Everything You Need to Know Before Flying with Your Pet

Traveling with your pet can be a challenging experience, especially if you plan on hitting the skies. Plenty of people fly with their furry friends, so you know it’s not impossible, but it undoubtedly requires a bit more planning and preparation than traveling by car. There are specific safety measures that you need to take to ensure that your pet stays comfortable and secure during the flight, but if you follow these simple steps, traveling via plane with your pet can be a fun and successful experience that both of you can enjoy. In this blog post, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about flying with your pet.

Prepping For the Trip

Before your trip, it’s important that you help your pet prepare for the journey, especially if they’ve never traveled before. This will make the trip more comfortable for them and help alleviate stress. You should also take your pet to SweetWater Veterinary Hospital for a check-up to ensure that they are in good health and their vaccinations are up to date. A comprehensive physical examination may reveal cases of underlying health conditions that can exacerbate stress during the flight. They can also prescribe anti-anxiety medication if your pet is likely to be nervous or agitated while airborne.

Choose the Right Carrier

First off, you'll need to find the right carrier. It is crucial to invest in a sturdy carrier that is not only comfortable for your pet but also meets the airline's requirements. The carrier must also be spacious enough to allow your pet to move in and adjust itself while being airborne. It would be best to check your airline's pet travel policy and dimension requirements before making your purchase.

Booking a Pet-Friendly Flight

Not every airline allows pets, so you’ll need to do your research and book a pet-friendly flight. Different airlines have different policies and fees that you’ll need to be aware of. Call different airlines and ask about their policies and what you need to do in order to fly with your pet.

Organizing Your Documents

Before you can fly, you need to have all of your pet's paperwork in order. Contact your vet and get all the necessary documents that you will need to provide to your airline. These might include health certificates or proof of vaccination, depending on your destination.

Packing Pet Essentials

When you travel with your pet, you'll need to pack more than just your own luggage. Make sure to bring along your pet's essentials like food, bowls, medication, toys, leash, and anything else they might need. Pack them all in one place, preferably in a bag or crate, so they are easily accessible.

Boarding the Plane

When you’re about to board the plane, confirm that your pet is wearing a comfortable and secure harness. Make sure that your pet is settled and comfortable before takeoff. If they are sharing a seat with you, you should hold your pet on your lap or place them under the seat in front of you during takeoff and landing. If you’re stressed, remember to breathe and relax. Your pet will sense your calmness as well.

You’re Ready To Fly!

Flying with your pet can be a fantastic experience, but it’s important to make sure that you’re prepared in order for both of you to have a safe and fun flight. We hope the tips we shared in this blog post help you get ready for your upcoming trip with your furry friend! We wish you and your pet a very safe and enjoyable trip!

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