Five tips for flying with your dog in a cabin
Dogs are our best friends and deserve the ultimate treatment. So, before we decide to fly with them, we have to make sure we are fully prepared. Let’s go through our checklist of 5 tips for flying with your dog in a cabin.
Choose the appropriate travel bag
Leo, our Pomeranian, is a world traveler. He has flown with us to many destinations, and he is the perfect travel companion. We know that choosing the appropriate travel carrier for air travel with your pooch is everything. The bag needs to be comfortable, spacious, fashionable, and airline-approved. We have two recommendations for you.Â
The first one is The Sherpa Official, Delta Airlines Travel Bag. Sherpa is airline-approved. It features mesh windows for ventilation and side and top entry with locking zippers. It also has roll-down flaps for privacy, which is excellent. This travel bag is padded and adjustable, and it has a carrying and luggage strap. And it is airline-approved.
The second is the Wild One Travel Pet Carrier. This stylish yet functional bag features breathable mesh walls and a dual-use leash/shoulder strap. It also has an interior cushion that folds out to become a bed. This pet carrier offers multiple zippers and pockets that give plenty of space for your doggo’s essentials and accessories. The Wild One is also airline-approved.
Familiriaze your dog with his travel bag
Some dogs are okay with traveling in their travel bag, some not so much. Before your flight, the key is to familiarise your pooch with the carrier. First, allow them to sniff it; they are curious little creatures, aren’t they? They must understand that the travel carrier is not a giant bag, that they have to be stuffed in on the day of the trip. Second, associate the bag with something they love to do. When home, place them slowly in it and reward them. Use reassuring speech and, of course, a treat. Repeat that multiple times a day, a couple of days before the trip. You can also use the bag to take them to the park or on a playdate/doggy daycare. They will be at ease when you arrive there, knowing that the bag takes them to places they love.
Embarking and 30 000 FT above sea level
At the airport
Your pooch feels familiar with the bag now, but what about crowded airports and airplanes? Don’t worry. Most airports allow the doggies to walk freely (not in the bag). However, make sure to know where your pooch is at all times. Have them either on a leash or in your hands. This way, they will not wander around or be scared. Avoid crowds as much as you can and stroll. Your dog will need time to adjust to the new environment.
Boarding the plane
After take off
Every now and then, make sure you check on your pooch when you take off. Reassure your dog, open the bag a little and give your dog some water. Wild One is pretty great since it opens entirely on the side. Just open the side pocket fully, place the water bottle in front of your dog without taking your dog out of the carrier, and you are set. The rule states your pet cannot be taken out of the bag during the flight, except for water. You cannot hold your dog on your lap, nor place him on the seat next to you, and most certainly cannot let him run around the cabin. Be prepared to sign a document when checking in, and know that every airline is very strict about these rules.
Time to disembark
Remove your pooch immediately from his bag after disembarking. Personally, I take Leo out of the bag as soon as my feet are no longer on the air bridge. Find a quieter area, make sure they are okay, and shower them with kisses. Give them treats and water. Run to the pet relief area; most airports have one. If transferring flights, make sure they go potty, have drank water, and eat. They are okay, and they feel safe.
Don't forget the essentials
Check out our Shop Page for more pet essentials.Â
Have you ever flown with your dog in a cabin? Please let us know in the comments below. We really hope you will find this checklist useful, the next time you decide to go on an adventure with your furry friend.Â
