If you’re traveling with your dog by air, you want to make sure that the experience is as stress-free as possible both for you and your furry friend. Fly Easy with Your Dog. Here are some helpful hints to make the process go smoothly and ensure that your dog has an enjoyable flight!
How to Make Flying with Your Dog as Stress-Free as Possible
How to Enjoy a Trip Like A Pro
Global Entry: A Traveler’s Best Friend
Picking the right airline
When it comes to flying with a dog, there are two types of airlines: those that allow dogs in-cabin and those that don’t. If you’re flying on an airline that allows pets in cabins, then you should be OK. However, if your airline doesn’t fly pets in cabins, then you will have a few options for getting your dog to your destination. First, check out Pets Fly and United PetSafe for up-to-date info on which airlines allow pet travel—and keep these tips in mind when booking your flight:
1) Even if you are traveling on an airline that allows pets in cabins, try to book them on a direct flight whenever possible.
2) Always reserve your seat next to you for your dog.
3) Keep your dog leashed at all times (except during take off and landing).
4) Don’t forget about travel fees! Some airlines charge $100 or more per trip for transporting pets, so make sure you factor that into your budget before booking.
5) Remember that each airline has its own rules regarding traveling with animals, so double-check their policies before making any reservations.
Picking the right carrier
If you’re traveling for just a couple of hours, or if you don’t need your dog to be separated from you at all, a soft carrier might be an option. This will allow your dog to stay by your side and see what’s going on around him.
But for longer flights, or situations where separation may be required (security checkpoints), consider a hard carrier that allows both security and visibility. Check out our guide on how to choose the right size of pet carrier for more information on picking out a well-fitting choice!
Filling out health forms
The Department of Transportation (DOT) does not require pet owners to show proof of health for pets that are being transported on commercial airlines. However, airlines do have their own regulations when it comes to flying with a dog, so if you don’t want to get rejected at check-in or turned away at security, be sure to read up on what they require before heading out.
The most important thing is to call ahead and speak directly with an airline representative about your specific plans.
They’ll let you know if there are any extra steps you need take—such as providing proof of vaccination—in order for your pooch get on board.
Planning for delays
Travelling by plane is a stressful enough experience for people, so if you’re travelling with your dog, it can be tempting to avoid layovers and endure longer travel times. Unfortunately, air travel is unpredictable, which means delays are inevitable.
To help minimize your stress while flying with your dog (and everyone else’s), make sure you choose flights that have layovers of no more than one hour or take direct flights whenever possible.
Putting your pet in cargo holds
The process of checking your pet into cargo is a pain, but it beats keeping your pooch in a cage for hours on end. It’s worth paying extra if you have to; consider paying $100 more than you need to in order to ensure that your dog will be kept comfortable during his or her trip.
And if you can, try to pick an airline that allows dogs (or cats) in cabins; Southwest and American Airlines, for example, do.
Bringing your pet in cabin baggage
it’s more convenient and safer than placing your pet in cargo, where he might get lost, stressed out, or overheated. But if you’re wondering how to make flying with your dog comfortable and stress-free—and what pet supplies you need—we’ve got answers for you. Here are a few of our top tips for traveling with your furry friend.
You can also follow these guidelines when traveling via plane by car or train, but please check with all carriers before your trip to ensure that they allow dogs in cabin baggage; some airlines require a travel crate be used for transportation!
How to Enjoy a Trip Like A Pro
Global Entry: A Traveler’s Best Friend