Guide to take your pets while you are travelling in Flights (Airplanes)
Travelling with pets while you are flying
With the increasing number of pet owners who wish to travel with their pets, every airline has put an airline’s pet policy. Some countries do not allow pets to arrive in-cabin while few airlines allow them to be seated underneath the seat in front of you. Most airlines allow dog and cats in their pet policy.Every airline requires that your pet has a certificate of good health.Most American Airlines allow small dogs and cats over 8 weeks of age but no in-cabin pets on transatlantic flights or flights longer than 12 hours. Singapore Airlines requires a certificate of good health but does not allow them in-cabin. In UK, the pets need a valid passport under the Pet Travel Scheme in order to enter or return to the UK. Other than certain service animals, pets are not permitted in the cabin of Emirates flights. You need to book the pet as excess baggage and transport it in an approved cargo crate.
Here are a few tips on travelling with your pet in-cabin with you:
1. Make sure your pet is the right size
If your pet is less than 11 inches tall or 15 pounds in weight, you will be able to fly with your pet in the cabin of the airplane. If the dog or cat is taller or heavier than the mandated size of the airline-approved pet carrier, then the only option left is to let your pet travel in the cargo hold.
2. Pay Extra Fees
Every airline charges extra fees for carrying pets.Air Canada surcharges close to $100 plus taxes each way, depending on destination. Delta allows household birds too and charges $125 in North America and $200 international for carrying pets.
3. Make sure that your dog has the Right Temperament to Fly
Dogs with high anxiety level and fearful ones should not be made to fly. Being the owner, you are in the best position to assess your dog’s mood and behavior before booking your flight. In fact airlines mention well-trained and quiet dogs in their policies.
4. Book Early and Fly Direct
Most airlines only allow one or two dogs on each flight, so it is important to call the airline’s customer care and get approval for your plan before you book your pet’s ticket. If your pet will be traveling in-cabin, try to get a non-stop, direct flight.
5. Pack all your Dog’s Necessities
You need to keep all the food, favorite toys and treats for your pet handy, like a bone for the dog to keep him busy during a long flight. If your pet is travelling for the first time, you are better off carrying medicines to take care of travel anxiety. You can speak with your veterinarian about how to take care of your pet if it suffers from motion sickness and when to the use of anti-anxiety medication.
6. Look for Pet Relief Stations
Airports generally have space for dogs to use the bathroom. Get familiar with the locations of pet relief stations in the airport and make sure that your pup has the chance to go pee before hopping on the next plane.
6. Get Up-to-date on Vaccines
Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on what shots your pet needs before travelling. You should also check your destination’s regulations on vaccines to ensure your pet is in compliance. While sedation is generally not advised, some dogs may require one in order to combat motion sickness. However, it is always advisable to keep Health certificate, medical records, contact details of your regular veterinarian with you, while travelling.