Getting your dog on an airplane can be quite inconvenient and complicated. He’s probably not going to be scanned for hidden toys he’s not allowed to bring on board, but he will be limited by his age, size, health, breed, destination of your journey or numerous other, often arbitrary factors.
First things first. Check with your airline company if your dog is qualified to fly. Smaller dogs may accompany passengers in the cabin, while larger dogs must travel with the checked baggage in the hold. Some airlines require a health certificate for any traveling pet, whatever the way he flies.
Don’t forget to ask about the charges for a cabin pet, and be prepared for long discussions and sometimes maybe even changes in your plans.
Make sure your pet’s carrier will fit under the seat in front of you. Approximately 19-by-13-by-9 inches. Remember that your pet will not be allowed out of his carrier at any time during the flight.
You also have homework. Before you leave, find out how long before flight time should you check in with a pet, and where. It could be at the curb, at the counter or maybe at another terminal. Every minute adds to the time he has to spend in his crate. If you send food and water, attached to the outside of the crate, who will give it to him? Also, how will you pick up your pet? Will he be sent to a separate terminal and will they bring him to you on a cart or just put him on the carousel?
Ask your airline what breeds they allow. Some will not accept short-faced dogs such as pugs, bulldogs and boxers, as they may have respiratory problems while flying.
And take out pet insurance for the flight. This is important. Many animals have died, escaped or been stolen during air travel.
Remember, flying a pet can be pretty expansive and traumatizing for your pet. So, before you decide to take your pooch with you, consider carefully whether your pet travels for his pleasure and benefit, or just for yours.