Dog Airline Travel Tips

Make sure you understand dog airline travel rules and regulations before you make any travel arrangements for you and your pet.

From Cargo to First Class – New Pet Airline

Pet Airways is a new airline just for pets. Pets can now fly in a cool, safe, comfortable cabin instead of the cargo area. This is a wonderful new option for pet owners who have been concerned about the safety and comfort of their pets. Right now the destinations are somewhat limited, but this will change based on demand.

More Conventional Dog Airline Travel

If you don’t like the idea of your dog traveling without you, or if this new airline doesn’t fly to your destination yet, make sure you check with the specific airline you are traveling on for their pet traveling rules and regulations.

General Dog Airline Travel Tips:

• There’s no such thing as a certified travel container, so make sure you get a carrier that is made of secure metal doors, has strong lock mechanisms, does NOT have wheels

• Per the USDA: There are no pet transport kennels that are pre-approved by any Airline, or IATA, or IPATA, or USDA even if stated on the labels. Please ensure that you purchase the strongest and most secure kennel you can find regardless of misleading labeling.

• Sedation is not recommended for air travel and can actually be dangerous to your pet.

• Dogs are very sensitive to temperature so many airlines will not permit your dog to travel in extremely hot weather. This is also the case in extreme cold weather, so take the weather into consideration when planning a trip.

• Curbside check-in is not an option so allow extra time when traveling with your pets.

• If you don’t have a crate, some airlines will rent or sell you one.

• Try to stay with one airline if you must have a connecting flight.

• If your dog is prone to motion sickness or gets unusually anxious check with your Vet for remedies.

• Make sure you take the documents and supplies your dog will need such as:

  -Leash
  -Bowl and water
  -Food / Treats for when you’ve reached your destination
  -Travel beds
  -Travel Carriers or Crates
  -Pet ID Tag and photo of your pet
  -First Aid Kit
  -Favorite toy
  -Current medications, if any
  -Required documents (health certificate, pet passport, etc.)
  

NOTE: Your dog should probably not travel by air if he is:

• Very old
• Not in good health
• Nervous / anxious
• Pug-nose breeds with breathing issues (Shih Tzus, Boxers, Pugs, etc)

When in doubt, have your pet checked by a Vet before the trip.

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