With holiday travel right around the corner, we wanted to pass along these tips from Trupanion for air travel with dogs and cats. (Along with these tips, we’d recommend booking a non-stop flight whenever possible to make the trip easier on both you and your dog and to minimize chances for your dog to get lost if he’s not traveling in the cabin with you.)
- Confirm your flight arrangements the day before you leave to ensure there have been no unexpected flight changes.
- Mark the kennel or travel bag with your pet’s name and your phone number.
- If your pet will be traveling with you in the cabin, arrange to check in as late as possible to reduce the amount of time your pet will have to spend in transit.
- Arrive at the airport early, exercise your pet, and personally place him or her in the crate or bag they will be traveling in.
- Be aware of heightened security measures by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Present the animal to the officers at the security checkpoint. If possible, place the carrier on the X-Ray machine and walk your pet with you through the metal detector.
- When boarding the plane, let the flight attendant know that your pet is either with you under the seat, or in the cargo hold.
- Pick up the pet promptly upon arrival at your destination.
- While most airlines have similar rules regarding traveling with pets, each airline has a few specific regulations, so always check with your airline directly.
Trupanion also reminds pet owners to pack for their pet as well as themselves. Include food, favorite toys and treats, dishes, beds, leashes, and any other essentials your pet uses on a day-to-day basis.
“While we never want to think of our pet becoming lost during holiday travel, it’s also a good idea to plan for it in case it happens,” says Darren DeFeo, Senior Vice President of E-Commerce at Trupanion.
DeFeo advises to make sure the pet wears identification on its collar, and to bring along a recent photo to show people if the pet goes missing.
Following a few simple rules, allowing for plenty of time, and staying calm will ensure that everyone arrives at their destination happy and healthy.
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