Flying with a dog: short dog travel guide for pet parents

Proper preparation is an absolute must when you are flying with a dog. It may sound like an easy way to get to your destination, but flying with a dog requires particular supplies, advanced planning and organization. The first thing you’ll need to do is find an airline that will allow your pet aboard a plane and ask what specific regulations they have.

Video: ✈ 8 Tips For Flying With A Pet ✈

Every airline is different. Not all airlines allow pets, and the ones that do all have their own set of rules. Some allow small dogs to ride in the cabin with you – providing they are riding in an airline compliant carrier. If this is something you’re interested in, you’ll likely have to book your trip well in advance.

Even if your canine companion will be riding in the cargo hold, you’ll still need a compliant carrier. You’ll also need to make sure that your dog has the proper supplies that he’ll need during the journey. Making a list and checking things off as you go is the best way to insure smooth travelling.

Flying With A Dog: Short Dog Travel Guide for Pet Parents

Pet Identification Precautions

When flying with your dog, have him microchipped before flying anywhere. Unfortunately, pets do sometimes get lost in transit. He could also get lost after you get there. Even the most cautious dog owners lose their pets from time to time.

Dogs love to explore new surroundings and are often very adept at finding an opportune moment to slip past you through an open door. Getting lost while travelling is doubly dangerous for dogs. Being away from home makes it impossible for the dog to find his way back. It is much more likely that he will get hopelessly lost and never be reunited with his owner.

Microchips make finding your lost dog 2.5 times more likely. A 134.2kHz microchip is required by many countries outside of the United States. If you are flying with your dog to another country, have this type of microchip implanted.

Video: Pet Transportation: Flying Your Pets - Before and After the Flight

Dogs that already have a 125 kHz or 128kHz microchip may need to have a 134.2kHz microchip implanted, too.

It is not ideal for the dog to have two microchips, but it will not hurt him and might be the only way he will be allowed in another country. Firmly attach an identification tag to his collar, too. The tag should have the dog’s name and your telephone number printed on it.

Have a cell phone number and another number on the tag. The other telephone number could be for a home phone or work phone. The chances of a lost dog being reunited with his owner are much greater if there are two numbers to call.

Health Requirements

Before flying with a dog, you’ll need to take him to see his veterinarian. Make sure he is healthy, free from parasites and up-to-date on all of his vaccinations. Tell the veterinarian where you are flying to with your dog. Vaccination requirements vary from state to state.

A disease that your dog would not need to be vaccinated for at home could be a big issue in another state. Be sure to firmly attach your dog’s rabies tag to his collar. Contact travel authorities at your intended destination to find out what their requirements are for dogs flying into the country with their owners.

They will give you a list of required immunizations and let you know if they have a mandatory animal quarantine period. Your dog may have to be examined by his veterinarian then sealed in his crate by the veterinarian just prior to going to the airport.

If you know your dog is a nervous traveler, ask about medications that can help him stay calm. A Thundershirt works to keep 80% of dogs calm. They are available in a variety of colors and in sizes to fit dogs from 15 to 65 pounds. Thundershirts cost between $40 and $50. Floral essences and certain essential oils might also help to calm your pet’s anxiety.

Hotel Reservations

Make arrangements to stay at a pet-friendly hotel. There are many hotels that are happy to let your pet stay there with you. Most Red Roof Inns, Motel 6’s and LaQuinta hotels will welcome your dog free of charge.

They may have a weight limit, though, so be sure to clarify if you are flying in with a large or small dog. Keep your dog’s crate in the hotel room and put him in the crate when you leave the room. Your dog will be safer, and he will not be able to make a mess of the room.

Reviews & Comments