Whenever it is possible to avoid flying with your pet in the cargo area, do so. Unless your animal is small enough to fit in the cabin under your seat, try to leave your pet with a qualified sitter. If you must fly with your pet as cargo, there are some tips so making your transport a little safer for your four legged friend.
- Have your pet checked out by your Vet and be sure to have all of her vaccinations up to date. In the instance you are traveling outside of the United States, additional planning will be necessary. Get in touch with the foreign country you are traveling to for more detailed information.
- Having a microchip in your pet is best along with wearing a collar and ID tag. The collar should have destination information on it in case your pet escapes.
- Fly direct if possible. It will reduce the chances that your pet is left on the tarmac during extreme weather or mishandled by baggage personal.
- Fly your pet in a USDA approved shipping crate that is big enough for your pet to sit, stand and turn around easily in.
- Write the words “Live Animal” on the top and sides of the crate. Use arrows to unmistakably indicate the upright position of the crate. Also write the name, address and phone number of your pet’s destination point.
- Make sure the door of the crate is securely closed, but not locked, so that airline personnel can open it in case of emergency.
- Attach a current photo of your pet to the crate for identification purposes incase your pet escapes its carrier.
- Freeze a small tray of water for your pet the night before you leave. This way it can’t spill during loading and will melt by the time he’s thirsty.
- Giving your pet a pill to sedate them is not generally recommended as it could hinder your pets breathing. Always check with your Veterinarian first.
- If the plane is delayed, or if you have any concerns about your pet, insist that airline personnel check the animal whenever possible.
