Airline Pet Travel: Preparing Your Pet to Fly

Airline pet travel is not easy. Every airline has guidelines, rules and restrictions for bringing a pet onboard or transporting them in the cargo area of the plane. While many airlines have the same restrictions, there may be slight variations. Additionally, there are many considerations that you as a pet owner must consider prior to traveling with your pet. Being unaware of the rules or not adhering to them all but ensures that you will be unable to travel by air with your pet.

Crates

For both cats and dogs taken onto an airplane, regardless of whether they will be taken onboard or placed in the cargo area, must be in an approved crate. Such a crate must be made of plastic or another sturdy material and have a grate that will close to seal the pet inside. If the pet will be taken onboard, the container must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of yours without obstructing any of the floor space. The same restrictions apply to birds and other animals.

Weight and Number Restrictions

Most airlines will allow up to two pets to be carried onboard for the entire flight. This means that if a third person requests to be able to bring a pet onboard, they will be denied permission and the pet will have to be stored in the cargo area. Similarly, most airlines will only allow pets up to fifteen or sometimes twenty five pounds to be carried onboard. Larger pets must be stored in the cargo area.

Veterinary Paperwork

Prior to taking any pet on an airplane, the owner must supply the airlines with a veterinary report no more than 30 days old that states that the pet is in good general health. This form can be very specific, but most vets will have it on file and will fill it out after a general examination and possibly fax it to the airline for you. It is always smart to keep a copy of this certificate with you while you travel so that you will be able to produce it if requested.

Length of Flight

Despite your desire to travel by air with your pet, it might not be the best decision. Many pets, particularly small ones, may not be able to withstand long flights and may become sick or possibly pass away due to the stress of a long-distance air travel. If your pet is sick or elderly, you might consider not traveling with your pet or using alternative traveling methods.

Sedation of Your Pet

Some airlines or vets might recommend sedating your pet prior to traveling by air. Usually, a dose of Benadryl or other over-the-counter medication is suggested, but many vets will offer to write a prescription for sedation. While sedating your pet might make it easier for them to travel because it will make him tired, it might also have the opposite effect where the medicine makes your pet more agitated. Do not sedate your pet without speaking first to your physician about whether doing so is advisable.