Ultimate Guide to Taking a Dog On a Plane

Have you ever thought about taking a dog on a plane? It's a journey fueled by the desire to explore new destinations and the profound bond between pet owners and their beloved dogs. How is that even possible? 

Join us as we embark on this extraordinary journey, where the skies are the limit and the companionship of our canine co-pilots transforms ordinary trips into exceptional escapades!

Preparing Your Pup Before Taking A Dog on A Plane

First and foremost, crate training is the key!

Introduce your dog to their travel crate well before the trip, making them familiar with its confines and feel comfortable spending time inside. Gradually increase the duration of crate time to help them adjust.

If you need assistance, Global Paws can help you crate train your furry friends before the trip. Visit our website here.

Before travel

Schedule a visit to the vet to ensure your dog is in good health and up-to-date on vaccinations. Discuss any specific concerns and obtain the necessary travel documentation.

Packing for trip

When packing your goodies, taking a dog on a plane includes essential supplies such as food, water, medications, and toys or blankets to provide comfort. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating Airport Procedures

Before taking a dog on a plane, it's essential to ensure they are well-prepared for the journey ahead, such as pet travel documents. Here’s a practical step-by-step guide to help you breeze through airport procedures with your furry friend.

Excess Baggage

Pets travelling as excess baggage can come along on the same flight. This way, you and your furry friend can travel together hassle-free (accompanied travel)!

1. Preparation is Key: Before You Arrive Research & Reservations

Airlines are pretty strict about excess baggage pets. Make sure to check out the airline's pet travel policy ahead of time. Focus on these key points:

1. Weight and size restrictions for pets and carriers.

2. Booking requirements and procedures for travelling with pets.

3. Health and vaccination requirements.

4. Additional fees and charges associated with pet travel.

5. Any specific documentation or forms needed for pet transport.

These details make sure your pet travels smoothly and follows the rules. If you're short on time to handle it all, Global Paws can walk you through the whole process.

2. Airport Arrival: Check-In and Procedures

Arrive early at the airport for pet check-in and inform the airline representative that your pet is travelling as excess baggage. Other things you have to consider include:

1. Documentation Verification

2. Container Inspection

3. Weighing and Payment

If you're unsure about these procedures, we'll guide you through them so you can travel worry-free.

3. Bonus Tip!

Pet Carrier Regulations

Most airlines requires IATA-compliant crates for smooth boarding that meets airline and airport standards. You can get the crate from us at Petisan The Mills.

In Cabin

Travelling with your furry friend by your side can be a joy!

But navigating airport procedures with a pet travelling in the cabin requires a different approach than excess baggage.

Here's your guide to a smooth and stress-free journey for both of you:

1. Preparation for Takeoff: Before You Arrive

Research & Reservations

Airlines have specific size and weight restrictions for in-cabin pets. It must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you; paying close attention to size & weight limits, fees, availability and booking a pet-friendly flight beforehand.

You can skip all of these by using our services. Let us take care of everything for you!

2. Airport Arrival: Check-In and Procedures

Please arrive early! Airlines recommend arriving at the airport significantly earlier when travelling with a pet in-cabin. This allows extra time for check-in procedures and any unforeseen delays.

Your pet must go through security screening.

Proceed to the security screening area with your dog and its travel crate. Don’t panic! Take a deep breath, everything is alright, pet lovers. Be prepared to remove your dog from its carrier for security screening, and follow airport staff's instructions.

3. Boarding the Plane

When boarding begins, follow airline staff instructions regarding pet boarding. Ensure your dog is securely confined in its carrier and prepared for the journey. For comfortable onboard, bring all these stuffs with you:

• Small amount of food and water

• Favourite blanket

• Pack leak-proof waste bags

• Disposable wipes

Overcoming Challenges: Dealing with Common Concerns and Issues

Embarking on a journey taking a dog on a plane can pose challenges that require careful consideration and preparation. We have solutions to help you and your furry friend overcome common concerns and ensure a smooth travel experience. Check this out!

1. Anxiety Management

It's common for dogs to feel anxious when they travel by plane, as they encounter unfamiliar surroundings and noises. To help calm your dog during travel, consider using natural remedies or pheromone products if needed.

Make sure your pets get used to their crates before you fly with them. Taking your time to crate train them properly is really important, but if you're short on time, trust Global Paws. We're experienced professionals who can handle it for you with care and expertise.

2. Motion Sickness

Some dogs might feel queasy when flying, which can make them uncomfortable and anxious. To help prevent motion sickness, make sure their last meal is at least four hours before the flight and consists of their usual food, just in smaller amounts. 

It’s also important to ensure they have access to fresh air and good ventilation during the trip. And don’t hesitate to talk to your vet about safe and effective medications or supplements if needed.

3. Adjusting to New Environments

When you and your furry friend land in your new spot, they might need a second to get their bearings—it's all about that adjustment phase. Here's the game plan:

• Take it slow: Let your pup check out their new digs on their terms. No rush; just let them sniff around and get the lay of the land.

• Be their cheerleader (positive reinforcement): Stick by their side to give them more confidence. A little 'Good boy!' or 'You got this, girl!' can go a long way.

• Keep it familiar: Bringing along their favourite blanket or toy can be comforting. It's like having a piece of home with them, which can help smoothen out those rough edges.

4. Temperature Regulation

Typically, most airline stations provide air-conditioned facilities for pets and transport them in and out of those stations. However, if a station lacks these facilities, there may be restrictions on pet transport during hot months.

No need to worry about temperature because most flights that transport pets globally have controlled environments onboard. Your pet only deals with outdoor temperatures briefly during boarding and landing on the tarmac.

For manifest cargo, pets are often moved straight from the storage area to the plane in air-conditioned vans. They only face outdoor temps briefly during loading, which takes less than 30 minutes.

That’s why it’s important that your dog’s travel crate has good ventilation and protection from outside temperatures. You might want to use cooling mats or blankets and make sure there’s a water bottle dispenser in the crate to help keep your dog’s temperature in check during travel.

Following these steps and remaining attentive to your dog's needs, you can confidently take a dog on a plane and ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience for you and your furry companion.

For more helpful information like this, visit our website now!