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Maybe you've decided to take a trip to the other side of the country to visit relatives, or perhaps you've just bought a house in a different state. Road trips are long and you've got a few hundred (or thousand) miles to cover, so you're wondering if flying may be more appropriate. Whether you have a dog or cat, flying can also be stressful for everyone. Don't worry, though: It can be done!
Learn more about what to expect when flying with your pet and prepare for the time leading up to your journey. Then, decide what to take on the flight. Your pet will be happier and calmer when you take the time to think of his or her needs before the big day.
What To Expect When Flying With Your Pet
Every airline has slightly different requirements when flying with a pet. Check your airline's website, or call to speak to whoever handles the animal travel services on your airline, to learn exactly what you should do in your specific situation. Learn more about what you should research before you go, and don't forget to consider your pet's individual needs as well.
Your Airline's Requirements
Your airline may require that all animals ride in the cargo area in a secure, safe crate. Most airlines recommend that your dog or cat be microchipped, have a collar with a license, or have a fully-updated vaccination record before flying. Other airlines are more lenient when it comes to the location of your pet and might allow a small dog or cat to fly in a soft carrier under the seats. You'll also have to consider your pet's temperament, stress level, and needs while flying.
Your Pet's Needs
Perhaps your pet is one of those rare companions who truly doesn't care about noise, lights, or unfamiliar places and just goes along with whatever you want. If you're like most pet owners, though, you understand that most pets are not this chill when it comes to the unpredictability of travel. Consider giving your pet a calming chew, a special toy that he or she can only play with in the crate, or using a blanket from home to line the crate. This will help alleviate anxiety and prepare your pet for a day of air travel.
5 Tips for Flying With Your Pet
We all want our pets to be happy and healthy, but sometimes circumstances cause stress that we have no control over. Flying may be a neutral experience for your pet, or he or she may experience extreme anxiety before a trip. If you've never flown with your pet before, here are a few tips to make the experience easier for both of you.
1. Practice With Your Pet's Travel Carrier
Having the right travel carrier is the first step to ensuring a comfortable trip. Depending on where your pet will be on the plane, you may opt for a hard-sided crate or a soft, purse-like carrier for smaller animals.
If your pet is especially anxious about travel, do a trial run with the carrier a few times before the big day. Put your cat or dog in the carrier and drive around town to familiar places. Return home and give them a meal, a toy, or a treat to celebrate a successful outing.
2. Bring Along a Travel Bowl for Water and Food
If you're embarking on an hours-long journey, your pet will need water and he or she might need a meal or two during the trip. Travel bowls that pop up can be securely stored in your carry-on bag or purse, and some soft crates even have pockets for these items.
3. Plan for Layovers
Layovers can be equally stressful for your pet because they take place in unfamiliar airports. Use your calming chews and stress-relief toys again here. If you know that your pet will be too stressed to relax in a bustling terminal, you might consider asking your vet for a prescription anti-anxiety medication you can give your pet before the trip.
4. Look for a "Pet Relief" Station or Room
Some airports offer pet relief areas where you can let your pet (these places are usually for dogs) out to play, urinate, and stretch his or her legs. Ask the staff to determine whether you should keep your dog on a secure leash or not. If you think your pet would enjoy this, or if you're traveling on a long trip and you know your pet will need to pee, look into these areas before you go. Service dogs are welcome here as well!
5. Arrive as Early as Possible
You may be tempted to wait until the last minute so you don't have to subject your cat or dog to more airport time than necessary, but this may not be best for either of you. Your pet will absolutely pick up on your stress and wonder what is wrong if you are rushing through the terminal while trying to juggle luggage, the carrier, and your carry-on bag. Arrive with enough time to check in calmly, find your gate, offer a treat, and complete any last-minute tasks such as checking an extra bag or locating your digital tickets in your email.
Find Vet-Approved Products and More
No matter where you're going, Baxter Boo has a product for you that will assist you in making your pet's journey less stressful. Browse through our full listing of travel bowls, treats, and blankets today to find the perfect one for your animal companion!
