Start preparing Your Doggie
Not less than 30 days prior to taking your dogs on planes.
Do you possess the right carrier for your dog? Make certain the carrier is sufficiently big for your dog and that it is airline-approved. Both soft-sided as well as hard-sided carriers can be purchased, but soft-sided are more suitable for carry-on which enables it to fit below seats better.
To lessen the stress on your dog, get them accustomed to the carrier simply by placing them within it for short stays in the beginning, then longer stays as your trip nears. Put anything recognizable to the dog in the carrier which has your scent on it.
Within Ten days of your journey
Plan a visit to the veterinarian inside of 10 days of your journey to make sure they are fit for the trip. Tell your vet of your travel plans so they are able tell you of any issues they've got. Ask a veterinarian to issue a wellness document for your dog. The health certificates ordinarily must be dated within Ten days of your departure. Carry the certificate on your person at all times as it may be expected at various situations.
Take your canine friend in for proper grooming. Is it a warm time of the year? If applicable, cut it's hair. Are it's toenails needing shaping?
The day of travel
Have everything packed and leave in plenty of time. Remember that it will take more time as compared to traveling on your own. Aside from small amounts of water, do not give food to your dog for a number of hours before the trip. If you're taking your dog on the plane, bring a portable water dish so that you can provide him/her small quantities of water throughout the trip.
Booking the Flight(s)
Reserve direct flights whenever you can. If you need to book a travel plan with a layover, make sure the layover is long enough for you to exit the secured area and go outside the airport and allow your dog have a brief walk (as well as relieve itself!) Some airports have places that make this a breeze, but others are more difficult. In any case, make sure to clean up after them. The longer layover is always a hassle, but your doggie will appreciate the chance to stretch its legs! Whenever booking, it's also a good idea to make an effort to reserve non-peak flights. They are almost always much less crowded - this means more space within the cabin and less stress on your pet.
If traveling during hotter or cooler months, choose flights and air carriers that will allow for the temperature extremes. Check air carrier guidelines for your airline's specifications. Note that snub-nosed dogs tend to be especially vulnerable to heat stroke and some airlines will not likely permit them on their flights during warmer months - or even at all.
Tony B Lumpkin III is an executive living in Austin, Texas. He has over 20 years of experience traveling with dogs on planes, in cars, and numerous hotels. He contributes to a popular website devoted to dog travel. For more valuable doggie travel tips, please visit the website => http://www.doggietravelinfo.com/.