Travelling is often a stressful, time-consuming experience, but another layer of concern is added when you add pets into the equation. Preparing your pets for flying can be difficult and takes preparation but is easily accomplished with careful planning. The biggest areas of concern are airport regulations, your pet’s health, the weather, and your pet’s comfort. But with ample research and planning, your flight can go smoothly for both you and your pet.
1. Research the Airline
The best way to prepare your pets for flying is for you, as their owner, to be prepared. Every airline has different policies related to animals, so you’ll need to research those policies online and contact an airline representative with any questions. And while pet-friendly travel is increasingly accessible, there are still strict rules every owner must follow.
The most important question is whether your pet will be allowed to fly. Only service animals are protected by law. And while flying with small dogs has become common, other pets (especially exotics) may have restrictions placed on them. If your pet is eligible to fly, find out if they can be brought into the cabin in place of a carry-on or personal item.
Many airports have quarantine areas for dogs and other companion animals. Check if these are applicable to your traveling situation and, if so, where they are located. You should also check the location of pet relief stations and how far they are from your gate.
2. Check With Your Vet
Flying is a stressful experience for all animals, even if the trip is short and your pet remains with you in the cabin. But having a strong relationship with a good local vet can help. Schedule an appointment with your vet to see if they recommend air travel based on your pet’s health and temperament. Talk honestly with your vet about whether your pet can handle such a high level of stress for an extended period of time. You may also need to obtain vaccination records, a signed health certificate, or other records depending on the travel destination.
Another area of concern is if your pet is on a medication schedule, which can be affected by flight times and time zone changes. Have a plan for how to make sure your pet receives their medication or, if this is not possible, what side effects to prepare for. Additionally, prepare with your vet in advance so that you can handle any gastrointestinal or dehydration issues related to the travel.
3. Consider the Weather
Extreme temperatures can adversely affect your pet while traveling, especially if they are in the cargo area during a flight. If you can’t book your flight during mild weather, strategically time your flights and layovers. During summer, book during early morning, late evenings, or at night to avoid the worst heat. During winter, booking during the midday to avoid the worst of the cold.
There are several airlines that will not allow pets to fly during extreme weather if the pet is in the cargo area. Check with the airline beforehand to understand what counts as extreme weather and what precautions are taken to protect animals while in the air.
Weather is one of the greatest concerns when traveling with snakes or any other temperature-sensitive animal. Consider buying or retro-fitting a travel enclosure to help your pet regularly their temperature. If needed, you can also include a cooling blanket, handheld fan, or heat packets in your carry-on so that you can treat your pet as soon as you land.
4. Pack With Your Pet in Mind
Pack with your pet in mind when preparing to travel. Medications and any prescription food are the most important. You should also consider collapsible/ portable bowls, poop bags, pet wipes, treats, toys, flea and tick medication or heartworm medication.
If your pet is small enough to travel in the cabin, make sure their carrier meets the airline’s size requirements. Ideally, your pet should be able to lay down, sit up, and turn around inside the carrier. Adding a blanket with their scent and a toy or treat to keep them occupied is also helpful.
You should also consider your pet’s comfort after the flight. Are you traveling to a pet-friendly travel destination? Think about how and where your pet will sleep, relieve themselves, exercise, and eat. If needed, pack items such as small beds, potty pads, and toys for mental enrichment if physical exercise is difficult. For convenience, it may be easier simply to purchase items for your pet’s care once you reach your destination.
5. Prep Your Pet for Travel
If your pet is not used to a crate or travel carrier, you will need to practice with them beforehand to develop trust and comfort. Otherwise, forcing your pet into a cramped space will only add pile more stress onto the travelling experience. While this would be unpleasant during the first flight, it would make a return flight even worse. This is one of the greatest barriers to traveling with cats and dogs.
At least one month before travel, begin integrating the travel enclosure into your pet’s environment. Place treats in the crate or carrier and let your pets venture in and out of them freely. Once they are comfortable, you can try closing the door for progressively longer periods of time.
You will also need to acclimate your pet to any travel “clothes,” such as harnesses, muzzles, or even weather gear. For example, booties can be used to protect a dog’s paws against hot or cold pavement. Similarly, grip socks can give dogs traction on slippery airport floors.
