Your pet is your friend, and you want to take them with you everywhere you go. However, when it comes to flying, this can be a little complicated since there are many factors that you need to keep in mind. Getting all the required documents and ensuring you arrange your pet’s reservation can be overwhelming and a scary experience for most people.
Fortunately, you can incorporate many tricks and tips to make flying with your pet more memorable and smooth as possible. This article will explore simple tips for flying with your pet.
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Consult with your vet
Before flying with your pet, the first and crucial step is consulting your vet for a check-up and guidance on things you need to know. The veterinarian will check on your pet to ensure they are in good health to fly. It’s crucial to inform your vet about your travel plans and how long the flights might take to ensure they guide you appropriately. Furthermore, you must ensure that your pet’s information is up-to-date with your vet, including your microchip information and pertinent medical history. If your pet is cleared for travel, you need to have their record on your phone and at least a recent photo of your pet.
You Will also need to go for a second appointment close to the date of departure with the state’s veterinarian to get the certificate of veterinary inspection that clears your pet for flying.
Get the right food
If you are travelling out of state, you must research a reputable veterinarian in the area that might help care for your pet. The vet will advise you on foods such as the best bully sticks for dogs, or the best cat foods etc so that your pet does not develop any irritation or illness while travelling. Knowing what you can and cannot give your pet during the travel will help ensure your pet is in good health and comfortable during the flight. You need to check with the airline since some might require you to issue a pet fitness certificate within ten days of your flight.
Book in advance
It’s crucial to note that most airlines have a restricted number of pets per flight. If you book late, you might be denied the chance to travel with your pet or might require you to book another flight. Instead of all this hassle, ensure you book early to fly on your desired flight. This will also help you avoid delays when travelling internationally or with cargo since the requirements might take months to process.
Prepare your pet in advance for the flight
If you haven’t travelled with your pet before, it will need time to get used to. Preparing your pet will help reduce stress-related complications and ensure your pet adjusts and relaxes during the flight. A good way is to purchase a kennel or crate in advance and teach your pet to get used to being in that space. When getting a crate or a kennel, look for one compliant with the International Air Transport Association. Help your pet gain a positive association with the kennel by putting its bed and toys inside.
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Plan for your pet’s bathroom needs
Your pet may have the need to help themselves and you may not be in control of when this may happen, therefore, it is best to bring a tiny trash bag or potty pad. During a layover, you can then take your dog to the stall or family restroom and dispose of the trash bag or the potty pad. When you prepare yourself this way, you avoid having to inconvenience people with the smell of your pets’ waste.
Most airports today have areas where pets can relieve themselves and you can map out one that is close to the terminal and you can take a potty break there during a layover. You can also ask for assistance from the staff if you can’t seem to find a solution. The staff will be better placed to guide you on where you can handle your pet’s needs.
Since most locations are usually on astroturf and indoors, you may find that your pet may refuse to go. In such a case a potty pad will be useful when your pet chooses to let go outside the relief area.
Avoid feeding your pet before your flight to avoid stomach discomfort while in the air. When you consider feeding times you are also able to plan your pet’s bathroom breaks better.
Are you ready to be flying with your pets?
Now flying with your pet has been made easy when following the above guideline. You must ensure you shop for the best foods for your pet to ensure it’s comfortable and complete during the travel.
