Air travel with pets made easy

If you love your pet too much to leave it at home when you are happy holidaying and plan to take your pet along, there are certain things you need to keep in mind before setting off. There are different rules concerning pets and you need to enquire well in advance.

Most of the airlines require the pet to be at least 8 weeks old and weaned at least five days prior to flying. Also, to avert any crisis, you need to train your pet and make it exercise, jog and jump a bit before taking off. To protect the other passengers, airlines make sure that they get enough proof regarding the pet’s health and vaccinations. Though different airlines follow different guidelines, a rabies vaccination proof is necessary. You also need to show a health certificate as a proof that your pet won’t harm others. Also, some airlines refuse pets when the weather is extreme, or if it is of a certain breed.

We have seen many cases of people feeling uneasy during take off, and the same applies to pets. Know what your pet wants and how it behaves in a different environment. Since there is not much movement allowed in a plane, your pet might feel suffocated. Make sure the crate or box in which your pet will be placed is ventilated enough to provide breathing space.

Consult your vet and talk to them about your plan, the flight arrangements and facilities provided to your pet. Since airlines charge extra for pets, check different airlines before finalizing on the best one. Check if you can afford it or if it would be better to keep your pet at home with the caretaker.

Know if you can take your pet along with you on board and let it sleep on your lap. Some airlines put the pets in cargo, while others allow small pets to stay with you throughout your journey. Different airlines have different policies. Just the way you wouldn’t like to be disturbed by a pet when you are peacefully sleeping, the others also find it irritating if your best friend sneaks up in front of them or barks loudly. Airlines won’t tolerate this behaviour and you yourself wouldn’t want to give an impression of being someone who is not able to take of their pet. So be considerate.

If you think your pet won’t behave properly in a different place, it’s better to keep it at home. Or if you don’t have an option, try to entertain and keep it busy with food or toys. There are some people who get paranoid on seeing pets, so make sure you don’t disturb or frighten them. And if possible, avoid travelling with pets during holiday seasons and rush hour. This will be a big relief to you as well as your friend.