Air transportation with pets
Some animals have no problem
with traveling by air, while others seem
overwhelmed by the experience. To cut down
on the stress of air travel for your pet,
make every effort to arrange for a direct
flight to your destination. If your flight
arrangements include transfers, your pet
may be subjected to cold or hot weather during
the process of changing planes.
Whatever your plans and destination, be
sure to make your air travel arrangements
well in advance of the departure date. Additionally,
confirm special arrangements and fees for
your pet’s travel, and obtain your
airline’s requirements for pet shipping
carriers and containers. Some airlines have
special guidelines for the size and construction
of pet carriers. Generally, the carrier needs
to be large enough to allow your pet to stand,
turn around, and lay down comfortably. Additionally,
the carrier must be properly ventilated.
You may be required to arrive at the airport
earlier than other passengers to arrange
for your pet’s travel. Be prepared
to add this time to your schedule.
In some cases, very small animals are permitted
to travel in the airplane’s cabin with
you. Check with your airline to see if your
pet meets size restrictions and to find out
about any particular vaccination or travel
carrier requirements. Seeing eye dogs are
normally permitted to travel free of charge
in the airplane’s cabin, but the airline
must be informed in advance of the dog’s
travel.
Airlines do not permit pets less than eight
weeks old to fly. Your pet’s age will
need to be verified through the health certificate
provided by your veterinarian.
If your pet is flying solo or is too large
to travel with you in the cabin, it will
fly separately in the plane’s freight
area.
To reduce the risk of motion sickness in
your pet, allow it to eat no less than five
to six hours before the flight’s departure.
Likewise, your pet should drink water no
less than two hours before flying.
You may want to inquire about special pet
insurance for the purposes of your pet’s
flight.