Flying & Traveling with Pets – Layover Guide

It can be difficult saying goodbye to our furry friends, so it’s not uncommon to take them with us when traveling. However, getting your little buddy on board and across borders can be tricky. Fortunately, with the right preparation and planning, your pet will arrive on time and hassle-free.

Pre-Travel Preparations

Research Airline Policies
Different airlines have different policies and pet travel is no exception. For that reason, you should always check the specific airline guidelines and regulations to avoid any hiccups. For instance:

• Required documentation and vaccinations.
• Pet type and breed restrictions.
• Pet size and age limitations.
• Cost and additional fees.
• Pet carrier requirements.

Health Check and Documentation
The health and safety of your pet are always important but when it comes to air travel, most airlines need documentation to prove it. There are three common health documents typically required for your pet to get the all-clear to fly.

• Up-to-date vaccination records.
• A health certificate issued by a veterinarian.
• Microchip and identification tags.

Comfort and Safety Supplies
Comfort and safety supplies are also critical for an airborne pet. Most airlines have strict rules as to what type of carrier can be used. So, it’s important to check that the carrier meets airline standards but is also comfortable for your animal companion.

Here are some other essential items to pack:
• Water.
• Food.
• Medications.
• Toys.
• Collar and leash.

Booking the Flight

Choosing Pet-Friendly Airlines
Selecting a pet-friendly airline that caters to animals will make your hairy friends’ trip a smoother experience. Criteria to consider when choosing an airline with pet-friendly policies include:

• Travel options such as cargo hold and in-cabin
• Experience and proven track record dealing with pets.
• Clear guidelines and communication for what is required.
• Transparent pricing.

Here are a few airlines known for their stellar pet travel services:
• Alaska Airlines.
• British Airways.
• Air Canada.
• Hawaiian Airlines.

Scheduling Flights
No one enjoys multiple or long layovers on flights, especially animals. So, choosing a direct flight will help you arrive faster and reduce stress for your hairy companion. Moreover, it’s also smart to book a flight during optimal travel times to avoid extreme weather that will frighten your pet.

Preparing for the Journey

Acclimating Your Pet
Getting your pet ready for the travel environment is key to minimizing travel anxiety. Having them sleep in the carrier for a few nights leading up to the trip is a great way to familiarize them with it. Also, taking them on short road trips in the carrier will help acclimatize them for the journey ahead.

Packing Essentials
There are some packing essentials you should have on hand to ensure a safe and comfortable flight for your pet. The most important is a readily accessible pet travel kit with all the necessary items within reach. Items including:

• Pet wipes and waste bags.
• Medications including anti-anxiety meds if needed.
• Treats, water, and water bowl.
• Soft blanket.
• First aid kit.

At the Airport

Navigating the Airport
Many airports provide relief areas that are a great place for your pet to relieve itself before taking off. The best way to find them is to speak to the information desk at the airport. But before you can board, you will first have to check in and pass through security.

Here are a few tips to make it a breeze:
• Arrive early.
• Have documentation ready.
• Inform the airline at the time of booking and again at check-in.
• Inspect the carrier.
• Keep your pet calm.

Handling Layovers
A layover is an opportunity to check in with your pet and give it some much-needed love. It’s also a good time for a drink and a nibble. The best move is to check with the information desk for animal-friendly areas where your pet can stretch its legs and go to the bathroom.

In-Flight Considerations

Cabin vs. Cargo Travel
Cabin means that your pet will be by your side for the duration of the flight. Whereas cargo means your pet will be stowed in a special area in the plane’s cargo hold. The size and breed of your pet will determine if it has the option to travel in the cabin.

Keeping Your Pet Comfortable
A comfortable, well-ventilated carrier is the key to keeping your pet relaxed. For cargo, the carrier should have soft bedding so it will be comfortable. For the cabin, you can reassure your pet the old-fashioned way with love and treats.
However, if your pet is a particularly bad flyer, you can speak to a vet about getting medication to keep them calm during the flight.

Arrival and Post-Travel Care

Post-Travel Health Check
If your pet is showing signs of illness or stress after the trip, it’s wise to take them to the vet immediately for a check-up. However, for a long-haul journey, even if it’s showing no signs of sickness a check-up can’t hurt.

Settling In
First, take your pet to a quiet place to decompress and comfort it with your presence and familiar items like toys. After that, give it some food and water and monitor it for signs of illness. Finally, get into and maintain a routine to make it feel secure and at home.

Special Considerations

Traveling with Service Animals
Different countries and airlines have different regulations regarding service animals on flights. It’s essential to check with both the airline and relevant government organizations beforehand. This will ensure you meet the criteria and fill out the right documentation.

Traveling with Exotic Pets
As with service animals, exotic pet regulations vary depending on the country and airline. So, checking is once again essential. Exotic pets often have additional requirements that must be met such as:

• Additional legal requirements.
• Additional veterinarian certificates.
• Climate-controlled carriers, especially for reptiles.

Conclusion
Pets are family and ensuring that they have a pleasant flying experience is the goal. By researching, prepping, and planning, you can make the journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. So, your pet will be as happy as you upon arrival.