Pets traveling for long hours on a flight can be a difficult experience, but with adequate planning and some tips, your pet will be comfortable and safe during the travel. Whether you’re relocating, going on vacation, or traveling for any other reason, these tips on how to keep pets comfortable on long flights help to ensure your furry friend has a stress-free experience.
How to Get Your Pet Ready to Fly
Research Airline Policies
Research your airline’s pet travel policies before securing your ticket. Each airline has its own regulations on pet carriers, pet fees, and pet documentation. Check if your pet qualifies to travel in-cabin or in cargo. Because airlines do not frequently permit many in-cabin pets in their cabins, it’s important to book early. Verify the weight and size limits for pet carriers and whether your pet qualifies for in-cabin travel or will be required to fly in the cargo hold.
Visit the Veterinarian
A pre-trip vet check-up is crucial. Make sure your pet is fit to fly and check their vaccinations are up to date where needed. Discuss possible motion sickness medication with your vet, or calming aids if your pet suffers from anxiety. Get a pet health certificate — this is required by most airlines and countries. Your vet can also suggest microchipping your pet for more security if they are lost.
Get Your Pet Comfortable in Their Carrier
One of the best ways to ensure safer and more comfortable travel for your furry friend on long flights is to acclimate them to the carrier. Get the carrier out well in advance and create a safe, cozy place for the carrier. Put familiar items such as blankets or toys inside to make them feel secure. Begin to extend the time your pet is in the carrier — starting with a few minutes to a few hours; this will help them get used to the confinement.
Packing Items for Your Pet
Pet Cabin Carriers Comfortable & Airline Approved
Select a spacious, airline-approved carrier that’s the appropriate size for your pet. The carrier must provide her enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Include absorbent pads for any potential accidents in flight. For in-cabin travel, look for a carrier with floppy sides that can fit under the seat but still leaves enough room for your pet.
Food, Water, and Treats
Bring sufficient food and treats for your travels, but avoid overindulging before flying to prevent motion sickness. Bring a traveling bowl that you can collapse and allow small sips from it on a layover or before boarding. Take along a small quantity of your pet’s regular food in case of delays or lengthened travel time. Do not try new food if your dog is going on the trip with you to avoid trouble with the digestive system.
Familiar Items
Pack items that smell familiar, like their favorite blanket, a toy, or a piece of your clothing. Familiar smells might help relieve some of the anxiety and comfort your pet more. Bring along a comfort item that your pet associates with positive experiences to soothe her during the flight.
Keeping Your Pet Comfortable During the Flight
Choose Direct Flights
Always try to book a direct flight to save time for travel and reduce the trouble of layovers. If you cannot avoid a layover, make sure to schedule one that is long enough for you to see your pet and provide care for a bit. Nonstop flights also reduce the risk of mishandling and a pet getting transferred between flights.
Monitor Cabin Temperature
If your pet will be traveling in cargo, confirm whether the airline maintains its cargo hold to be temperature-controlled and pressurized. If you’re bringing an in-cabin pet, keep the temperature regulated with a cooling mat or extra padding if it’s cold. Do not put the carrier in direct sunlight as you wait to board the plane.
Avoid Sedation
Sedating pets is generally not recommended because it can compromise their ability to manage body temperature and become problematic at high altitudes. Instead, use natural calming aids, like pheromone sprays or supplements recommended by your veterinarian. Talk to your vet about alternatives so that you can keep your pet calm without sedation.
Handling Layovers and Contingencies
Plan Layover Activities
For long layovers, locate the pet relief areas in the airport. Many airports now have pet relief areas where they can stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Look up the airports on your route to find those with amenities for traveling pets. Once regulations allow, give your pet time to decompress outside of their carrier.
Emergency Preparedness
Keep a list of emergency veterinary clinics at your destination and on your route. Add a basic pet first aid kit to your carry-on bag for unplanned events. Think about band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any medications that you may need. Learn common signs of distress in pets, like excessive panting or restlessness, so you can address problems early.
Post-Flight Care for Your Pet
Allow Time to Adjust
Once you land, allow your pet time to acclimatize to their new environment. Provide water and a light meal to resupply. Let them stretch and probe their new environment at their own pace. Once you land, do not overstimulate your pet right away; they will also need some time to recover from their flight.
Monitor for Signs of Stress
Be aware of signs of stress or discomfort (excessive panting, drooling, abnormal behavior). Please consult a vet as soon as you think any of your pets is unwell. Keep track of their appetite, energy level, and bathroom behavior to make sure they’re adjusting nicely.
Answering Those Common Questions About Traveling with Pets Long Distances
Can I bring my pet in the cabin with me?
Yes, many small pets that can fit in an airline-approved pet carrier under the seat are permitted in the cabin. Check individual airlines for specific policies.
How do I help my pet get through a flight with less anxiety?
Acclimating your fur baby to their travel carrier, using calming aids, and bringing familiar items along for the ride can do wonders to help with anxiety.
What can I do if my pet becomes airsick?
Talk to your vet about motion sickness medication. Offering a light meal a few hours before flying is also useful in preventing airsickness.
Are some breeds more suited to air travel?
Brachycephalic breeds (like bulldogs, pugs, etc.) may have issues due to their breathing troubles. Check with your vet to see whether air travel is OK for your pet.
Is it safe for pets to travel as cargo?
Yes, provided it is handled by respected airlines — with adequate temperature control and airplane pressurization. Select airlines that have a good reputation for pet travel.
Conclusion
Here are a few tips to traveling with your pet and planning long flights: If you follow these tips on how to keep pets comfortable on long flights, you’ll experience a smooth and safe journey with your furry companion. Each step, from picking the right carrier to mastering layovers, helps make your journey smoother. Please share your pet travel tips or experiences in the comments section below, so we can help out fellow pet owners!