How to Prepare for Your Dog's First Flight
Many would agree that dogs make the perfect travel companion. They have an adventurous spirit, are natural conversation starters and don’t ask ‘Are we there yet?’ Therefore it makes perfect sense that you’d want to take them on a flight, whether overseas or to a different state within Australia. You want to ensure they feel safe, comfortable, and at ease throughout the trip, especially if it’s their first time on a plane. This requires thoughtful preparation so that everything goes smoothly.
Invest in an Appropriate Travel Carrier
One important thing to keep in mind when flying with your furry companion is that not all airlines are pet-friendly and that pet travel policies can vary widely. This said you want to check the airline’s pet travel policy before booking a flight. However, many airlines can accommodate pet travel on flights, allowing small dogs and puppies to travel in the cabin and larger breeds to travel in the cargo hold. To do so, each pet must be transported in a carrier which complies with the airline’s guidelines for pet containers and is the correct size for your pet.
So when shopping for a puppy travel carrier, you want to make sure the chosen model is accepted by airlines in Australia. This way you can be sure your pet can travel safely and comfortably. Once you buy an airline-approved dog carrier, it’s time to familiarise your pooch with the crate. This can significantly reduce their anxiety before the flight.
It’s no secret that canines thrive on familiarity, so getting to know the carrier before the flight can significantly impact their comfort and behaviour. Introduce the carrier slowly by placing it in a familiar area like your living room and let your pooch explore it at their own pace without forcing them inside. When inside the dog travel crate, your pooch should be able to stand, turn around, and stretch when lying down.
Next, a thoughtfully designed carrier should be sturdy and not collapsible. Pick a durable model made of hard plastic or metal with reinforced sides and doors to withstand handling during travel. Extra features that might be helpful include mesh panels for airflow, multiple entry points for flexibility, wheels for mobility and secure locking mechanisms that cannot be easily opened by dogs.
Make Pet-Friendly Travel Arrangements
Another thing to keep in mind before the flight is to ensure that the places you plan to visit are also pet-friendly. Research and book pet-friendly accommodations, including hotels, vacation rentals, campgrounds, parks, restaurants, and attractions. Additionally, check transportation regulations regarding pet travel if you're taking public transportation.
Pack All the Essentials
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer break, some items are a must-have. Bring along your dog’s favourite food and snacks to avoid stomach upset from sudden dietary changes, water, collapsible or travel-friendly bowls, a leash with a well-fitted collar, waste disposal bags, vaccination records, and travel permits. It's also a good idea to pack a first aid kit for your dog, like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and a dog-safe antihistamine in case of emergencies.
During the Flight
Help Them Feel at Ease
Airline travel can be stressful for dogs, especially when they are transported in the cargo hold or cabin. As a pet parent, it's essential to take steps to ease their anxiety and make the journey as comfortable as possible. Place their favourite blanket or toy in the carrier. Also, consider placing one of your shirts in their crate. Your furry friend will feel more comfortable being around your scent. As already mentioned, dogs thrive on familiarity so scents and objects will provide comfort and a sense of security, reducing stress during the flight.
During the flight, try to remain calm and reassuring. If your puppy is flying in the passenger cabin it must be placed under the seat in front of you. Talk to them in soothing tones to help them relax. Avoid showing anxiety, as pets can sense their owner's emotions.
For cargo travel, where you won't have direct access to your pet during the flight, preparation is key to ensuring their comfort and reducing stress. Get your dog used to the sounds they might encounter in the cargo hold like airplane engine hums, takeoff, and landing noises. Play recordings of these sounds at home to desensitize them. You can also use dog-safe calming sprays or pheromone-infused crate liners to create a soothing environment in the crate.
Still worried about how your pet will travel in the cargo hold? Rest assured, airlines take extra precautions to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort. Pets occupy a special area of the cargo hold of the aeroplane and their crates will be secured to the aircraft to prevent tumbling or movement.
