Pet Travel by Air

Traveling by Air
Air travel is often the most convenient way to get to your destination, but if you plan to take Fluffy on board, you need to be aware of the extra procedures and dangers headed your way.
Here are some tips sent to me by Travel Hacker. Their site can be found at
http://www.airlinecreditcards.com/travelhacker/how-to-travel-with-pets-the-ultimate-guide/

Tips for Safe Pet Air Travel: Visit the Human Society’s website for tips on keeping your pet comfortable and safe during a planet trip.
Stow your pet under the seat in front of you: If your dog or cat is small enough to comfortably fit in a carrier the size of most carry-on items, you may be able to keep your pet under the seat in front of you for the entire plane trip. That way, your furry friend won’t be subjected to riding alone in the back with everyone’s heavy suitcases.


Put identification information everywhere: First, make sure your pet’s ID tags are securely attached to his or her collar. Go ahead and clip another ID tag or luggage tag onto the carrier door, and consider writing your contact information directly on the animal’s carrier to avoid mistakes and theft.
Research companies that specialize in transporting pets: Companies like Pet Air specialize in transporting pets, taking care of everything from booking flights to selling kennels and carriers.


TakeYourPet.com Travel Tips: This guide from TakeYourPet.com suggests trimming your animal’s nails to minimize the injury it can cause to itself, you and other animals or people.


Pack a toy or favorite comfort item in your pet’s carrier: To make the trip more comfortable for your pet, pack a familiar toy or blanket inside your pet’s carrier to ease their anxiety. Rawhides aren’t always a good idea, though, as they can cause upset stomachs.


Bring a photo of your pet: In case you have trouble finding your pet after landing, have a recent photo ready to show airport security and baggage claim attendants to prove you’re the owner and help locate your pet.
Pack pet meds in accordance with TSA carry-on regulations: Make sure you pack your pet’s medications in a TSA-approved system, which requires that liquids and gels 3 oz. or less be packed in a quart-sized plastic zip-top bag. If you have to dump out your pet’s medicine or take a later flight to have time to stick it in your check bags, you could be in for a disaster.


Pack a small bowl for water: Dogs and cats can get dehydrated easily, so bring a small bowl or collapsible container so that your pet has water as soon as you land or retrieve it from the baggage claim.


Be familiar with airline travel restrictions and guidelines: Before booking a flight for your pet, make sure you are prepared to deal with all travel restrictions set forth by the airline. Many airlines like Delta require pets to be at least 8 weeks old, restrict the destinations where pets can fly to, and charge a fee for in-cabin carriers.


Pet Air Travel: Ask-the-Vet.com publishes this guide to taking pets on an airplane, including a list of pet regulations for several major airlines.