subject: Air Travel For Dogs And Cats: Ten Techniques To Ensure A Safe Trip [print this page] Traveling by airplane can be very stressful, both for you and the four-legged members of your family. But with thoughtful homework, you can guarantee a safe and comfortable journey for everyone.
Humane organizations encourage pet owners to think carefully when it comes to transporting their pets on commercial flights, particularly if they plan on checking them in as cargo. Unless your four-legged friend is tiny and can fit under your seat and you can bring him or her in the cabin, the ASPCA discourages pet owners from flying their animals. For owners of cats and dogs who have previously committed to transporting their animal companions on commercial aircraft, here are ten tips for safe airplane trips with your dog or cat:
Before You Fly
1. Have your pet checked by a veterinarian, and make sure all vaccinations are current. Get a health certificate from your veterinarian dated within ten days of departure. Howver, if you plan to travel outside of the continental United States, even more preparation and health care requirements might be necessary. For more information, contact the foreign office of the country to which you will be traveling.
Microchip and ID Tag
2. Make sure your dog or cat has a microchip for identification and is wearing a collar and ID tag. Breakaway collars are best for cats. Also, the collar ought to include destination details in case your pet escapes.
A Direct Flight
3. Arrange a direct flight if possible. This will lower the likelihood that your pet is left on the tarmac during severe weather conditions or mistreated by baggage employees.
Escape-Proof Carrier
4. If your pet will be in the cabin with you, under your seat: You'll want to use a strong, escape-proof carrier. Cats, particularly, can easily squeeze through small openings. Appropriate carriers are mandated by most airlines and are attainable through airlines or at pet-supply outlets. You should double-check the clasp on the carrier and padlock it if possible. The carrier must have adequate ventilation, with at least a three-fourth-inch rim around the sides such that the air holes will not be covered if the cage is pressed against other boxes.
Shipping Crate
5. If your pet will be in the in the baggage hold: Purchase a USDA-approved shipping crate that is large enough for your pet to sit, stand and turn around in comfortably. You can buy shipping crates from numerous pet supply shops and airlines.
Labels and Supplies
6. Print the words "Live Animal" in letters at least one inch tall on top of and at least one side of the kennel. Use arrows to prominently show the upright position of the crate. On the top of the crate, write the name, address and telephone number of your pet's destination spot, and whether you will be attending him or if someone else is picking him up. Be sure that the door is firmly shut, but not locked, so that airline employees can reach your pet in the event of an emergency. Line the crate bottom with some type of bedding--towels paper or shredded--to soak up accidents.
Photo ID
7. Attach a current picture of your pet to the top of the crate for identification purposes. Should your pet break free from the carrier, having a photo ID could be a lifesaver. You should also carry a photograph of your animal.
Shipping Crate
8. The night before you leave, make sure you've frozen a small bowl or tray of water for your pet. That way, it cannot spill during loading, and will melt by the time he's thirsty. Tape a small pouch, preferably cloth, of dried food outside the crate. Airline employees will be able to feed your pet in the event he gets hungry on long-distance flights or a layover.
Tranquilizing Your Pet
9. Tranquilizing your animal is mostly not suggested, as it could impede his respiration. Consult your veterinarian first.
Communicate with Airline Personnel
10. Notify every airline personnel you encounter, in the air and on the ground, that you are flying with a pet in the cargo hold. This way, they'll be ready if some other considerations or attention is needed.
Bonus Tip: Worst Case Scenario
If the aircraft is delayed, or if you have any fears about the wellbeing of your pet, demand that airline employees check the animal whenever feasible. In some circumstances, removing the animal from the cargo hold and deplaneing may be called for.
Conclusion
If you will be traveling by airline, contemplate leaving your pet at home. If you must fly with your pet, do your due diligence, make preparations far ahead of time and make sure you know the airlines restrictions concerning and requirements for flying with pets.
