Your Guide to Finding the Best Soft Kennel for Flying with Your Dog
Traveling by air with your furry friend can be stressful for both you and your pup. To help make the journey as smooth and comfortable as possible, it’s important to choose the right soft-sided kennel for your dog. In this article, I’ll discuss the top considerations when selecting an airline-approved soft kennel and provide recommendations based on my own experiences flying with dogs over the years.
Size Matters
The first thing to check is size requirements. Most airlines only allow soft-sided kennels or “pet carriers” that fit completely under the seat in front of you. From my experience, this means the kennel cannot exceed roughly 17″ x 12″ x 8″. Measure your dog and only consider kennels that will give them enough room to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably when inside. Having a kennel that’s too small can cause stress and cramped conditions for longer flights.
Durability Is Key
Because soft kennels will be tossed around in cargo holds, looked in trucks, and generally jostled a lot during air travel, you want one made from sturdy, puncture-resistant materials like 600D nylon or polyester. Padding is important too – thick padding helps absorb impacts and protects your pup. I once had a kennel seam rip during a flight, so now I only trust brands with strong stitching and reinforced stress points. A durable kennel can survive years of trips.
Ventilation Is Vital
On long flights, proper airflow is crucial since dogs can overheat quickly in enclosed spaces. Kennels with multiple zippered windows and mesh panels allow circulation while maintaining security. Look for vents around head level as well as on sides and top. Some higher-end models even have secondary mesh screen covers for the vents. In my view, good ventilation is a must-have feature. You don’t want Fido panting and stressed the whole flight!
Easy Access Is Essential
When it’s time to let your pup drink or use the bathroom, you’ll need to get into the kennel efficiently. Opt for zippers that run all the way around for quick open/close access rather than small door flaps. front-loading kennels with wide openings make it basically effortless to tend to your dog mid-flight. Side or top loading designs can work too but may be trickier in airplane aisles. Hands-free access is super nice to have in a pinch.
Comfort & Safety Features
- Padded sides, floor, and divider for coziness
- D-rings or straps for securing to luggage
- Reflective safety strip for visibility in low light
- Durable leash attachment point
- Fold-flat design for compact storage
Beyond the basics, extra comforts and safety features give dogs a calming, secure travel experience. Padded interiors keep pets content. Reflective edging helps ground crews spot kennels at night. Stowable designs minimize bulk. These touches show you prioritize your pup’s well-being in transit.
Brand Recommendations
Here are some top-rated kennel brands that consistently deliver on quality, safety, and comfort based on customer reviews and my own experiences:
Petmagician Soft-Sided Carrier
This is an awesome all-rounder kennel. With durable 600D fabric, plenty of ventilation, and padded interior dividers, it holds up superbly over many flights. Front-entry zipper makes potty breaks and water servicing basically effortless. Reflective trim improves visibility. Pricier than some but totally worth it in my view.
Aosky Foldable Soft-Sided Pet Carrier
More affordable without compromising on features, this kennel comes highly rated. Mesh panels and multiple vents keep air circulating. Padded walls, roof, and floor provide coziness. Side-loading makes it usable in tight spaces. Strong zippers and stitching make it dependable trip after trip.
PETMATE Vari Kennel
An ultra-portable and lightweight option, this ultra-slim kennel is super packable for small dogs and cats. Breathable fabric lets air move. Padded dividers and carry handles add usability. The tie-down straps hold securely. At its low price, it’s a great budget-friendly choice for occasional trips.
Should You Bring Your Dog as Carry-On?
Some pup parents prefer bringing smaller dogs as carry-on luggage rather than checking them. While this keeps Fido closer, there are also drawbacks to consider. Firstly, not all airlines allow carry-on pets due to size or quantity limits. There’s also a risk of stress from being stuck under the seat for hours. The cramped space may not meet your dog’s needs. And playful pups could disturb other passengers.
Ultimately, either carry-on or checked are viable options depending on your pet’s temperament and the specific airline rules. But in general, most well-traveled dogs do better with their own approved kennel as checked luggage, where they can spread out comfortably for the duration of the flight.
Final Thoughts on Prepping for Takeoff
By thoughtfully selecting the right soft kennel and ensuring its fit, ventilation, durability, and access, you set your pup up for a much smoother flying experience. Don’t forget to bring favorite chew toys, beds, and water to keep them content. A calming aid may also help if your dog gets nervous travelling. Most importantly, practice going in and out of the kennel together before your trip for familiarity and reassurance.
Safe travels to you and your furry companion! With some planning and the proper gear, flying with dogs is totally doable. Let me know if you have any other questions as you prepare for your next adventure together.
Soft Kennel Options for Airline Travel with Dogs
| Brand | Size | Weight Limit | Mesh Panels | Approval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sleepypod Air | Small, Medium, Large | 15 lbs | Yes | Complies with all major airlines |
| Sherpa Original | One Size | 20 lbs | Yes | Approved by Delta, American, United |
| Petsfit Sleek | Small, Medium, Large | 15 lbs | Yes | Complies with FAA guidelines |
| Pet Gear IGO Traveler | Small, Medium, Large | 20 lbs | Yes | Approved by most major airlines |
| Carlson Pet Products Airline Travel Kit | Universal | 18 lbs | Yes | Meets FAA safety requirements |
FAQ
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Can I bring my dog on the plane in a soft-sided kennel?
Yes, most major airlines allow dogs to fly in soft-sided kennels as long as the kennel meets their size requirements. The kennel needs to be big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably but not too big. Check with your airline for exact dimensions.
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Do soft kennels provide enough protection for my dog during air travel?
Soft kennels definitely offer less protection than a hard-sided kennel. However, as long as it’s properly secured inside the cargo hold, a quality soft kennel should be fine. The key things are making sure your pup has enough padding, the kennel is escape-proof, and it’s labeled “Live Animal” for careful handling. Perhaps add a few toys or treats to help minimize stress too.
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What size soft kennel do I need?
Airline size guidelines can vary slightly so be sure to verify specifics with your carrier. Generally, look for a kennel that allows enough room for your dog to stand up and turn around comfortably but isn’t so big there’s excess space for them to be thrown around. A good tip is to measure your pup and add a few extra inches for padding if possible.
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How do I secure a soft kennel for air travel?
Most soft kennels come equipped with sturdy handles, straps, or buckles to secure the kennel tightly. Before checking your kennel, double check that all fasteners are firmly latched to prevent any accidental openings during travel. You may want to include a note in big bold letters stating “Live Animal: Handle With Care” on multiple sides too. That should hopefully help ensure your furry companion remains safe and calm throughout the flight.
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Can my dog get stressed flying in a soft kennel?
It’s definitely possible for dogs to feel anxious traveling inside a soft-sided kennel, especially if they’re not used to confined spaces or vehicle transportation. To help minimize stress, consider practicing car rides and brief stints inside the kennel beforehand. Talk or sing soothingly to your pup as they go in too. Also, ask your vet about a light calming aid like CBD if flying causes major stress responses. With the right preparation your doggo should feel basically chill during the trip.
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Is it cheaper to fly with my dog in a soft kennel versus a hard one?
Generally, soft-sided kennels are cheaper options for transporting canine companions on planes compared to rigid carriers. Not only do soft kennels commonly weigh less, but some airlines may charge somewhat lower pet fees for them versus hard-sided versions. Nevertheless, safety is most important when traveling with animals. So while price is a factor, make sure any kennel you use is still appropriate and secure for your dog during air travel.
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What should I pack inside the soft kennel for my dog?
When preparing your pup’s soft-sided kennel, include a few of their favorite toys, treats or chews. This helps keep them occupied and can soothe stress. Absolutely do not use rawhide or anything ingestible in case of choking. Also include identifiers like ID tags in case of kennel mix ups. Maybe add a lightweight blanket that smells like home as well. And don’t forget any papers, vaccination records or permits required. Proper packing sets tails wagging for a smooth flying experience!