A Guide to Air Travel with Your Big Pup
Traveling by plane with a large dog can definitely be a hassle, but it’s totally doable with some planning. As someone who has flown cross-country multiple times with my 130-pound Great Dane, I’ve learned a thing or two about navigating the process. In this article, I’ll break down everything you need to know to fly with your oversized pooch, from booking considerations to what to pack andexpectations for the flight itself. By the end, your furry friend should be an airline travel pro!
Booking Your Flight
The first step is selecting an airline that allows pets in the cabin. Most carriers will permit one dog per passenger in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Always check baggage size limits, as extra-large dog crates may require a spot in the cargo hold. You’ll also need to purchase a “pet ticket” which typically runs $125 each way for flights in the U.S. and Canada.
When scheduling your trip, try to fly non-stop if possible to minimize stress on Fido. Red-eye flights while we’re sleeping tend to go smoother too. I’d also avoid peak travel times around holidays when planes are more packed. Most airlines allow you to pre-book your dog’s ticket when you purchase your own, but space is limited so book early!
Pet-Friendly Carrier
Federal regulations require dogs to be contained in a sturdy carrier that fits completely under the seat. Soft-sided carriers supposedly provide dogs more comfort than hard plastic ones. I went with a collapsible fabric crate that folds up small but expands to give my Dane adequate room to stand up and turn around. Make sure the crate meets size limits for your specific airline too.
Proper Identification
All pets must have updated vaccinations and vet health records to fly. I got my dog microchipped as extra identification just in case of any mix-ups. Your dog’s carrier should display their name, your info, and “Live Animal” tags clearly visible too. Double check your dog’s paperwork matches their crate labels to avoid delays during check-in.
Tranquilizers (If Needed)
Consider asking your vet about a mild anti-anxiety medication for flights. My dog gets freaked out easily in new places, so a low-dose sedative takes the edge off without knocking him out. Of course, you know your pup best – some dogs do fine without meds. I’d do a test run at home first if given something new.
Proper Packaging of Supplies
In addition to your dog, the crate should only contain items needed for the flight like their leash, a favorite toy or chew, and travel water and food bowls. Avoid extra bags that could shift around during takeoff/landing. I like to line the crate with pee pads just in case and bring a plastic bag for clean-up. Don’t forget IDs and any medication in your carry-on too.
At the Airport
Arrive extra early as the check-in process takes longer with pets. Follow all signs to the airline’s pet area and have paperwork and the critter itself ready to show staff. They’ll likely inspect the crate and make sure basics are covered before issuing a travel tag to attach. Once through security, it’s usually a long wait at the gate.
Boarding and Taking Off
When boarding is called, I like to hang back and let the line die down before joining with the dog crate. Other passengers seem less annoyed that way. Once situated, try to calm and reassure your pup as the plane taxis and lifts off. Snacks and soothing talk should distract them from engine noises. Most dogs zonk out the minute the seatbelt signs go off anyway.
In-Flight
I normally let my dog stick his head out the front of the crate in-flight so he can see and smell what’s going on. Just be ready to quickly close it during serve times. Consider bringing wet wipes to help keep his paws and fur clean too. I also stack together a few airline blankets to provide extra padding under the crate for comfort. Stay hydrated yourself as the cabin can get stuffy.
Landing and Baggage Claim
Approach landing the same as takeoff – keep doggo faced forward and reassured. Once on the ground, wait for a lull before deplaning like earlier. Getting past the jetway and terminal usually means the ordeal is over! Then it’s a dip into the car or off to the hotel for some well-deserved rest and bellyrubs.
Alternatives to Flying Cabin
If your pup simply cannot handle flying on the plane, consider driving instead or using a professional pet transportation service. They provide door-to-door crate transport in the cargo hold, where animals tend to fare better with less stimuli. Some even offer live video monitoring and extra amenities. Of course, driving yourself gives the most control over breaks and comfort stops.
So in summary – with the right planning, accommodations and TLC, air travel is totally doable for big dogs. Use your airline’s pet policies as a guide, get vet clearance, ensure proper containment and ID, pack supplies wisely, know boarding procedures, and focus on keeping your furry pal comfortable and calmly reassured. With patience, it can go seamlessly! Just remember, the hardest part may actually be keeping yourself together – your dog will likely take it all in stride, my man. Safe flying to you both!
Tips for Air Travel with Large Dogs
| Airline | Advance Notice | Crate Size | Weight Limit | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | At least 48 hours | Hard-sided; at least 6 inches bigger than dog on all sides | 70 lbs | $125 each way |
| American | At least 24 hours | Soft-sided; enclosure touches dog’s nose to tail | No limit | $100 each way |
| United | At least 48 hours | Hard-sided; allows dog to stand up and turn around | 120 lbs | $125 each way |
| Alaska | At least 48 hours | Soft-sided; enclosure touches dog’s nose to tail | 110 lbs combined weight of dog and carrier | $125 each way |
| JetBlue | At least 48 hours | Soft-sided pet carrier or crate | No limit | $125 each way |
FAQ
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Can I bring my large dog on an airplane?
Most airlines will let you bring your doggy on the plane as long as it’s stored safely under the seat in front of you. But bigger pups might need to ride in the cargo hold instead of the cabin due to limited legroom. Rules vary by airline, so it’s best to check ahead of time before boarding with your furry friend.
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What paperwork do I need for an airline dog?
You’ll need to bring your pooch’s vaccination records showing they are up-to-date on shots. The airline may also want proof your dog is well-trained and won’t cause any troubles. Some lines want you to buy the pup its own plane ticket too. Do your homework beforehand to know the proper documents.
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Is it stressful for large dogs to fly?
The flying experience can surely be unsettling for bigger breed babies. All that noise and shaking around at 30,000 feet is kinda freaky! You may need medication from the vet to keep doggo calm. Bringing a favorite toy or blanket can offer comfort too. But maybe consider driving long distances instead of putting pup through potential stress.
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How much does it cost to fly with an oversized dog?
Prices change depending on the airline. However, you can expect to pay extra bucks—like maybe a hundred or so—just for the big boy’s ticket. And there may be additional fees if Fido needs a separate kennel during transit. So flying a large woof machine gets pricey fast! It can end up cheaper to drive if possible.
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Should I sedate my large dog for a flight?
That depends. If your pooch regularly freaks out over loud sounds or new places, ask the vet about giving an anti-anxiety med before takeoff. This can help relax doggo and make the journey smoother for both of you. But watch that your pup doesn’t get too sleepy—you’ll still need them reasonably alert just in case of an emergency. Consider pros and cons with your vet.
Is it safe to put my large dog in the cargo hold?
Airline dog regulations are set up with safety in mind. Nonetheless, cargo conditions may freak out even calm pups due to loud machinery below. Temperatures can also vary more drastically than in the cabin. Unfortunately there isn’t much room under airplane seats for huge hounds. So it’s really a tradeoff between comfort or possible dangers. Experts advise calling the airline ahead of time to ensure your dog’s cage will stay in temperature-controlled pressurized areas if riding below rather than above with humans.
What if my large dog acts up on the plane?
If Fido somehow becomes rowdy or disruptive in flight, the crew may need to move him away from other passengers. They could relocate the pup to an empty row alone or further back in cargo for the rest of the trip. Now this would suck big time for both you and dog! So it is important to know your pet’s limits, keep them restrained properly at all times, and maybe sedate anxious animals beforehand to avoid such awkies. Let’s just hope everyone stays nice and calm for takeoff.
Are there any travel tips for flying with a big breed dog?
Bring foods, snacks, and water your poochgo loves in case of long delays. Pack extra pee pads just in case too. Make sure pup has ID tags with your contact info, and travel documentation is easily accessible. Consider marking dog’s carrier to make it more noticeable at the airport. Give plenty of lovins and reassurance when waiting to board—and maybe bring toys for entertainment. With patience and prep, you and big boo can fly together with fewer worries. Bon voyage!