Small dogs can often fly beneath passenger seats in USDA-approved kennels.
Dogs accompanying owners on airplanes face a number of challenges before even leaving the runway. Dogs have been lost during flights with plane changes, dogs have suffered injuries, and have even died in cargo holds of airplanes. Owners can help protect their dogs by taking several precautions and by helping their dog adapt to airplane travel. Young puppies, pregnant or older dogs should not attempt airplane travel, as the stress could be overwhelming. Begin flight preparations with a dog at least two weeks before flying.
Instructions
1. Contact your airline in advance to inform them of your plans to fly with your dog. You will have an extra fee for the dog. The airline will also give you information as to where the dog can travel, depending upon the breed of the dog. Airlines also require a certification of health from your veterinarian.
2. Contact your veterinarian and schedule an appointment within the time frame the airline requires before the flight. The veterinarian must give the dog flight clearance. Speak to your veterinarian about giving your dog a prescription for travel sickness medication and a prescription for a mild sedative in case of anxiety.
3. Purchase a USDA-approved dog kennel in the appropriate size for your dog. The dog needs enough room to turn around in and be comfortable. Place absorbent padding and comfortable bedding in the bottom of the kennel. Write your name, phone number and address onto the top of the kennel in large, bold letters with a permanent marker. Using the marker, write the destination information on a neon-colored poster board. Tape it securely to the kennel with duct tape.
4. Tape a small dog food bag outside of the kennel with duct tape. Tape a large strip of bubble wrap to the roof of the inside of the kennel in case the kennel gets tossed or dropped.
5. Walk the dog inside of the airport several times before the flight, acclimating it to airplane sounds. Carry the dog in the travel-prepared kennel through the airport to desensitize it to the feel of the jostling kennel and sounds of airplanes taking off and landing. Recreate the kennel and airport experience several times before the flight, making it as realistic as possible for your dog. Speak to your veterinarian about airport desensitization for your particular dog, as individual dogs react differently to the process. Some dog breeds with more anxious personalities may require several weeks of desensitization time, whereas others may only need two.
6. Place a favorite toy and a piece of your clothing into the kennel. Allow your dog to sleep in the kennel for three nights immediately prior to the flight. Reward your dog each time it exits the kennel. Reward it when you remove it from the kennel after it successfully handles the flight, also.
Related posts
Learn the proper protocol involved for flying with a dog.There are many rules to adhere to when traveling by plane, and adding a pet to the mix only makes things more complicated. While the Human...
Short-nosed dogs, like this pug, often have trouble breathing while flying.Regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the International Air Transport Association, air travel with a dog re...
Air Travel for CatsAsk any cat owner who's traveled extensively, and they'll tell you that air travel can be just as stressful on humans as it is on their beloved pets. If your cat has never flown...
Traveling cross-country with your dog needs thorough preparation.Traveling cross-country with your dog can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. According to the ASPCA, traveling with a pet c...
Traveling can be exciting for many people, but can be confusing and stressful for pets. If you plan to travel with your dog or cat, you may opt to fly with American Airlines, which allows you to b...
