What You Need to Know About Inflight Dogs
Every year over 500,000 dogs and cats hop on commercial airlines, according to The Air Transport Association of America. Gone are the days when pets are banned from an aircraft’s cargo area. Nowadays some airlines even allow pet owners to have their small pets with them in the cabin. But there are strict rules that govern this privilege.
For starters, to receive cabin travel privilege, your dog must be able to fit in a crate small enough to be safely tucked into the space below the passenger seat. The accepted dog travel crate dimensions are 8” x 17” x 12”, but it is best that you first contact your airline if in any case they have specific regulations. While some airlines allow dog crates with soft-sides, others permit only hard crates. If your pet carrier does not pass the airline’s stipulated guidelines on pet travel, your dog might not be able to board the plane with you. This said it is crucial to speak with your airline representative first before buying a dog carrier.
Generally, airlines charge an additional fee to account for animal carriers. Some count them as part of a passenger’s carry-on-luggage. Some airlines also require an advanced reservation for traveling pets because they restrict one small pet per cabin per flight. Lastly, a health certificate issued within 10 days prior to travel date can also be required, alongside vaccination and anti-rabies certificates.
Now if you have figured out your airline’s specific regulations with regards to dog carriers, your next concern has to be this: will your dog behave in his crate throughout the flight or will he be an inflight nuisance?
The key to preparing your dog for air travel, in a crate no less, is to train them to get used to staying in a carrier or a crate at home. One way to condition your dog to get comfortable with staying in this enclosure is by leaving a well-stuffed crate (complete with a comfy blanket and cushion and your dog’s favorite toy) open and allowing your dog to laze in it of their own volition. The more often they stay there, the better they will get used to the idea. As for the actual traveling itself, invite your dog into your car for short excursions in the neighborhood. This will introduce the concept of “moving” and “traveling” to them.
Come date of departure, make sure to feed your dog 4 hours before flight with a very light portion of food. Take them out for their regular poo and pee time. Make sure you have everything you need accounted for. Do not forget to bring a reliable dog leash and collar. Drive to the airport early, early enough to allow for any contingencies that might happen.
In case your dog gets agitated at the airport, considering all the noise and the strange crowd, the prospect of tranquilizing them might prove necessary. In this case, follow the recommendations of your veterinarian.
