How to Travel With a Pet Bird by Air

Traveling with your pet bird can be a stressful experience if you do not take the proper measures. By planning, you will can travel by air and land with your feathered friend without any hassles. Here are some tips on traveling with your winged companion.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Travel carrier
• Travel cage
• Travel kit and snacks for bird

1. Measure your bird and your cage. Make sure your bird fits in the regulation pet carrier, which must not measure more than 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches.
2. Determine your pet's comfort level in the cage. Is it calm? Squaking? Shacking? Be sure your bird is comfortable with handling. You may need to reach in the cage in case of emergency or delay. You will also be changing travel vehicles. The bird must be comfortable riding in a vehicle. You must be able to deal with situations that could come up.
3. Book your travel arrangements well in advance. Make sure your airline allows birds. Plan for the stops and connections well ahead of time.
4. Prepare your travel cage. This is different from the travel carrier in that it will be your bird's home away from home while on your trip. Use several layers of newspaper and bowls for food and water that won't tip over.
5. Obtain a health certificate from your veterinarian. Most airlines will require this.
6. Introduce the travel cage and carrier to your bird about a month before your trip. Let it play in the cage and carrier for about an hour per day.
7. Prepare your bird's travel bag. A backpack works great for carrying treats, toys, a first aid kit, paper towels, meals, peanut butter and a blanket to cover the cage to keep the bird quiet on the plane.