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Dog Air Travel Safety

Dog air travel safety is an important consideration for anyone considering flying with their pooch. Airlines may have different policies regarding approved carriers, small dogs in the cabin, or other important issues. Be sure to verify all arrangements with your air carrier to avoid any last minute surprises.

Be sure the carrier you are using to transport your dog is approved by any airlines involved in your trip. Many small airlines are owned or operated by larger airlines, so be sure to verify all policies when planning your trip. When choosing a carrier, making sure that is the proper size for your pet is critical. The dog should have enough room to stand, turn, and lie down. Be sure that her collar and ID tags cannot become accidentally hooked on the carrier door.

If your dog is small enough and your airline will allow it, you may be able to bring the carrier onto the plane with you. Do not assume this will be allowed based simply on the size of your dog; be sure to verify it with the airlines. Whether your dog is in the cabin with you or must be loaded into the cargo hold, be sure that his ID tags are securely attached. When considering dog air travel safety, your dog should have two ID tags: one with your home address or contact info and one with your contact info at your destination. Many dog owners now opt to put their cell phone numbers on their dogs' ID tags, rather than or in addition to a home number, to make an extra tag unnecessary. The important thing is that your dog can be easily returned to you if he gets away while you are traveling.

If your dog’s carrier must be loaded into the cargo hold of the plane, be sure your contact information is written on the carrier as well as on the dog’s tags. Place absorbent materials like old towels on the bottom of the carrier, and use a wide permanent marker to clearly note which direction is “UP” and to write “LIVE ANIMAL” in letters at least 1” high. Weather is an important factor in dog air travel safety. Booking direct flights whenever possible will minimize the number of times your dog gets moved and the amount of time he may spend on the tarmac being loaded or unloaded. This is especially important during very hot or very cold times of the year.

Be sure to carry your dog’s leash with you at all times, rather than leaving it in or on the carrier. This will prevent the leash from getting lost and ensure you are ready to walk your dog as soon as you are reunited with him. Carry a recent picture of your dog, and consider attaching one to the outside of the carrier, in the unfortunate event the dog gets loose from the carrier.

Dog air travel safety requires advance planning, as well as research on your part to learn airline policies. The rewards are a safe trip and a healthy dog, which is certainly worthwhile!

 

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