Do’s and Don’ts for Booking Airline Tickets for Dogs
Traveling with your furry friend can be exciting, but it can also be stressful if you are not aware of the do’s and don’ts of booking airline tickets for your furry friend. When making plans to fly with your beloved animal, there are essential things you need to know to ensure safe and comfortable travel. In this blog post, we will cover the do’s and don’ts of booking airline tickets for dogs.
The Do’s of Booking Airline Tickets for Dogs
1. Research Airlines Pet Travel Policies
The first step in booking an airline ticket for your furry friend is to research the airline’s pet travel policies. Not all airlines accept pets, and those that do may have restrictions on the size, breed, and type of animal. Additionally, some airlines only allow pets in the cabin, while others require pets to travel in the cargo hold. Conduct thorough research on different airlines and choose the best fit for you and your pet.
2. Inform Airlines About Your Pet in Advance
It’s important to inform the airline that you will be traveling with your pet when booking your ticket. This will allow the airline to arrange for the appropriate accommodations and ensure that your pet is properly secured and cared for. You may be required to fill out a pet travel form, so ensure that all information provided about your pet is accurate.
3. Prepare Your Pet for Air Travel
Air travel can be stressful for pets. Therefore, it’s important to prepare your pet in advance. Consider investing in a crate that is spacious enough for your pet and ensure that your pet is comfortable with the crate before traveling. Additionally, ensure that your pet is updated on all necessary vaccinations and have your pet checked by a veterinarian before flying.
4. Ensure Your Pet Has Identification
Ensure your pet has proper identification such as a collar, tags, and microchip. In case of any accidents or uncertainties, proper identification will enable quick reunification with your pet.
The Don’ts of Booking Airline Tickets for Dogs
1. Don’t Feed Your Pet Before Flying
Feeding your pet before flying can cause discomfort during the flight, which may lead to vomiting or diarrhea. Avoid feeding your pet too close to the flight time, instead feed them well in advance of traveling.
2. Don’t Sedate Your Pet
To ensure the safety of your pet, avoid sedating your pet when flying. Sedation can cause complications such as respiratory and cardiovascular problems that may pose a risk to your pet’s health.
3. Don’t Ignore Your Pet’s Comfort
Ensure that your pet is comfortable during the flight. For instance, carry essential items such as a blanket, toys, and a leash. Additionally, ensure that the crate is spacious enough, has proper ventilation and temperature control.
Conclusion
Booking airline tickets for your furry friend can be a daunting task. However, adhering to the do’s and don’ts outlined above can make the travel experience safer and comfortable for you and your pet. Remember to research airline pet travel policies, inform airlines in advance about your pet, prepare your pet for air travel, and ensure they have proper identification while avoiding feeding, sedating and ignoring your pet’s comfort. With these guidelines in mind, you and your pet can safely embark on your travel adventures together.
