1. Book Early
Most airlines only allow one or two dogs on each flight, so it is important to book your dog's ticket as soon as possible. Do not buy your ticket until you call the airline and make sure there is a seat available for your dog on the flight. Once the agent has confirmed availability, reserve both your seats on the same ticket while you are still on the phone with the agent.
2. Fly Direct
Book a non-stop direct flight whenever possible and try to fly on a weekday when airports are typically less hectic. If your pet will be traveling in the cargo hold, it is best to fly in the morning or evening during the summer and midday during the winter to avoid extremely hot or cold temperatures.
3. Visit The Veterinarian
Make an appointment with your pet's veterinarian for a check up and make sure all vaccinations are up to date. Obtain a health certificate from your veterinarian dated within 10 days of departure. For travel outside the continental United States, additional planning and health care requirements may be necessary. Visit your International Pet Travel or contact the foreign office of the country you are traveling to for more information.
4. Buy A Carrier
Whether your dog is a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, there is a pet carrier to match. Carriers are available in both hard sided and soft sided. Soft sided carriers are more suitable for carry on and tend to fit better under the seat, but they are only permitted in the cabin only. To make sure the carrier will fit under the seat on your flight check the size restrictions of the airline in the Airline Pet Policy Section. If your dog will be traveling in the cargo hold purchase a hard plastic carrier with holes for ventilation instead. Carriers must be big enough for your dog to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. If the carrier does not permit the dog to do this, the airline will refuse transport.
5. Can I See Some ID
After you have purchased an appropriate carrier, write your dog's name on it and include identification tags with your home address and phone number as well as the address and phone number of someone who can be reached at your destination. Carry a current photograph of your pet as well. If your dog gets lost during the trip, a photograph will make it much easier for airline employees or the local authorities to search effectively. You might also want to consider a permanent form of id (such as a microchip or tattoo) that will increase the likelihood of reuniting with your dog if the dog gets lost on the trip.
6. Take A Test Drive
Animals travel under less stress when they are accustomed to their carrier before they travel. In the weeks prior to your trip, put your dog in the carrier as often as possible for trips around town.
7. Eat, Drink, Poop, Play
Since a full stomach might be uncomfortable for your dog during travel. Try feeding your dog about four hours before the flight, if possible. While its best to refrain from feeding your dog right before the flight, you can continue to give your dog water right up to the time of travel. Just be sure to empty the dish before checking in so it does not spill during the flight. if you are checking the dog, leave the dishes in the carrier so an airline employee can provide your pet with food and water in the event of an extended delay before or after your flight. You should also exercise your dog and let your pet use the facilities (i e grass) before heading to the airport.
8. Arrive Early
Arrive at the airport early, but not too early and have your dog's health certificate handy. You will not be allowed to check your pet in more than four hours before the flight. Most airlines recommend arriving two hours before your flight when traveling with a pet. Passengers with pets must check in at the counter, curbside and self service check in are not allowed.
9. Do not Take A Valium
Do not give your pet tranquilizers just because you are nervous. Dogs should not be given sedatives or tranquilizers prior to flying, because they can create respiratory and cardiovascular problems as the dog is exposed to increased altitude pressures. They can also alter the animal's natural ability to balance and maintain equilibrium which can be dangerous when the carrier is moved. While sedation is generally no advised, the decision on whether or not to prescribe a tranquilizer for your pet should be made by your veterinarian. If he or she decides that tranquilizers are medically necessary for the trip, indicate the name of the drug taken and the dosage on the dog's carrier.
10 You Have Arrived!
When you arrive at your destination go for a long walk before you check in at the hotel. Your dog will feel more comfortable as soon as he or she sees and smells their surroundings and realizes that the same rules and boundaries apply here too. By the time you check into the hotel, your dog will already feel right at home and be ready for whatever adventures are in store for that week.
Packing List
Do not forget these items when packing your dog's suitcase:
Health certificate and medical records.
Contact information for your regular veterinarian and an emergency contact at your destination.
Comb, brush and flea control products
Any special medication your dog might need.
Spare collar with id tag.
Pet wipes or grooming products.
Paper towels and stain remover.
Enough dog food and treats for the entire trip.
Plenty of bottled water ( a sudden change can upset your dog's stomach).
Food and water dishes.
Leash and poop bags.
Your dog's favorite toy and blanket.
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