If you’re planning on airplane travel with your pet this summer (or anytime, really), you know that as fun as it sounds, you’ll need to be pro-active in order to avoid . . .
. . . the (mostly) unavoidable: complications and delays. Getting through airport security is stressful enough with no pet, so best to be well prepared ahead of time for the sake of your sanity and your pet’s well-being.
Here are a few tips and guidelines that have helped me immensely in traveling with my own pets. Always check in with your airline (I always call at least twice to get two confirmations!) to be sure you’ve covered all of your bases.
When Booking Your Flight . . .
- –Direct Flights: For less stress and to assure your pet’s safety, non-stop direct flights to your destination are a must.
- –Travel Dates: Keep in mind airports are much less hectic on weekdays.
- –Weather: If your pet will be traveling in the cargo hold, morning or evening is best in the hotter months so they aren’t affected by the mid-day summer heat. Flying mid-day is best in winter to avoid extremely cold temperatures.
- –Potty Relief Areas: Check with your airline or destination airport to see if they have designated potty relief stations for your pet. There will often be delays and the last thing you’ll want to do is spend an hour looking for a spot for Spot to go potty! (My dog Hazel has flown with Alaska Airlines several times and they have a handy list available here.)
Items to Discuss With Your Airline . . .
- -Number of pets allowed per flight (Airlines will often have a limited amount of pets allowed on each flight, so you’ll want to book good and early if you can. Be sure there is a “seat” for your pet before booking your own.)
- -Any breed restrictions (brachycephalic/snub-nosed dogs are often not allowed in cargo hold)
- -Maximum weight/height of your pet
- -Carrier types allowed and maximum dimensions (for in cabin and/or cargo hold)
- -Any applicable fees
1 Month Prior to Departure . . .
- –Carrier Introduction: Giving your pet at least a month to become familiar with and even love the carrier will help minimize stress for your little loved one when it’s time to head out of town. (TIP: If admissible with your airline include your pet’s favorite toy, blanket, or an article of clothing having your scent for comfort.)
- –Carrier Label: Affix an identifying travel label to the carrier with your name, your final destination contact information, your home address and mobile number, as well as an “in case of emergency” phone number in case you are separated from your pet and can’t be reached.
Within 10 Days of Departure . . .
- –Vet Visit: As required by airlines, ask your vet to issue a health certificate for your pet. This typically needs to be dated within ten days of departure and may be needed throughout your travels.
- –Nail Trim: It’s a good idea to get your pet’s nails trimmed as they could get caught in the carrier’s door and other openings and cause a painful injury.
Day of Departure . . .
- –Food and Water: A full stomach can be uncomfortable for your pet during travel so a meal four (4) hours prior is suggested. Water can be given up until boarding the flight. If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, place dishes in the carrier so a crew member can provide your pet with food and water in the event of a delay.
- –Current Photo: Bring along a current photo of your pet. If they become separated from you, you’ll want to make it easy for others to help you find them.
- –BE EARLY! Allow plenty of time to deal with normal air travel delays as well as your pet’s needs. This will help keep yourself and your pet calm before the flight. Our pets sense our stress and anxiety.
- –Potty Time: Be sure you and your pet visit the Pet Relief area before your pet boards the plane.
- –BREATHE! You’re calm. You’re confident. You’re prepared. You’ve checked off all the boxes on your list. You did it! Now take a deep breath and relax. Time to have fun!
IMPORTANT: If your pet is traveling in the cabin area with you, they are to be placed under the seat in front of you in the carrier. Do not EVER allow a flight crew member or fellow passenger direct you otherwise. Sadly, in recent times, a pet was placed in the overhead bin and lost its life due to lack of oxygen.
And when the four-leggeds must stay behind . . .
Be sure to let your Professional Pet Sitter know your plans as soon as you have them. The summer season and major holidays tend to book up quickly so be sure you are in the books!
The Peaceful Pup is delighted and fully prepared to give your furry loved ones the best quality care in the Ojai Valley while you’re away. Contact us now to set up a Meet and Greet or to schedule us for your next out of town adventure. We’re happy to be here for them when you can’t be.