Flying with pets is becoming increasingly popular. According to The Travel Industy Association, 29.1 million Americans traveled with their pets within the last three years.
As with most things in life there are a few guidelines pet owners should know before booking a flight with their pet. Careful planning will ensure the flight is a good experience for both pet and owner.
Animals that Can Fly
Small dogs, cats, and birds over eight weeks old can fly inside the cabin with their owners. Larger pets can travel as checked baggage, or cargo. For safety pets cannot travel in extreme heat or cold. Some airlines have embargos in place during the summer; certain pedigrees are not able to endure extreme heat.
Fees
The average price airlines charge is $150.00 to $250.00 one way for small pets inside the cabin. Large pets can travel in the cargo section for $200.00 to $500.00 one way. This all depends on the airline and the destination.
Identification
To prevent the pet from becoming lost, place an identification tag on its collar with the owner’s name, address, and the phone number of the place where the owner will be staying while on vacation. Attach a name tag to the kennel too.
Pet Carriers
A leak proof, soft sided carrier or a hard sided kennel can be used to transport the pet. Hard-sided kennels must meet certain dimensions; the carrier must be big enough for the pet to move around comfortably, and small enough to fit under the seat.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration's guidelines, the pet must remain inside the carrier and underneath the seat at all times during the flight. It is a good idea to familiarize the pet with the carrier before the flight. Although it may be tempting to get the pet out during a long flight, this is strictly prohibited.
Security
The Transportation Safety Administration has a "traveling with pets" page with helpful travel tips on the easiest way to go through security with pets. Pets are screened at security the same as humans. Pets should never be placed on the X-ray belt for screening.
Healthy Pets
Keep veterinarian certifications in-hand at all times when traveling with a pet, just in case airline officials requests to see them.
Tranquilizers should not be given to pets on flights. The combination or tranquilizers and high altitudes could cause serious health issues. The American Veterinarian Medical Association does not recommend tranquilizers.
Bathroom Breaks
If there is time between connecting flights take the pet outside to relieve itself and to get a bit of exercise. More and more airports are becoming pet friendly with pet parks on property. For a list of airports that have pet parks check the list at Pet Friendly Travel.
To Ease the Pet's Comfort Level
In order to make the pet feel more relaxed in these unfamiliar surroundings, bring a few things from home to make the flight more comfortable.
- Pet’s favorite toy
- Blanket
- Small bowl for water
- Absorbent pad liners to place in the bottom of the carrier
- Pet snacks
- I.D. Collar and Leash
Make sure to check with the airline that you will be flying on for their specific rules and regulations. Flying with pets does require extra planning, yet being able to bring the family pet on vacation is well worth it.
May Flowers - May Flowers is a freelance travel writer. She specializes in travel planning, cruising, and vacation destinations. Her travel career ...
