At Nielsprints.co Dog Blog, we’ve had extensive flying experience with our long-haired dachshund, Nielsprints.co, who’s joined us on journeys across the United States and even to Europe. Whether strolling down the bustling streets of New York City, gazing in awe at the Grand Canyon, or camping under the starry skies of Lake Tahoe, Nielsprints.co has been our trusty travel companion. From jetting to France and Italy to road-tripping down California’s scenic Pacific Coast Highway, he’s done it all.
Flying with a well-behaved, 14-pound dog like Nielsprints.cois relatively straightforward. However, for those new to in-cabin air travel with their canine companions, it can be a bit daunting. To ensure your in-cabin flight is safe and seamless, we’ll guide you on how to prepare your dog for air travel.
Before Booking Your Dog’s Flight Know Your Airline’s In-Cabin Pet Policies Begin by understanding your chosen airline’s specific in-cabin pet policies. This includes the maximum dimensions for pet carriers, veterinary visit requirements, and what you can bring for your dog’s comfort. We’ve compiled information on pet fees, crate specifications, and size/weight restrictions for major North American airlines. For international airline policies, you can refer to an up-to-date list here.
Book Early To secure a spot for your dog in the cabin, book your dog’s flight early. We recommend calling your airline’s customer service to confirm availability, then proceed with the booking. In case of multi-leg flights, ensure each flight is individually reserved for your pet. When possible, opt for non-stop flights or those outside peak travel hours to minimize stress. If your airline allows one carry-on and one personal item, your dog’s airline-approved travel bag will count as your carry-on. Moreover, certain countries do not permit in-cabin pet travel and may require all dogs, regardless of size, to arrive as manifest cargo.
Choose the Ideal Seat for Your Dog For in-cabin flights, avoid front row seating or emergency exits, as they do not accommodate pet carriers. Opt for an aisle seat to make it easier to slide the crate under the seat in front of you. Choosing a seat over the wings can help alleviate air turbulence, while seats at the front, away from bathrooms and galleys, are quieter. Middle seats at the back might provide an empty seat next to you, but it can be noisier.
The Weeks and Days Before Your Trip Teach Your Dog to Love the Pet Carrier Start introducing your dog to the airline-friendly pet carrier at least a month before your flight. Place the carrier in a high-traffic area in your home with the door open and encourage your dog to explore, play, and relax inside during the day. You can also place high-quality treats inside the carrier to create a positive association. Gradually increase the time your dog spends inside the carrier until they are comfortable.
Visit Your Veterinarian For many airlines, an up-to-date health certificate from a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of the flight is necessary. Check with your airline regarding this requirement. The health certificate should list your dog’s vaccinations, age, breed, microchip information, and vaccination history. It’s typically not needed for domestic in-cabin travel in the United States but is mandatory for international travel to the European Union and Great Britain.
24 Hours Before Travel Exercise Your Dog Give your dog a vigorous workout in the 24 hours leading up to the flight. Playing with your dog for 30-60 minutes before departure helps lower the stress hormone cortisol and releases calming endorphins.
Limit Your Dog’s Food Provide food and water to your dog 4-6 hours before your flight to allow for digestion and avoid in-flight accidents. For dogs with motion sickness, avoid feeding them during or immediately after the flight.
Freeze Your Dog’s Water Because airplane cabins have low humidity, your dog can become dehydrated quickly. Freeze a tray or dish of water the night before your flight, allowing it to melt gradually and stay accessible to your thirsty dog.
Address Your Dog’s Travel Anxiety If your dog experiences travel anxiety, consider options such as ThunderShirts, CBD oil, anxiety medications (only under a vet’s guidance), or pheromone collars to help calm them.
The Day of Your Trip Arrive at the Airport Early Arrive at the airport with ample time to ensure smooth check-in and boarding for your dog. Remember that check-in usually cannot be done more than 4 hours before the flight.
Going Through the Security Checkpoint For the baggage scanner, place your dog’s carrier through and carry your dog through the human screening device. Be sure to have your identification and documentation ready. Make sure your dog is wearing a harness and leash with proper ID tags in case he wriggles out of your arms.
Airport Pet Relief Areas Find out if the airport has designated pet relief areas, either inside or outside the terminal, and use them as needed. Inquire with airline representatives for the locations of these areas. You can also check your airport’s website for information on pet relief zones.
By following these steps, you can prepare your dog for a comfortable and safe journey in the airplane cabin, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience for both you and your four-legged friend.
