Air Travel and Pets

Do you have to travel by air in the near future? If you do, are you a

pet owner who needs to bring your pet along with you? Although most of

us leave our pets at home, you may not want to do so or your purpose for

travel may be to move, as opposed to taking a fun filled vacation.

Regardless of your reasons for wanting or needing to travel with your

pet or pets, there are a number of important points that you will need

to keep in mind.

 


The first step in traveling with a pet is to make sure that you can do

so. Although a good number of airlines will allow pets on their planes,

not all will. You may be in a predicament if you plan to depart from a

small airport with only one or two airlines. If they do not accept pets

or if their rules and restrictions are too much for you to handle, you

will want to examine other nearby airports, especially those that are

larger in size.



When traveling by air with your pet or pets, it is important to remember

that you will be charged an additional fee. Unfortunately, many first

time pet travelers believe that they can use their pets and their pet

carriers to count towards as a carry-on bag or a checked bag. This

isn't how it works though. You will, almost always, be charged an extra

fee for traveling with a pet. This extra fee will likely depend on the

airline in question and well as your pet's location, such as in the

cabin or in the baggage compartment.



That leads to another important point. Even with some of the airlines

that allow pets, like cats and dogs, aboard their flights, not all allow

pets to be in the cabin with other passengers. This is particularly

common on small planes where allergies may be a big concern. If you

cannot part with your pet, be sure to search for an airline that will

allow you to keep him or her in the cabin with you. With that said,

remember that the size of your pet will also play a huge factor in your

options.



Regardless of where your pet is stored for the plane ride, you will need

to have a pet carrier or crate for them. Many airlines have specific

rules and restrictions on what type can be used. Resections often

include materials used, as well as size. Most will provide you with

that information when asked. Speaking of pet crates and carriers, it is

important to make sure that you give your pet enough room to stand and

move around a little bit. In fact, most airlines will refuse to

transport pets that they feel are unsafe from small pet crates and

carriers.



It is also important to make sure that you get your pet checked by their

vet. You will want to make sure that your pet has all required

vaccinations and that they are fit for travel. Also, all airlines

require that you receive a health certificate, which will state that

your pet is healthy and safe for travel.



The above mentioned points are just a few of the many that you will want

to take into consideration when traveling with a pet. Added tips

include booking direct flights, making sure your pet's collar is marked

with the proper identification, as well as their pet carrier.



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