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Plane travel with your dog
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Photo by Rick Seaney/ABC NEWS
Going on a trip this summer with your dog that requires plane travel? If so, be prepared. Make sure your dog’s care and accommodations will make for a good flight. Here’s what to do. Just:
1- Fly non-stop
Don’t take your dog on a plane trip that requires a lot of stops. Besides the fact that the extended airtime might cause him physical discomfort, you can also lose him during the switch from planes. So, fly non-stop whenever possible. Also, if you do end up having a stop in-between flight, see if the airline will allow you take your dog off and then re-check him in when it is time to board the new plane.
2- Travel early.
Avoid taking your dog on a plane trip during the heat of the day. Plan your air flight for the early morning when it is cool. Excessive heat will cause your dog to be uncomfortable the entire flight. Also, it can lead to illnesses like dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat cramps. You don’t want face these kinds of troubles at your new destination. Therefore, plan accordingly.
3- Crate appropriately.
Be sure that you crate your dog appropriately. What does this mean? Clearly mark your crate with the description of your dog, your contact information and emergency phone numbers. Don’t feed him four hours before the flight; this lowers the chance that he will need to defecate or urinate in his crate. Keep items (toys/small bones) he could choke on or injure himself with out of his crate. Make sure the crate is the right size - one that can fully accommodate his body.
4- Avoid tranquilizers.
You may be tempted to tranquilize your dog before the plane ride to keep him quiet and sedate. However, this is not a good idea. Why? A tranquilizer will prevent your dog’s body from being able to adjust to the temperature and other conditions of the flight. As a result, you want to avoid tranquilizing your dog unless he likely to injure himself in the crate or break out of it.
5- Remain watchful.
One of the most important things to do when flying with your pet dog is to remain watchful. Be sure he is checked in properly. Sit near a window and be sure he is boarded onto the plane. Keep an eye on him while waiting together in the lobby. By being wary, you’ll decrease the risk of you and your dog being separated some how on the trip.
These five things will help you and your dog fly successfully. Your plane travel will be snap and one that you both will remember fondly.
Check it out! Are you trying to housebreak a puppy? Get a few extra tips on how to do by reading Woman's Day article Housebreaking a Puppy.
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