Flying Safely with Your Pet
If you are taking your pet cat or dog on a plane there are a selection of issues to think about carefully prior to going to the airport. It may be disturbing for both yourself and your pet so ensure you are fully prepared in advance. Airways have particular laws concerning cargo storage or carry-on for your pet and you should buy airline accredited pet carriers which fit these regulations. For carry-on your pet carrier should be soft sided and under 23″ x 13″ x 9″ with two sides mesh ventilated. This is quite small so you’ll only be able to take a small cat or dog into the cabin with you. Be very cautious that you don’t go over this size as the airlines are very strict and can refuse to permit you to board if your pet carrier is bigger than regulations permit.
Most airways have a limit to how many pets allowed within the cabin so make sure you tell them when you make your reservation. Airways may ask for a certificate of health so make sure you receive one from your vet to declare both the age and health of your pet.
Does enhanced safety in the US pose any issues?
The enhanced security in now in force at airports is not an issue when taking your pet on a flight. Ask to be allowed to walk with your pet through the metal detector. If this isn’t allowed you may be taken to a secondary place for the security check. You be required to remove your pet from the pet carrier in any case so that the carrier can be X-Rayed.
What are the regulations for carrying a pet in the cargo hold?
If your pet is simply too large to take as carry-on then he is going to need to be placed in the cargo hold. Before you fly along with your pet make sure you examine the rules particular to your airline. The following is for American Airlines but other airlines have related requirements. Kennels must be large enough for your pet to have the ability to turn round and lie comfortably. They should be well made, inflexible (not collapsible) with a container for water that can be accessed from the outside of the kennel. This is in case there are flight delays. The weight of the kennel together with your pet inside must be a hundred lbs or less and has to be within the measurements 40″ x 27″ x 53″. Plastic ties should be provided by the airline to be connected to the kennel corners to secure it when it is on board.
Do I need a health certificate?
For travel throughout the US most airways don’t require a health certificate but most state authorities do require this so be sure to take a look at the individual states requirements prior to flying. Rabies vaccination proof is a requirement for all states for canines that are three months or older and some also it for cats as well. If you are flying outside your country laws are much stricter and you have to to scrutinise your destination country’s regulations carefully. If certification for rabies is not in order for instance you may be required to put your pet in quarantine in your destination country which may be very distressing on your pet and really expensive. Even if you don’t need a heath certificate to fly with your pet, it is a good idea to allow checked over by a vet as there are some conditions such as respiratory or heart issues which may lead to distress or even death when flying at high altitudes.
What other certifications do I need?
Within the US you will have to provide a written signed assertion that you’ve fed your pet a minimum of 4 hours before the flight. This is a Federal regulation and has to be fastened to the kennel securely with your signature and the time you signed. You also needs to attach directions for food and water for a 24 period.
Should I tranquilise on my pet?
Most airlines don’t advocate tranquilising your pet before flying as they could affect breathing and diminish your pets ability to adjust to changes in temperature. If you are worried about your pet staying calm in flight discuss it together with your veterinarian.
How should I prepare my pet before the flight?
Introduce your pet to his kennel or carrier several weeks before the flight so that he’s used to it and will not panic when you place him in it for ready for the flight. Exercise him well so that he’s tired which will help him to remain calm. Arrive at the airport in sufficient time to take him out to relieve himself (remembering to bring a cleanup bag of course).
Conclusion
1000’s of pets travel safely on airlines on daily basis so, once you have organized your pet and his carrier or kennel appropriately, you can be confident he is being looked after and that the airline will keep him safe and secure. Some airlines even give your pet flight miles towards his next flight! Relax and enjoy your flight and have a favorite treat ready for him when you collect him at the end of flight.
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Tags: airline approved pet carriers, flying with your pet, Pet Carriers