Transport Dog Crates and Air Travel

by: GeraldineDimarco
It is not ideal to travel by air with your dog, but sometimes there is no other option. You'll need to consider transport dog crates, and the key is to make the trip as stress free for your dog as you can.

You've probably heard about dogs becoming injured, lost or even of dogs dying when traveling by airplane. The majority of dog air trips are free from complications of any kind, but you do not want to take any risks when transporting your dog by airplane. Preparation is therefore very important.

Before buying your airline tickets or selecting your transport dog crate, you should call the airline and find out their current rules and regulations in relation to pet travel. The general rules relating to pet travel, governed by federal regulations, state that your dog should be no less than 8 weeks old and have been weaned for no less than 5 days before the date of travel.

Small dogs (under 15 pounds) may be able to fit inside small transport dog crates or small pet carriers that will fit under your seat, if you are travelling with your dog. But large dogs must travel in the cargo section of the plane, which has no heat and no air-conditioning. This can be very uncomfortable and scary for your dog.

Some steps you can take to provide your dog with a stress-free airplane trip:

- stop-overs and transfers extend the journey for your dog, so opt for a direct flight wherever you can.

- find out about any delays in your flight schedule before you leave for the airport. You can confirm your flight the day before but it's also a good idea to call the airport just before you are due to leave as well, to double check whether the flight is scheduled to take off on time.

- take your dog for a walk shortly before you leave for the airport.

- check with your vet as to feeding recommendations for your dog. Most vets will recommend that your dog travel on an empty stomach. For long flights, your dog will need to be fed, and your vet will advise you what is appropriate, taking into account your dog's age, size and regular diet.

- ensure that plenty of water will be available to your dog during the flight to prevent dehydration.

- it's good practise to plan to arrive early at the airport. This is especially important when you're traveling with a pet, as there are more things that can hold you up.

- if you are leaving from a destination that's close to the airport, make sure your dog is given an opportunity to toilet just before you leave. If you are a distance from the airport, wait until you arrive at the airport before toileting your dog. Either way, it's important that your dog has a toilet opportunity to avoid accidents in the transport dog crate during the trip.

- get ready for your flight before you leave for the airport. Take magazines or reading material and activities for your kids with you so you don't need to spend time shopping at the airport. It's important that you spend all the time you can prior to boarding the plane with your dog. If possible, put your dog into the transport dog crate yourself (as opposed to airport staff doing this) and if it's allowed, take your dog to the gate yourself as well.

- tell your flight attendant as soon as you board the plane that you have a dog in the cargo area.

- make your way to the baggage area as soon as possible after landing, to meet your dog.

About the Author
If you need transport dog crates, you can obtain further info in relation to dog transport and stylish pet carriers at HealthierDogs.com