What To Do When Flying With Your Dog

Sooner or later, everyone discovers they've got to make an airplane trip they didn't know about. Although it's an easy scheduling process if you're on your own, it's not so easy if you have to bring Muffin, your dog, with you. You will need to ensure that you have your proper paper work in hand and prepare ahead of time so your dog will be as comfortable as they can during the flight, and you aren't stuck “holding the bag” when your pet isn't allowed to fly.

As For Getting the Paperwork in Order

First, you should make sure that you get a health certificate from
your dog's usual vet. You should see that it meets all the needs of your destination, as the requirements may change from destination to destination. You should also be sure to check on the time, which you must get it; normally it should be ten days before the flight. Keep a copy of your dog's current vaccinations with you incase questions arise. You should also thoroughly review the airline's rules and procedures about pet travel. You not only want to ensure that there are no problems with the paperwork and identification; you want to make sure that you don't have to leave your dog behind.

Preparing your dog for the flight

Beginning at least a few weeks before the flight you should start crate-training your dog if he isn't already used to the crate. Even though dogs may miss their orthopedic dog beds, you should gradually build up to having your dog spend a few hours a day in the crate. Make sure you have comfortable padding, food, and water. Make sure you feed him while he's in the crate so he'll associate it with a positive experience.

You may also wan to expose your dog to the hustle and bustle that will be in an airport, especially if your dog isn't used to noise. You could consider doing a test run at a local airport to see if he is cooperative.

Keeping Your Dog Comfortable During the Flight

Any pet owner knows that the most basic rule of pet ownership is to ensure your pet is happy and safe. The same rule applies to flying.

You should:

1. Make sure you don't travel in extremely hot weather. If you're
forced to travel in the summer, you should consider a late night or early morning red eye flight. You should try and book a nonstop flight to reduce flight time.

2. Make sure you travel on the same flight as your dog; this is
essential in case of delay. Make sure you bring extra food and water, and a leash, in case you get stuck at the airport for an extended delay, or if you must stay over at a hotel.

3. You should ensure that he has plenty of food and water during the flight, but be sure that the dishes can be refilled without opening the crate-the last thing you want is Doggy escaping when you feed him. One possible way to make sure the water won't spill is to freeze it in the dish before you leave for the airport. This will reduce the chance that the water accidentally spills during transport.

4. Make sure it's safe to use sedative medications, and only use them if your vet recommends them. As these might interfere with your dog's ability to maintain the same body temperature, you'll want to be careful. You should also avoid dog clothes during the flight, since it can be hot in the cargo hold.

5. Avoid flying with breeds that are prone to respiratory troubles.

6. Before flying, make sure your crate meets safety requirements and that it latches security. Do not put a lock on the crate! It's essential that airline employees are able to get out your dog in case of an emergency or if it is otherwise necessary.  Plus, if you add a few of your dog's favorite plush dog toys, they may be more relaxed.

When you plan carefully, you will be able to ensure the best flight possible for both you and your dog. Be sure to prepare him ahead of time. Reconsider flying with your dog if his health or temper makes it ill advisable for him to fly.