By Alycia Williams
In some cases, our pets tend to be our best friends, and who wouldn’t want their best friend to go on vacation with them? Traveling with your pet can be a real hassle, but if you follow the right travel tips, you can make sure that everything is smooth sailing.
Here seven travel tips for flying with your pet.
1. Do your research: Regulations and fees vary depending on airline and whether your pet flies in the cabin or as checked baggage. Be sure to check an airline’s history of flying animals.
Related Link: Health Tips: How Adopting a Pet Can Help Your Mental Health
2. Consider a pets-only airline: Pet Airways offers climate-controlled cabins outfitted with individual crates, and a flight attendant checks on the animals every 15 minutes. After landing, pets are given a bathroom break, and can be picked up by their owners at the airline’s Pet Lounge at participating airports.
Related Link: Travel Tips During the Pandemic: How to Stay Safe on Planes
3. Pet papers: If you’re traveling outside the country, find out what vaccinations your pet will need and if quarantine is required. Consult the database of animal import requirements for more information.
4. Prepare the carrier: Purchase a kennel that has room for your pet to turn around and stand without hitting its head. If your pet hasn’t traveled before, spend some time getting the animal used to being in the carrier.
5. ID tags: Attach contact information to both your pet’s collar and its carrier. That way if your pet gets lost you will be contacted and no one else can claim your pet.
6. Exercise: Before the flight, play with your cat or take your dog for a walk. The more tired your pet is, the more likely it is to sleep during the trip.
7. Relax: Use lavender oil as an “association scent” to help your pet relax while flying. In the weeks before the flight, put a drop of oil on your hands at feeding times or before walks. Once onboard, the positive association will allow your pet to calm down and remain relaxed.
What are some other travel tips for flying with your pet? Start a conversation in the comments below!
