At the very outset of this article, we must be clear that pets are best kept away from air travel – it’s no different for pet dogs. Inspite of our best intentions and preparations, every year pets suffer stress and injuries when traveling by air and commercial airlines accept absolutely no liabilities. If at all you have to transport your pet dog by air, be sure to take all the necessary precautions. This article focuses on dogs but the guidelines are equally applicable to safe air travel for other pet types as well.
Get in touch with the airline well in advance before your travel date. Let them know that you wish to travel with a pet; space for pets is limited and you need to book yours in advance. Keep in mind that a direct flight to your destination makes it easy for your pet. If at all you have to take a connecting flight you should see that both flights allow pets, also check the rates for traveling with pets.
It works best for your pet dog if it can travel with you and not in the cargo hold. Having your pet in-cabin will keep you and your pet dog at ease. Small dog breeds such as dachshunds can be accommodated in-cabin with carry-on kennels. The height restriction on carry-on kennels is 9 to 10 inches and your pet dog must be able to move freely in that space.
Find out in advance about health and vaccination requirements laid down by the airlines; a visit to the vet is in order to ensure that your dog’s vaccination routine is met and all related documents are in order. Are any specifications for the carrier that you can use – hard sided or soft sided?
As mentioned above, direct flights make a big difference to your pet dog’s safety and it will undergo far less stress as compared to taking a connecting flight to your destination. When on-board you should inform the pilot and a flight attendant that you have a pet in the cargo hold. Dog breeds such as pugs, bulldogs, and Pekingese do not travel well in cargo holds – this is true for all dog breeds with pug noses and short nasal passages.
Some airlines may not allow pets in the hold during peak summer months and when it is very cold during the winter.
Ensuring identification is very essential; you should see that the dog collar carries up-to-date information on the pet’s name and address and your telephone number where you can be reached any time.
Try not to feed your pet in the hours leading up to the flight. Water is fine. Avoid traveling during the holiday season or during the times of the year when air traffic is high; your pet dog may have to undergo unnecessary rough handling at the airport.
Once you reach your destination, you should get your pet dog out of the carrier and check if it has suffered any injuries. Take it to a vet if you see any injuries or detect any signs of uneasiness in the animal.
