Travelling with your dog by plane is not one of the most common experiences you will share with them in your life, but it is not unusual either to have to deal with problems on some occasion. So we advise you to take it seriously enough, since it is in your interest to minimise the disruption it may cause both of you.
Below we give you some recommendations so that air travel does not pose a major inconvenience for either the pet or the owner. Read on.
Prepare the trip thoroughly
If your pet is going to travel on a plane, you have a great responsibility to spare them unnecessary suffering. In fact, if you can save them the trip, it is not a bad idea for them to stay at home. However, there are times when it is unavoidable for them to come with you. Bear in mind that for some people getting on a plane is already a stressful experience, so imagine how it can be for an animal.
Therefore, it is up to you to find out about the conditions in which your furry little friend’s flight will take place. In this respect, you should dedicate time to contacting the airline and noting their rules about permits for transporting pets.
Some essential tips
It is a good idea to take note of them.
Keep vaccinations up to date
Check which regulations apply to pets in the destination country. And do not forget to ask your vet about the vaccines that are advisable in that place.
Prepare them for what is coming
Let them get used to the carriers with a transition period. If you keep them by your feet you can calm them with your voice, check whether they show any problem or give them a treat.
Take care of your dog during the trip
If your dog is still a puppy or belongs to the brachycephalic breeds (with particular breathing problems), it is not advisable for them to travel by plane. On some flights, dogs are allowed to travel in the cabin; it is always more comfortable for them and gives you greater safety.
You are not a pharmacist
Remember that you must never give them sedatives for their nervousness. They will not let them breathe normally, since that panting is also their mechanism for balancing body temperature.
The hold is not business class
If there is no other option but to transport dogs in the plane’s hold, which is poorly air-conditioned and ventilated, let us try to make them travel during the times of year with more pleasant temperatures, or at night.
The fewer comings and goings, the better
Avoiding layovers also saves problems for the animals’ health and those related to misunderstandings and the services contracted with the pet transport, since it does not hurt to confirm that they remember them.
Travel with them only if absolutely necessary
Remember, you can travel with your dog by plane, but you must take the necessary precautions so that this journey does not become a traumatic experience. For both them and you!
