Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Taking Small Dogs On Planes - What You Need To Know

Numerous airlines allow for small dogs on planes. Each airline has its own specifications, so it is better to get in touch with the individual air carrier that you'd rather fly. You are able to get a list of the rules or requirements. In just about any situation, it is very important to make reservations for your pet, as the airlines usually have a limit regarding the number of dogs and cats per cabin. Each airline has a toll-free number and website.

You must take your dog to a vet, no more than ten days from your departure date to make sure all the shots are current and to obtain a duplicate of the vaccination records to give the airline ticket agent. At the same time, have the vet make certain your pet is healthy and up to airline travel. Some people believe dogs and cats shouldn't fly due the altitude differences and staying in a carrier for a long time of time;however, a veterinarian will provide you with good advice on this issue.

Your pet also needs to have a collar with name address, and phone number and tags showing evidence of vaccinations. It is also a great idea to have your dog micro-chipped, in case the collar comes off or your pet gets split up from you. The Humane Society, kennels and even pet shelters make use of scanning devices to read the chips that have been implanted. This process is not unpleasant for your dog and isn't prohibitive in terms of price tag. Many times this process has shown to be the real difference in locating your dog or losing him forever.

A carrier is another necessity. Again, they differ from a Sherpa (soft exterior with fleece pad on the inside) to a hard shell dog crate. There should be good ventilation and a durable luggage tag with pets name, address and contact number ( both home and destination).

On the Plane:

Take a container of water and small bowl, as your dog may get thirsty. Drinking water is essential, nevertheless take a small amount of food in a zip-lock baggie. Some attendants will allow you to go ahead and take pet out of your carrier and put him in your lap; however, as far as we know, none of them allow this during meal services, even if it is just drink and pretzels. Also, put one of the dog's preferred toys inside the carrier as, just like children, they really like a familiar item.

Only one more thing prior to taking your small dogs on planes. When heading through security, it is mandatory that you take your dog out of the carrier and proceed through security holding him. That said, be sure to put a leash on the pet in the event he or she gets frightened and leaps out of your arms.



Joseph Santos is a retired executive living in Rockport, Massachusetts. With several decades of experience traveling with small dogs on planes, cars, and even boats. He now contributes to a popular website completely devoted to dog travel. For more important travel tips, please go to his web site => http://www.doggietravelinfo.com/

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