Travel Advice for Flying with Pets

Pets are an important part of our daily lives, and can sometimes be a part of our travel too. When leaving your pets behind is not an option, you can still travel by taking them along for the ride. Maybe you're moving across the country, or would simply like to bring your companion with you on vacation. Whatever the reasons for keeping your pets close-by on your travels, here are some tips to get you prepared for their journey.

Flying with a pet inside the continental U.S. usually costs a surcharge of around $50, depending on the airline. Most airplanes have limited space for live animals, so you will have to check your reservation three days before the flight, and on the day of departure to confirm. Most airlines have a standard operating practice for transporting pets, but make sure there are no special restrictions for your flight by contacting them in advance.

Airlines will usually require a signed certificate of health from a veterinarian issued within 10 days of the flight, stating that your pet is healthy and fit for travel. While at the check-up, you can ask about sedatives for your pet. It is normal to sedate animals for travel to avoid the extra stress involved. Much like us humans, a lot of pets get extremely nervous on flights too. Veterinarians recommend that you give the sedative a "trial run" a few days before traveling to ensure the pet responds well and has no unwanted side-effects.

Some small animals are able to fly with you, as long as the carrier can fit under the seat in front of you. Airlines often have special rules for pug-nosed animals like Persian cats, since they are more at risk from oxygen deprivation. These pets normally have to travel with the passenger, under their seat. This is dependant on the airline; so again, make sure to check before making arrangements. Make sure your carrier is on the airline's approved list, and that your pet can comfortably stand and turn around inside. Kennels are required to be sturdy, opaque, and have a grille door. Food and water bowls should be fixed inside the door so they don't move around. Water will likely spill out as the pet is loaded, making the bedding damp and uncomfortable; try freezing a filled water bowl prior to leaving, or use ice cubes.

It is recommended that your pet is acclimated to its carrier a week or more before traveling. Show them the carrier and let them explore it. Perhaps confine your pet for short periods inside while you are still in sight, so the carrier has no negative associations. Lastly, make sure the carrier is clearly marked with your home and destination addresses, a feeding schedule in case of delays, and an indicator of which side is up.

The last consideration is for weather, as this can greatly affect your flight plans. Most airlines won't permit an animal to fly is the weather is too hot (above 75 degrees) or too cold (below 20 degrees) for any portion of the journey. This can mean flying only at night during the summer months, and cause uncertainty during the winter months. Ultimately, if the animal is at risk from the cargo hold conditions, the best thing to do is leave them off the plane.

If you are taking a pet traveling, the key thing is to be prepared. Check with your airline, and with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns you may have. Here are some links to guidelines on pet travel from several airlines. Stay safe and happy travels.