Flying with Your Pet
Air travel can be stressful for pets, so it's crucial to take precautions to keep them safe and comfortable.
Before the Flight
Traveling by car gives your pet more freedom but also comes with its own set of safety concerns.
Preparation
Whether you're flying or driving, these additional steps can help ensure a smooth journey:
Air travel can be stressful for pets, so it's crucial to take precautions to keep them safe and comfortable.
Before the Flight
- Book a direct flight: Minimize layovers to reduce stress and potential mishaps.
- Veterinary checkup: Ensure vaccinations are up to date and obtain a health certificate dated within 10 days of departure.
- Invest in a USDA-approved crate: Your pet’s travel crate should be spacious enough for them to stand, sit, and turn comfortably. Line it with bedding to absorb accidents.
- Prepare food and water: Tape a small pouch of dried food outside the crate and freeze water in a dish the night before departure to prevent spills.
- Proper identification: Use “Live Animal” stickers on the crate as required by the USDA, and include your contact information and a photo of your pet.
- Inform every airline employee that you have a pet traveling in the cargo hold so they can provide any necessary assistance.
Traveling by car gives your pet more freedom but also comes with its own set of safety concerns.
Preparation
- Practice longer rides: Help your pet adjust to extended car trips.
- Use a secure crate or carrier: Ensure proper ventilation and secure placement in case of sudden stops.
- Pack a pet travel kit: Include food, water, bowls, a leash, waste bags, toys, first aid supplies, and grooming essentials.
- Never leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle: Extreme temperatures can be dangerous, even for a short time.
Whether you're flying or driving, these additional steps can help ensure a smooth journey:
- Identification: Equip your pet with an ID tag and/or microchip, plus a special travel tag with your temporary contact information.
- Carry a current photo of your pet: This can be useful in case they get lost.
- Bring proof of vaccinations: Especially important if crossing state or international borders.
- Crate training: If your pet will be spending time in a crate while visiting friends or family, make sure they’re comfortable in one before your trip.
- Exercise before traveling: Physical and mental stimulation can help keep your pet calm during travel.
- Consider calming products: Wraps, sprays, and balms can ease stress for anxious pets.