Traveling by plane with a dog

The main thing in organizing travel by plane with a dog is preparation. Check the quarantine requirements of the country you are going to fly to. Quarantine can be up to 6 months, which is much longer than what most people have on holidays or vacations.

Travel within the EU is subject to The Pet Travel Scheme, more information can be found at www.Defra.gov.uk.

In the luggage compartment or on hand?

If you have a very small dog, you may be able to carry it into the cabin if your airline of choice allows pet carriers as hand luggage.

However, most dogs usually travel in the luggage compartment. Airlines require a carrier large enough for the dog to stand up and turn around comfortably. Contact your chosen airline for details.

Warn in advance

Be sure to notify the airline several times that you are flying with your pet. It is best to check the airline’s pet policy before booking a ticket. Some airlines do not carry dogs during certain times of the year or even certain times of the day.

Walk your dog before traveling

Before the flight, it is important to walk the dog well so that it does all its business. Place a diaper inside the carrier, as it is very likely that the dog may void his bladder during the trip, even if he usually does not. Flying can be an ordeal and the dog is likely to lose control of his body from fear.

Water and food

There are different opinions as to whether water and food should be left inside the carrier. On the one hand, this makes sense, since the dog may feel thirsty or hungry, especially if the journey is prolonged. On the other hand, water can splash, and then there will be dirt inside.

The presence of water or food can increase the likelihood of a dog going to the toilet in a carrier, and the combination of food and stress can cause stomach upset.

It is possible for a dog to go without water and food for several hours, but if in doubt, ask your veterinarian how best to proceed, and also check the rules of the airline you have chosen.

If you decide to leave water in the carrier, freeze it in ice beforehand – this way there is less chance that it will melt and splash while the carrier is being loaded onto the plane.

Marking

Make sure the carrier is legibly marked on the outside. Cover the label with reflective tape to make it easier to find, and make sure the carrier has your contact details and the dog’s name on it. Believe it or not, it’s better to mark on the carrier where the top is, and where the bottom is!

Attach care instructions to your carrier in case of travel delays. Some airlines allow owners to watch their pets being loaded. Others may notify you when your pet is on board.

Other conditions

If you’re flying with a connecting flight, find out if you can take your dog to the toilet during the transfer.

It is best to sedate your dog for the duration of the flight if possible, but never do so without consulting your veterinarian.