How to Fly a Dog Safely in an Airplane's Cargo Section

If your only option is to transport your dog by plane and he is too large to fit under your seat, the only other alternative is the plane's pressurized, temperature controlled cargo compartment. Although it will likely be stressful for both you and your dog, there are some important measures to take to help ensure he arrives at his destination safely and as comfortably as possible.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Health Certificate
• USDA-approved Shipping Crate
• Collar
• ID Tags
• Dog Food
• Water

1. Take your dog to the veterinarian for a check-up within 10 days of departure. Make sure that all vaccinations are current and obtain a health certificate to provide the airline.

2. Purchase a USDA-approved shipping crate that is large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around. Also, test to see if the crate is sturdy enough and the door closes securely. These can be purchased at many pet supply stores and airlines.

3. Line the bottom of the crate with a type of bedding that will absorb accidents. Securely fasten at least one food cup and one water cup to the crate (avoid snap-on ones that have a tendency to come off). Make sure to include your dog's favorite toy.

4. Write the words “Live Animal” in large visible letters on top and every side of the crate, and draw easy to read arrows to indicate the upright position of the crate. Also include your name, address, phone number, your dog’s name, destination, and whether or not you will be on the flight (if not, specify who will be picking your pet up). Attach a current photo of your dog to the top of the crate as well, and keep one in your wallet in case your dog escapes.

5. The night before the flight, freeze a small bowl of water to put in the crate (so it won't spill during loading and will melt by the time your dog is thirsty). Also, tape a clear bag of dry food outside the crate, so that airline personnel will be able to feed your dog if it’s a long-distance flight, layover or in case of a delay.

6. Check with the airline in advance as to where and when your dog can be picked up once the flight arrives.

7. Make sure your pet is wearing a secure collar with an updated ID tag, and also include destination information. Make sure the collar isn’t too tight.

8. When you check your dog in, be sure the door of the crate is unlocked so that airline personnel can open it in case of an emergency.

9. Alert as many airline employees as possible at the terminal and on the plane that your dog is traveling in the cargo hold. Most will appreciate you telling them and be happy to keep an eye out.

Tips & Warnings

• Book a direct flight whenever possible. This will decrease the amount of time your dog is left on the runway, which is especially important during extreme weather conditions.
• If the plane is delayed, or you have any other concerns about your dog, don’t hesitate to ask airline personnel to check on him. Sometimes removing him from cargo and deplaning may be necessary.
• Certain airlines restrict specific breeds (such as pit bulls) from traveling in cargo, as well as snub-nose breeds that are prone to respiratory problems, such as bulldogs and pugs. Certain airlines accept snub-nose breeds if it's below a certain temperature.
• Airlines prohibit any animal from flying if the weather is forecasted to be above a certain temperature (normally 85 degrees F) at any point on the itinerary. Animals are automatically restricted from flying out of specific cities during periods when the temperature consistently remains above 85 degrees F.
• Tranquilizing your dog is generally not recommended, because it can hamper breathing. Always check with your veterinarian first.
• Don't open your dog's crate to pet her upon departure or arrival. Dogs tend to bolt out as soon as the door opens and you don't want her loose in the airport.
• The ASPCA doesn’t recommend flying dogs in cargo, unless it is unavoidable.

Resources

• flypets.com
• mightypets.com

[MaryDaly]

on 12/24/2007 Hi K9training. I tried going to the website you listed but it doesn't seem to be working. There's another website for the Dogtravel Company that is live and they are flying with dogs in the cabin of planes. They also have dog friendly trains and vacation packages and lots more stuff in their online store

http://www.dogtravelcompany.net

[diggitydogg]

on 7/30/2007 That's great to know, because in the past airlines haven't been very animal friendly. It's good to see that they are making vast improvements and that flying your dog during the summer isn't out of the question.

[melmkeshlear]

on 7/30/2007 Continental airlines flys animals all yr round because they provide air conditioned and heated areas as well as provide a human with all crates that come off of the planes until they to their destination. They have made a serious effort and have moved many of my animals around the country with the same safety in mind as they have for people on their planes.
Animals that have a hard time are sick or unsocialized or to young to be flown. Socialized , healthy animals do well. Also, the most direct flights are the best. It also helps to call the destination airport and ask them to give the stop over a call to make sure the animal is doing well if there is a change in planes. This airlines has been wonderful to me and my dogs. They have explained it to me that they have a separate cargo area for the animals and that area receives the same air and heat as the cabins above. MELK

[diggitydogg]

on 7/7/2007 That's a wonderful option and great to know about!

[k9training]

on 7/7/2007 There is actually another option to checking your dog in cargo! The Dog Travel Company offers in-cabin, crateless flying for dogs of all sizes! They are a travel company for dogs & their human companions and not a commercial carrier, so they don't limit the number of dogs in the cabin, and dogs actually get their own seat, right next to their owners!.

They fly domestically and internationally! To find out more visit http://www.dogtravelco.com