Published on 07/6/2007

For dog owners who love to travel or need to travel frequently for business, the safety and ease of air travel for pets has cut down on the need for dog sitters and boarding. However, not every dog will adapt well to airplane travel. If you’re considering taking your dog on your next vacation or business trip, you’ll want to have

How to Travel by Plane with Your Dog

For dog owners who love to travel or need to travel frequently for business, the safety and ease of air travel for pets has cut down on the need for dog sitters and boarding. However, not every dog will adapt well to airplane travel. If you’re considering taking your dog on your next vacation or business trip, you’ll want to have a comfortable carrier, a soft blanket, safe chew toys, and a dog treat bag on hand. Included here are a few tips on how to prepare your pup for a long plane trip.

Be sure your dog is in good health. Only consider air travel for your dog if he is in perfect health. The stress of travel can make existing health conditions worse. If your dog is naturally anxious or nervous, you may want to avoid long periods of air travel. Take your dog to the vet before making any travel reservations. If the vet gives him a clean bill of health, you can start making your other travel arrangements. Be sure to stock your carry-on luggage with your dog’s records and vaccination certificates, some toys, a leash, and a dog treat bag.

Be sure your dog is properly vaccinated. According to federal law, a dog must be certified within ten days of travel to be in good health, fully vaccinated, and free of contagious diseases.

Crate-trained dogs will adapt more easily to air travel. If your dog is accustomed to crate training at home, he won’t be as nervous in the small, confined space on the plane. To get your dog acclimated to travel in his crate, try taking him in the car for short trips. To reassure him, bring along a small dog treat bag and reward him for calm behavior.

Don’t travel in extreme weather. Excessively warm or cold temperatures are not ideal for air travel with a pet. You should avoid traveling when outside temperatures are above 85 degrees Fahrenheit or below 35. In fact, many major airlines place embargoes on pet air travel during the summer and winter months. You might consider a fan created specifically for your dog’s crate – this will prevent overheating in more temperate climates.

Be aware of international regulations for quarantine. Some foreign nations, such as the UK and New Zealand, quarantine all animals as soon as they get off the plane. It may seem like an unnecessary inconvenience, but ultimately it is to prevent the spread of disease. Just be sure you have a dog treat bag in your carry-on to reward your dog when he is released to your custody. Each nation has different regulations, so be sure to familiarize yourself before booking reservations. If you need to travel to a country that requires quarantine, you might want to leave your pet safe at home.

With these considerations in mind, you can decide if bringing your dog on an airplane is in his best interest. If you choose to bring him along for the ride, be sure to follow any and all regulations set forth by the airlines and countries you are visiting. When heading to the airport to catch your flight, please remember your dog’s comfort and safety. Keeping a dog treat bag handy never hurts, either. Make him feel safe in his carrier with a blanket and toys, and reward his good behavior with plenty of positive praise and reassurance.