A Guide To Flying With Your Pet

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A GUIDE TO FLYING WITH YOUR PET

INTRODUCTION

Travelling to different places always brings a thrill and a sense of excitement, especially if you are going to a place you have never been to. New sights to see, places to visit, people to meet – there are a lot of things to look forward to. The only thing that could make this experience even better would be taking your pet with you when exploring all these new areas. 

Travelling with a pet brings its own blend of excitement and challenges. The key to doing this smoothly is to plan. However, there are many factors you will need to keep in mind when it comes to this so we are here to help you with it! From choosing a pet-friendly airline to ensuring that your pet will be comfortable once on the flight to what you need to bring to ensure that the trip goes smoothly, we will discuss all of that in this guide. 

CHOOSE PET-FRIENDLY AIRLINES

The first and most important step in planning a vacation with your pet is to choose the correct airline. Here are some things to consider when choosing:

  • Research pet-friendly policies

Take the time to read through the pet policies of different airlines. Not all of them will act in the best interests of your pet. Consider factors like cabin versus cargo options, fees, and overall reputation. 

  • Consider direct flights so you can minimise the time spent in the air 

Opting for a direct flight will significantly reduce the stress and travel time for your pet. This in turn will not only help reduce the anxiety your pet may feel but it will also serve as a more comfortable and stable experience for them. 

  • Check the airline regulations to see if your pet will qualify

Airlines will often have specific guidelines regarding the size, breed, and types of carriers allowed for pet travel. Make sure that your pet qualifies for all of them. 

CONSULT YOUR VET

The next thing you will need to do is visit your vet. Here is why:

  • Make sure your pet is fit for travel 

Schedule a thorough pre-travel checkup to ensure that your pet is physically prepared for the journey. This will also reduce the probability of any health-related risk.

  • Get the necessary vaccinations and health certificates 

Make sure that the specific vaccinations and health certificate requirements set by both the airline and the destination are correct and have been met. This will make for a smooth check-in process. 

  • Discuss sedation options in case your pet gets anxious

In case your pet is prone to anxiety, it would be good to have some sedation options available. It will keep your pet calm and comfortable throughout the journey.

INVEST IN A GOOD PET CARRIER 

Of course, travelling with a pet would not be possible if you didn’t have an appropriate pet carrier. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing the right carrier:

  • Choose an airline-approved pet carrier that has proper ventilation and is the right size 

Ensure that the carrier you choose is compliant with airline regulations. It should be big and comfortable enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down easily. 

  • Make sure your pet is used to the carrier before the journey

Familiarize your pet with the carrier gradually in the days leading up to the journey. This will help alleviate anxiety and will also make sure that your pet will see the carrier as a safe space. 

  • Label the carrier with your contact information and attach a recent photo of your pet. 

Make sure that your carrier is extra secure by pasting your contact information. This will keep you prepared in the unlikely event that you are separated from your pet. 

PLAN FOR COMFORT AND FAMILIARITY

Travelling for such a long time will be quite stressful for your pet. These are some things you can do to make sure that your pet is as comfortable as they can be on this journey:

  • Pack familiar items like their favourite toy, blanket, or bedding. The airport and air travel are unfamiliar things so this will comfort them. 
  • Bring enough food, treats, and a portable water bowl. Keeping them fed and giving them frequent treats will help them behave properly. 
  • Consider using pheromone sprays or calming products to help reduce anxiety.

CHECK WITH AIRPORT AND DESTINATION REGULATIONS

The next thing you will need to do is to research the airport and the destination regulations for pets. This will help you be prepared for any checks that will happen and will also keep you informed of what needs to be done before boarding. Here are some things to keep in mind for this:

  • Take a look at the pet entry and pet quarantine regulations. 
  • Check if there are specific pet relief areas or facilities at the airport.
  • Take a look at the local pet-friendly accommodations and services at the destination. In case you need to quarantine them or board them, it would be good to have it arranged beforehand. 

EXERCISE BEFORE THE FLIGHT

Having an over-active pet in the airport sounds like a good way to make the trip a lot more exhausting for you. Here are some ways to make their energy levels more manageable:

  • Make sure to exercise them before hedging into the airport
  • Allow your pet to release extra energy from the stress during the journey as well 
  • Take your pet for a bathroom break before checking them in

CONCLUSION

Hopefully, this guide helped you prepare for your flight with your pet. As mentioned previously, the key to a smooth journey is to keep calm through the whole process. It is important to be prepared for any eventuality while also being prepared for anything that goes wrong. In case you want to know more about pet travel, head on over to our website!