Flying with your dog: Keep your pup safe on even the longest flight

Going on vacation is all about spending time with your loved ones. And who is more lovable than your dog? While road trips can be fun, some of the best destinations are only accessible by airplane. With news reports of pets getting sick, lost, or even dying on plane trips, the thought of flying with your dog can be intimidating.

So how do you safely and happily get your dog from point A to tropical beach B by plane?

Flying with a dog in cargo

Most airlines offer programs that let you ship your dog in the hold of the plane. Typically airlines restrict dogs in the cabin to smaller dogs, so if you plan to fly with a big dog (really anything over about 20 pounds unless they are a service dog), checking them might be your only option.

Some airlines, like Jet Blue and Alaska Airlines, have special programs to keep your dog comfy and cared for during the flight. Alaska Airlines even gives owners notifications that their pet is onboard, so they can relax during the flight. That said, don’t hesitate to ask someone to check on your dog. Keep the airline staff aware that your dog is on the flight.

Before flying with your pet dog, it might be a wise option to purchase airline-approved carriers. Most airlines are very picky when it comes to passengers flying with their pets, so they have specific conditions and requirements you need to meet in order to take your furry friend with you on holidays. If you need help finding appropriate carriers for your pet dog, we recommend taking a quick look at the product suggestions on SparkysSpots.com.

Flying with a dog in the cabin

Smaller dogs often have the option of riding in the cabin with their owner. Though every airline is different, traditionally dogs are allowed as long as they weigh less than 20 pounds, including the weight of the required carriers.

Carriers or crates must fit in front of the passenger with the dog safely tucked inside the carrier. Before flying with pets, be sure you understand your airline’s requirements so you can make sure your pup is properly prepared for his journey.

The airlines do allow passengers with emotional support animals or service animals, to let the dog to be uncrated and sit on the floor or in the owner’s lap under the Air Carrier Access Act.

Most airlines do require documentation for emotional support or service animals, so be prepared if the airline requests a letter from a physician or psychiatrist.

Flying with your dog: International travel

International flights can be a little trickier. Longer flights can be riskier for animals, especially those prone to anxiety. International flights also must meet regulations from multiple countries, so it’s important to be aware of requirements for your dog at your destination as well as the country of origin.

Virgin Atlantic has many requirements that U.S.-based airlines do not, including pet passports. Other countries have different regulations for how ESAs are handled, so make sure your dog qualifies.

Some countries, like Japan, are bound to animal quarantine regulations. While Japan Airlines allows pets to fly, the airline requires paperwork to show that the owner has met the import/export requirements and will comply with the quarantine. The airline also does not feed or water animals, which is important to remember during long international flights.

Important things to know

• Though most airlines offer climate-controlled areas where animals are kept, it’s still important to avoid flying in extreme temperatures.
• Airlines often have breed restrictions. Most ban snub-nosed dogs for safety issues, but some also will ban dogs from breeds deemed more dangerous, like Rottweilers.
• Crate train your dog in advance. Be sure your dog will be comfortable in a new environment with a lot of loud stuff going on all around.
• Visit a vet first to make sure your dog is healthy and all shots are up to date.
• If you have an anxious pet, look into medicine to keep your doggo calm.
  

  Be prepared

  Flying with your dog creates many of the same complications as traveling with a baby — you’ll need snacks, toys, and anything to clean up after your dog in case of an accident. Trust your knowledge of your dog and plan accordingly for a safe, fun trip.

– By A. Lynne Rush