Nine Tips for Flying with Your Dog

The process is different for small dogs than it is for larger ones, but the first tip applies to both. All dogs flying by commercial airline will be required to have a heath certificate completed by your veterinarian within 10 days of the flight. This is mandatory for all dogs whether they ride with you or in the cargo hold.

If you have a small do the process is fairly simple. Most airlines will allow you to travel with your small dog if he is in a proper carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. They require the crate to allow room for your pet to stand up and turn around while inside. If your dog and his carrier fit this description then you will most likely be subjected to a fee between $50 and $75. You should also call the airline to find out the exact dimensions of the seats in the plane you will fly on to make sure that the crate fits when you arrive on the date of travel. Most airlines require you to call to check in 3 days before the flight to ensure there will be room. If you are traveling with a larger dog the process is more complicated.

Larger dogs must ride in the cargo hold and are subjected to shifting luggage, uncomfortable surroundings, loud noises and changes in air pressure. This can be extremely stressful for your dog and you should discuss the option of tranquilizers with your vet. If possible you should test the tranquilizer dose at some point before the trip to see how your pet responds. If he responds well then you should consider tranquilizing him for the trip. You should also consider filling the bottom of the crate with shredded newspaper. Even potty-trained dogs can have accidents in this type of environment and the newspaper will help to absorb any unintentional leaks.

You are responsible for securing the proper crate and transporting it to check in. All kennels should be plastic hard-side kennels with wire doors. Varikennels are the most popular choice among people who travel by air with their dogs. Some airlines require a lock on the crate, while others do not.

Always make sure you clearly label the crate with live animal stickers, your address, phone number and destination city and stickers indicating which end is up. Kennels should also be equipped with food or water bowls that clip to the door and are not loose in the kennel. You are responsible for food and water for your dog. If you freeze the water beforehand then it will not spill during the boarding process and provide lasting hydration for your best friend.

Airlines can charge anywhere between $150 and $350 to transport your dog in the cargo hold and there are restrictions on what days your pet is permitted to fly. Generally speaking airlines will not transport live animals between May 15^th and September 15^th because temperatures reach unsafe levels within the cargo hold. You should check the weather before you fly because the airline will not board your dog if the temperature is over 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

This is an important safety precaution because dogs are prone to heat strokes when confined in non-ventilated areas at these temperatures. If you must fly during the summer, book an overnight flight when temperatures are much lower. There are also space limitations for live cargo so you should always make plans in advance by calling the airline to find out what the requirements are for your pooches travel day.

Preparation is key when flying with your pooch. Some airlines have additional fees, breed and size limitations or other policies that could affect your travel plans. Always call ahead to get a clear explanation of the policies in place and follow the directions to the letter. Do not assume that you will be accommodated upon arrival if you did not follow the directions. Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 airlines have tightened restrictions on all travelers and four legged ones are no exception.

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