Ensuring Your Pet's Safety and Comfort During Air Travel

Apr 7
23:37

2024

Dorothy Yamich

Dorothy Yamich

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Traveling by air with your pet has become increasingly common, and airlines are accommodating this trend by allowing small pets to accompany their owners in the cabin for a fee, provided they are housed in an FAA-approved pet carrier. This article delves into the essential steps pet owners should take to ensure their furry companions remain safe and healthy during their journey through the skies.

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Preparing for Your Flight

When planning to travel with your pet,Ensuring Your Pet's Safety and Comfort During Air Travel Articles early preparation is key. Book your flight well in advance and inform the airline that you will be bringing a pet. Airlines have restrictions on the number of pets allowed per flight, and some do not permit pets on international flights. Always reconfirm your booking the day before departure, or 72 hours in advance for international travel.

Veterinary Check-Up and Health Documentation

Before embarking on your trip, schedule a veterinary check-up to ensure your pet is fit for air travel. Obtain a health certificate and ensure all vaccinations, including rabies, are up to date. Carry a copy of your pet's medical records, including any allergies, chronic conditions, and medications.

Identification and Microchipping

Microchipping your pet increases the chances of a reunion if they get lost. Update your pet's identification tag with your current contact information and consider adding a temporary tag with the address and phone number of your destination. Carry a recent photo of your pet to assist in identification if needed.

Traveling with Larger Pets

For pets too large to fit under the seat, the cargo hold is the only option, but this can be stressful and potentially harmful. The American Veterinary Medical Association discourages sedating pets for air travel, as it can interfere with their ability to regulate body temperature. Consider alternative arrangements, such as leaving your pet with a trusted friend or pet sitting service.

Choosing the Right Pet Carrier

For those seeking a top-tier pet carrier, the Sherpa On Wheels is an FAA-approved option that offers luxury and comfort. It features convenient access points, mesh panels for ventilation, recessed wheels, and a detachable handle and shoulder strap.

Additional Resources

For more information on traveling with pets, visit reputable websites such as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

Interesting Statistics and Facts

  • According to the American Pet Products Association, in 2021, 19% of pet owners took their pets with them when traveling for at least two nights, up from 14% in 2016.
  • The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association reported that approximately 2 million pets and other live animals are transported by air every year in the United States.
  • A survey by the American Automobile Association revealed that over 80% of pet owners travel with their pets on vacations in the United States.

These statistics highlight the growing trend of pet travel and the importance of ensuring pets' safety and comfort during their journeys.

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