Are You thinking of having your pet along on your next trip but are you worried about driving distance? Perhaps you’re planning to move across the country or around the world. What options are available? With the help of Trupanion, PetFriendly Travel, the Humane Society, and USA Today, Here are the four best options to take your dog on a trip.
1 Take your pet into the plane seat with you.
Unfortunately, it is only available to small dogs. The rules differ by airlines; however, generally, the dog and the pet carrier should be less than 20 pounds and be able to fit into the seat in front of you.
Each flight is allowed a specific number of pets, so inform the airline you plan to bring one and inquire about their guidelines.
The leading airlines that allow pets in their cabins (on certain flights) include Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, and United. The fees vary but typically range between $50 and-125.
2. Fly them in the cargo hold.
What happens if your dog’s too large to fit in the cabin? Can they safely fly in the cargo?
Some pets get injured, lost, or killed each year due to being transported as cargo. Many airlines are now banning brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds because they are susceptible to breathing issues even under ideal conditions.
A dog flying in cargo can be risky. If it’s not possible, there are some guidelines.
- Use direct flights.
- Inform the captain and at the very least one flight attendant that your dog will be traveling in cargo. The captain can take additional precautions.
- Select flights based on the seasons. In the morning or later evening, flight times are best in summer. Afternoon flights are best in winter.
- Choose a collar that won’t be pulled off by something. Attach a permanent ID that includes your name, address, and phone number, and an ID for travel with the address and telephone number you or your contact can be reachable.
- Add a label to the carrier that includes your name, address, phone number, the destination of the final, and the location of the number at which you or a contact person can be located.
- Make sure your dog’s nails aren’t too long to keep them from becoming hooked on any object.
- Pets should be given a month to get used to the carrier to reduce anxiety when traveling.
- Do not offer your pets tranquilizers unless your vet has prescribed them during the trip.
- Don’t feed your pet for about 4 to 6 hours before the journey. Do provide them with tiny quantities of water. Place some ice cubes inside the water tray in the pet’s cage. (A overflowing water bowl is likely to overflow. )
- Unlock the pet carrier immediately after placing the pet in a secure area and inspect your pet. If there is anything that seems off, go to the vet directly. The test results are in writing, with the date and the time.
Airlines that allow pets to travel within the cargo area are Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American, British Airways, Delta, Qantas, and United. The weight limit for pets varies widely between an upper limit of 31 pounds for dogs and the dog kennel at Delta up to 150 pounds on Alaska Airlines. The fees range from $100 to $200. Be sure to check the laws and regulations of each airline.
3. Transport them via freight.
There are a variety of businesses that specialize in the transportation of animals as cargo, air, or land.
Begin by contacting IPATA. IPATA is the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association founded in 1979, which offers “professional, reliable and compassionate pet transport relocation services all over the USA and across the globe.” Locating a business via IPATA can be ideal to stay clear of being scammed.
Expect to spend anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, based on many factors, such as size, distance, and the possibility of your dog traveling via air or land.
4. Book a flight.
Many charter plane companies allow pets to fly on their planes (although generally, they’re needed to be in an animal carrier throughout the flight). If you can afford it, this is the most suitable option for traveling long distances while you’re with your furry friend. Because the price is for the entire plane, not per passenger and pet may not be as costly as you think if you have an extended family or group of friends traveling together.
No matter the transport method and the type of travel, proof of current vaccinations and a health certification from an animal vet within ten days before the flight date are generally required.
