Has anyone flown with their dog on a plane? We will be taking our 4 month old mix with us on a 5 hour flight. He's supposed to stay in the carrier under the seat in front of us for the duration of the flight. If anyone has flown with their dog, what was the experience like? Thanks.

 

Depending on the dog's personality and if he used to traveling in the car with you, you might run this by the vet. You might need to give him something to calm his nerves.

Make sure you use the proper carrying case as required by the airline(s) you will be flying. A friend told me that metal chain leashes were no longer allowed, so you might want to followup on that.

This link provides additional info: http://www.la.essortment.com/dogstravelairl_rjea.htm

 

Many states and airlines may require a health certificate to fly your pup with you. Basically a pricey piece of paper ($50 per pet in our area) saying the pet is healthy and up to date on all shots. Be sure to do this in advance to ensure there are no issues that need to be addressed at the last minute.

Your vet may provide you with a mild tranquilizer to use if your pup gets really upset. It's best to prep your puppy by taking him or her on lots of car rides and exposing him or her to lots of new environments so there aren't any nasty surprises for you or your dog.

 

One thing no one else mentioned is that the underseat area is really small. How big a *mix* is your pup? It may be that he has to fly in the cargo hold...if that is the case, be sure to check that it is pressurized and climate controled.

Another thing to remind you is, do not feed within about 4-6 hours of the flight, and only allow small amounts of water about 2 hours prior. At least that is the schedule I have always used as it is what my former Vet recommends.

 

Our little "Mix" is about 6 pounds. We introduced him to the soft carrier about 2 weeks ago. He took to it right away and now sleeps in it. Now we'll have to take him for a few rides in the car while zipped up in the carrier to see how he takes to it. Normally, he sits on our lap and looks out the windows.

Delta don't have any document requirements. But they do want $75 for flying our pup in the cabin each way.

Tennessee may want to see that he's up on rabies shot. He gets one before we fly and the certificate comes with the shot.

Good idea about no food 4-6 hours before flying. Can't have peeing and pooping in the airplane or at the airport. It's going to be about 10 hours from when we leave home until we get into Tennessee with one layover. Plan to take training pads along to see if he will do his numbers on them at the airport restrooms. Maybe we'll luck out and there will be a patch of grass.