Flying with puppies can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your furry friend.
Here are some important things to consider when flying with puppies:
Choose The Right Airline
Not all airlines allow puppies on their flights, and even those that do may have different policies and requirements. It’s important to do your research and choose an airline that is puppy-friendly and meets your needs.
Some things to consider when selecting an airline include:
Size and breed restrictions
Some airlines have size and breed restrictions for puppies, so it’s important to check if your puppy is allowed on the plane.
Age Restrictions
Most airlines have age restrictions for puppies, requiring them to be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned before they can fly.
Health requirements
Some airlines may require puppies to have certain vaccinations or health certificates before they can fly.
Book The Right Ticket
There are a few different options for flying with puppies, and it’s important to choose the right one for your situation. Here are some common options:
In-cabin
If your puppy is small enough, you may be able to bring them in the cabin with you. This is generally the most convenient and stress-free option for both you and your puppy, but it’s important to check the size and weight restrictions of the airline you’re flying with.
Checked Baggage
If your puppy is too big to fly in the cabin, you may need to check them as baggage. This is generally the least expensive option, but it can be more stressful for your puppy as they will be in a separate part of the plane.
Cargo
If you have a larger puppy or are flying on a small airplane that doesn’t allow any pets in the cabin or as checked baggage, you may need to send your puppy as cargo. This can be more expensive and stressful for your puppy, as they will be in a separate area of the airport and may be exposed to more noise and temperature fluctuations.
Plan Your Travel
Flying with puppies requires a bit of extra planning and coordination. Here are some things to consider when planning your travel:
Timing
Try to book your flight during a time when your puppy is typically more relaxed, such as after a meal or after a walk. You may also want to avoid peak travel times or long layovers to minimize stress for your puppy.
Connections
If you have a layover or need to make a connecting flight, make sure to plan enough time to get your puppy to their next flight. It’s also a good idea to check the policies of the connecting airline to make sure they allow puppies.
Airport
Familiarize yourself with the airport you’ll be flying from and the procedures for flying with puppies. This includes knowing where to check in, where to go through security, and where to find your gate.
Prepare your puppy
Before you leave for the airport, there are a few things you can do to prepare your puppy for the flight:
Familiarize Them With Their Crate
If your puppy will be flying in a crate, make sure they are comfortable and familiar with it before the flight. You can do this by letting them play in it and sleep in it at home.
Get Them Used to New Environments
If your puppy is not used to being in new environments or around lots of people, it may be helpful to expose them to these experiences before the flight. This can help them feel more comfortable and less anxious during the journey.
Exercise and Feed Them
Make sure your puppy is well exercised and fed before the flight to help them relax and sleep during the journey.
Make Sure They Are Comfortable
Bring along your puppy’s favorite toys, blankets, and other comfort items to help them feel more at home during the flight.
Get Them Microchipped
If your puppy is not already microchipped, consider getting them microchipped before the flight. This can help with identification if your puppy gets lost during the journey.
Pack the right items
There are a few essential items you’ll need to bring with you when flying with puppies. These include:
Crate
If your puppy will be flying in a crate, make sure it is the right size and meets the requirements of the airline you’re flying with.
Leash and collar
Bring a sturdy leash and collar for your puppy to wear while in the airport and on the plane.
Water and Food
Bring plenty of water and food for your puppy, as well as a bowl for them to drink and eat from.
Waste Bags
Make sure to bring plenty of waste bags to clean up after your puppy while in the airport and on the plane.
Medications and Documents
If your puppy is on any medications, bring a sufficient supply with you. You should also bring copies of their vaccination records and any other relevant documents, such as a health certificate if required by the airline.
At the airport
Once you arrive at the airport, there are a few things you’ll need to do to ensure a smooth journey for your puppy:
Check in
Head to the check-in counter to check in and drop off your puppy’s crate. Make sure to have all of your documents, including your puppy’s vaccination records, ready to show the agent.
Go Through Security
Follow the usual security procedures, but make sure to keep your puppy on a leash at all times. If you’re flying with a crate, you may need to remove your puppy from the crate and carry them through the metal detector.
On The Plane
Once you’re on the plane, there are a few things you can do to help your puppy feel more comfortable:
Keep Them in Their Crate
If your puppy is flying in a crate, make sure to keep them in it while on the plane. This will help them feel more secure and prevent them from getting underfoot or disturbing other passengers.
Provide Comfort Items
Bring along your puppy’s favorite toys and blankets to help them feel more at home during the flight.
Keep Them Hydrated
Make sure to offer your puppy water frequently during the flight to keep them hydrated.
Keep an Eye on Them
Pay attention to your puppy and make sure they are behaving normally. If you notice any unusual behavior, such as excessive panting or lethargy, contact the flight crew for assistance.
Arriving at Your Destination
When you arrive at your destination, there are a few things you’ll need to do to ensure a smooth transition for your puppy:
Collect Your Puppy’s Crate
Make sure to pick up your puppy’s crate as soon as it becomes available to ensure they are not left alone in an unfamiliar place.
Take Them Outside
Once you have your puppy and their crate, take them outside to a designated area for them to relieve themselves. This will help them feel more comfortable and allow them to acclimate to their new surroundings.
Provide Them With Food and Water
Make sure to offer your puppy food and water as soon as you arrive at your destination. This will help them adjust to their new environment and keep them hydrated after the flight.
Follow Local Laws and Regulations
Be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding puppies, such as leash laws or vaccination requirements. Make sure to follow these regulations to avoid any issues during your stay.
In conclusion, flying with puppies can be a stressful experience, but with proper planning and preparation, it doesn’t have to be. By choosing the right airline, booking the right ticket, planning your travel, preparing your puppy, packing the right items, and following the necessary procedures at the airport and on the plane, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your furry friend.
