Flying Pooches: Preparing Your Dog for Air Travel

It doesn’t happen too often, but sometimes you’ll need to transport your dog long distances, and this will generally involve air travel. The problem is this: dogs aren’t really built for flying, and planes aren’t usually constructed with dogs in mind either. So, how can you ensure that your pooch has a comfortable and stress-free trip?

Before we start, it should be mentioned that different airlines have different policies when it comes to traveling with dogs. Some, such as BA, insist that dogs have to be transported in the hold, while others are perfectly fine with dogs taking their trip in the cabin, along with their owners.

Most of the latter types of airlines generally have a size limitation though, meaning that chihuahuas are probably fine, but you won’t be able to get your mastiff a seat! Of course, exceptions are made for assistance dogs though.

So, in order to make your dog’s journey as easy as possible, follow the tips found below…

Get a Great Carrier or Crate

Regardless of whether your dog travels in the cabin or the hold, it will need to spend all of its time in a carrier or crate. After all, air stewardesses probably won’t be too happy if they keep getting tripped up by your overly-friendly pug! This means that you must get the most comfortable carrier or crate you can find, as well as one with plenty of space.

It isn’t hard to find one though, as you’ll find a fantastic selection of different pet carriers at Top Dog Apparel. As already mentioned, space is incredibly important for your dog. A good carrier or crate will be one that is large enough for them to turn around in, but also small enough that they feel hidden and secure. Don’t forget: air travel is going to be stressful for your dog, so they’ll probably want to feel hidden throughout.

You should also ensure that your carrier/crate has an easy way to give your dog water, especially on longer journeys. Of course, it goes without saying that any carrier or crate should also be strong, as a stressed dog could try escaping. So, make sure the bars and/or material are strong, and that the locks are able to withstand a decent amount of pressure.

Familiarization

If your dog has never been in a carrier or crate before, it might not like the experience too much at first. Therefore, it is vital you familiarize them with the process before the day of the flight. The best way to do this is simple: put them in and out of the container multiple times per day, and as you do so, extend the time you leave them for.

Remember to always put them in while in a positive frame of mind though, so they don’t associate the container with bad memories. Of course, even with the best training, your dog could be stressed when the day comes. To help ease the stress slightly, try to provide them with blankets containing familiar smells.

It could even be useful to rub a blanket over yourself before giving it to them, so they have the comfort of your smell throughout. A favorite toy or two is also a great idea, as it will help to relieve any boredom they might experience.

On the Day

If your dog isn’t too happy with the crate or container when the day to fly comes around, there’s not really much more you can do. There are some things you can do to ensure their trip is comfortable though, and these mostly relate to their toilet habits.

Essentially, you want to ensure that they don’t get desperate for the bathroom when you’re mid-way over the Atlantic, as they won’t have anywhere to relieve themselves – except their own crate, of course. To give them the best chance of avoiding any mishaps, you should avoid feeding your dog for a number of hours beforehand – six hours is generally the benchmark.

You should also definitely avoid feeling guilty and plying them with doggy treats. Water is a trickier one, as they can’t be left without it, but try to give them just enough to keep them hydrated, but not so much that their bladder becomes full. Also, make sure they are given the chance to relieve themselves just before they board.

Air travel is never going to be a fantastic experience for a dog, but as a responsible owner, you can make it more bearable. Once you’ve landed though, they should absolutely love exploring a whole different place with you!

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