromone sprays.
Bathroom Breaks: flying can dehydrate. Offer water every 3 hours. Check carrier toilet training if long haul flights.
From my experience, being well prepared puts pets and their people totally at ease for flying. Choosing the right carrier makes a world of difference in creating a smooth journey. Safe travels to you and your furry companion!
Common Pet Carrier Mistakes to Avoid
Now that the basics are covered, what are some pet carrier errors folks tend to make? Let’s review a few potential slip-ups:
Oversized Carrier: as mentioned before, this is a big no-no. Most airlines have strict floor space limits under seats.
Loose Zippers/Latches: carriers must keep pets 100% contained like a kennel. Test doors thoroughly to avoid unhappy surprises mid-flight.
Poor Ventilation: humidity can rise fast inside with no air flow. Look for multiple ventilation points on all sides of the carrier.
Lack of Comforts: think how you’d feel crammed in a hard box for hours! Padding, toys, water bowl make stress-free critters.
No Identification: outside name/address labels plus internal ID are critical in case carriers get misplaced during travel.
Forgetting Supplies: vitamins, calming aids, etc. Pack health papers and spare copies too to save hassle at check-in.
Avoid these common mistakes and your pet and fellow passengers will thank you. Proper carrier choice is the foundation for smooth sailing at 30,000 feet with your pets.
Handling Travel Anxiety in Pets
Stress-free pets mean stress-free flying for owners too. While no guarantees in life, these tips can help anxious animals traveling by air stay chill:
Desensitization Training: get pets used to carriers in calm, positive ways well before the big trip. Toss treats inside and around it over days.
Calming Supplements: ask your vet about natural calming aid options that may take the edge off. Start a few days before flying.
Short, Happy Car Rides: associate carriers positively by bringing Fido along on calm errands around town in his carrier for weeks prior.
Low-Key Days Pre-Flight: limit stimulation before flying. Pets should feel safe, secure and as normal as possible right up to departure.
With patience and planning, even fearful flyers can adjust better to plane travel and carriers. Consult your vet if extremely anxious as anti-anxiety meds may help in rare cases.
Flying Internationally with Pets
Taking pets intercontinental requires vastly more preparation. Here’s a quick overview:
Health Certificates: vet paperwork must satisfy import/export rules of ALL countries en route + destination. Allow lead time!
Vaccinations: specific vaccinations beyond the norm like rabies may be mandated. Discuss with vet well in advance.
Quarantine: some nations require up to 6 months confinement upon arrival. Know import policies or leave pets at home.
Kennel Your Pet Cargo during international legs due to cabin restrictions. Have an IATA-approved carrier and organize shipping directly with airlines.
Pet Passports: if traveling within the EU, a standardized pet passport eases cross-borders vet checks and boarding paperwork.
International travel logistics are no joke with pets in tow. Thorough preparation is crucial to avoid medical or legal complications en route. Consider finding a destination more pet-friendly too!
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pet Carrier for Your Flight
| Type | Size | Ventilation | Comfort | Security |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soft-sided | Small, medium, large | Mesh panels allow airflow | Padded bottom and sides | Zippers that lock |
| Hard-sided | One-size-fits-all | Vents along top and sides | Rigid walls for stability | Locking latches |
| Backpack or tote | Adjustable straps for size | Meshed backing | Distributes weight evenly | Zippers and clips |
| Sling or tote | Collapses for smaller pets | Lightweight mesh | Comfortable handle or strap | Snap or Velcro closures |
FAQ
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What size pet carrier should I get for my plane trip?
It’s best to purchase a carrier that fits under the airplane seat in front of you. Most major airlines require the carrier to fit completely underneath the seat and not take up extra space in the aisle or overhead bin. Measure the space you’ll have and try to stay within roughly 12x10x10 inches or smaller.
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Will my pet be comfortable in the carrier during the flight?
While flying can be stressful for pets, there are things you can do to help your furry friend feel at ease. Bring blankets, toys, and treats to keep them entertained. Consider calming supplements or anxiety wraps too. Make sure they have space to stand up and turn around. Proper ventilation and some water is also important for longer flights. With some preparation, even anxious animals can tolerate carrier travel.
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Is my pet allowed in the cabin?
Most major airlines permit small dogs and cats to fly in the cabin as long as they remain in an approved carrier under the seat. Rules vary slightly by carrier though, so always check the specific policies for your airline. Make sure to bring medical papers in case they’re requested. It’s best to book early too since there are usually limits to the number of pets per flight for safety and space reasons.
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What if my pet is afraid of the carrier?
If your pet seems to strongly dislike or fear their carrier, you’ll want to do some desensitization training before the big day. Basically take it slow, starting far away and working closer over time. Use high value treats or toys only available inside to build positive associations. Consider enlisting a professional trainer too if your pet is really fearful. With patience, most pets can learn to tolerate the carrier, even if they don’t love it.
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Do airlines charge a fee for pets?
Yes, all airlines will charge an extra fee to bring pets in the cabin. Prices range but are generally around $125 each way for dogs and cats. Some charge more for peaks travel days too. But alternatively, crating pets in the cargo hold area poses risks and most experts agree they’re safest in the cabin with their owner. Despite the cost, many travelers feel the small additional charge is worth it for their pet’s safety and comfort kinda.
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What other tips should I keep in mind?
Be sure to check your airline’s policies for updates before flying and consider booking early. Also bring spare copies of key paperwork in case your wallet gets misplaced or stolen. Don’t overwhelm your pet with too much attention upon entering the carrier – keep entry positive but brief. And have a plan B just in case extreme stress ends up warranting driving instead. Safe travels to you and your furry friend!