Have you ever wanted to travel, see the world, and share that experience with your pet? Tons of pet owners all over the world have these same desires but flying with a pet in the cabin instead of cargo requires a bit of planning and preparation to keep your pet safe and stress free. Of course, you’ll be in close proximity and have the ability to monitor your pet throughout the flight. This guide will take you through a comprehensive checklist to keep your pet safe a comfortable during your flight.
Pre-Flight Preparations
Confirm Airline Policies
Not every airline allows pets in-cabin, so confirming the policies with your chosen airline is the first step. The airlines that do allow pets in the cabin tend to only do so if they meet size and weight requirements, as well as stay in a carrier under the seat in front of you. To do the best job of keeping your pet safe, the carrier needs to be sturdy, well-ventilated, and comply with the airline’s rules. It’s also a good idea to book any flights where you’ll be bringing pets in-cabin well in advance, since some airlines have limits on how many animals are allowed per flight.
Health Check-Up
Take your pet to their vet to make sure they’re healthy enough to fly. Certain breeds of dogs, like snub-nosed dogs, might find it difficult to breathe in airplane cabin conditions. Your vet can also give your pet any vaccinations, health certificates, or other documents they may need. Certain health-related documents may be required by the airline or destination country.
Carrier Training
Your pet should be familiar with their carrier and see it as a safe, secure place well before boarding the flight. Introduce it to them little by little in the weeks and months leading up to your flight. You can drive this association by using treats and positive reinforcement so your pet finds safety and comfort in the carrier. Carrier training like this can be a serious help in minimizing your pet’s anxiety levels during the flight.
Packing Essentials
The Right Carrier
The carrier you choose should have enough room for your pet to turn around, sit, and lie down comfortably. Your pet deserves to be safe and comfortable, so it also needs to be sturdy, have a leak-proof bottom and ample ventilation. Familiar blankets or toys inside will also soothe your pet and make them more comfortable with the carrier.
Food and Water
You know your pet’s feeding schedule best, so you should pack enough food for the trip, but don’t feed your pet right before the flight. Doing so can cause motion sickness, upset stomachs, and bathroom accidents, which you really don’t want to experience in an airplane cabin. You should also bring a portable water bottle and a collapsible bowl to give your pet water, but you don’t want to give them too much for the same reason: preventing accidents. If there are any layovers involved, those are great opportunities to give your pet water.
Pet Relief Materials
When you’re traveling with pets in any format, you want to bring things like pee pads and waste bags for obvious reasons. Most airports these days have designated relief stations where your pet can stretch and go to the bathroom before getting on the flight.
Day of the Flight
Exercise Before the Trip
Take your pet for some serious exercise, like a long walk or play session, before heading to the airport. Getting their energy out like this helps reduce anxiety and makes them more likely to rest during the flight.
Arrive Early at the Airport
The classic recommendation of getting to the airport at least two hours before your flight becomes more important when you’re with pets. You’ll need some extra time to check in, get through security, and any extra checks that may be required. You’ll probably be asked to remove your pet from the carrier at security, so be prepared for that and keep them on a tight leash or harness for everyone’s safety.
Manage Anxiety
Your pet’s carrier will be close to you during the flight, so it’ll be easy to calm them down. Reaching down to comfort them once in a while can help ease their stress. Depending on the airline, you might be allowed to put the carrier on your lap during the flight, but you should check with the flight attendants on this.
In-Flight Tips
Keep Your Pet Secure
During the flight, your pet needs to stay in the carrier. You don’t want them running around the cabin, which can be dangerous for everyone, but, if the airline allows, you might be able to open the carrier briefly during the flight. This is another thing that you should ask the flight attendants for permission on.
Monitor Your Pet’s Comfort
Keep an eye on your pet’s behavior during the flight, as well. This is why airlines have you keep the carrier nearby, so you can calm them with soft words or gentle petting through the carrier if they seem stressed out. Don’t give them sedatives without your veterinarian’s permission, since they can have adverse effects at high altitudes.
Post-Flight Considerations
After Landing
After landing at your destination, go straight to a pet relief area for reasons that should be obvious. Also, for your pet to stretch their legs. You also want to give them water as soon as possible, especially after a long flight.
Gradual Acclimatization
Places they’ve never been before have tons of unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells that can be overwhelming for your pet. Give them time to adjust little by little by getting back to their regular routine. Returning to their regular food, water, and rest schedules as soon as possible makes them much more comfortable with their new environment.
Flying with Pets in the Cabin
The proper planning and preparation can make flying with your pet in-cabin a breeze. The steps in this guide help you make sure you and your pet can have a comfortable and safe journey. Regardless of your pet-friendly vacation destination, you’ll have covered all the essentials for an enjoyable and worry-free travel experience.
