Are you taking your pooch or kitten on vacation with you? Here are a few tips on how to safely fly with your pets.
Before You Fly
Make sure that your lodging arrangements in the destination city allow pets. Most hotels allow small pets, but an additional pet fee is usually required. In addition, make sure that your pet will be comfortable in the temporary space. A cat may adapt quickly to a hotel room, but dogs may need to be on the ground floor with quick access to a grassy area. Think about what your pet likes and needs before you book a reservation.
Check with your airline for specific guidelines for pet travel. There are many guidelines for pet travel, including pet health, pet breed and even the temperature. Since guidelines can vary widely among airlines, you’ll need to read up on your airline’s specific restrictions. Even if you’ve flown with a particular airline before, some airlines have different rules depending on your destination, so it’s always good to double-check the rules before you get to the airport.
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Sedation
While it might make sense to use sedation to keep your pet calm for the duration of the flight, sedation is actually dangerous for your pet. Sedation impedes an animal’s natural ability to respond to the changes that come with flight, such as increased altitude pressure. A sedated pet may develop respiratory problems when flying.
Cabin Pet
Small pets are allowed onboard the plane, but they usually require a reservation. Flights often have a maximum number of pets allowed onboard, so to be sure your pet is accommodated, reserve his or her spot. Many pet restrictions apply, such as pet age, pet weight, pet carrier size, pet carrier type and pet health. Pets must remain in their carriers under the seat at all times.
Checked Pet
If your pet will be traveling as checked baggage, a reservation is not needed. Restrictions for checked pets include a valid health certificate, flight length, pet carrier types, pet carrier size and pet weight. Soft-sided carriers are not considered sturdy enough to be used for checked-baggage pets.
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As you’re looking for holiday deals for your next vacation, remember the needs of your furry friend. Traveling with a pet requires a little more preparation and perhaps some extra fees, but isn’t it worth it to have your pet by your side on vacation?
