Sometimes, I want to give my dog a special treat and realize that I don’t have the deciding power on such desires. For instance, I have always wanted to recreate some movie scenes where dogs seat beside their owners in a cabin.
Hence, this type of quest made me decide to get a seat for my dog on a flight to Denmark. Can I buy a seat for my dog on an airplane? The answer I got left me wondering why dogs should not have the same privilege as humans.
Most airlines have rules that decide where you have to keep your dog during your flight. If you have a large breed like my Bull Mastiff, you need to continue reading.
Tips for Flying with Large Breeds
Here are some tips you should keep in mind while planning on traveling with a large breed:
Choose the right crate
Ensure that you pick the correct crate for your dog. Different airlines have different rules and regulations and you must get familiar with these rules.
Some airlines may require that the crates have a certain door mechanism and some may not allow crates that have been secured using plastic screws.
Below are some of the crate requirements:
- The carrier has to be a hard crate
- The carrier should be spacious enough to allow your dog to stand, lie down and turn around freely
- The carrier should have LIVE ANIMAL boldly printed on the crate
- The carrier must have an easy access to provide food and water for your dog
- The door of the carrier must be firmly secured not locked in the case where Airline staff may need to get the animal
- The bottom of the carrier should be lined with puppy training pads or newspaper to help soak up spilled water or pee while your dog is traveling in the crate.
In constructing crates, many manufacturers may advertise or tag their crates as IATA-approved crates. However, since the rules and regulations differ among airlines, the crates may not be suitable for use in all airlines.
Before getting a travel crate for your dog, make sure you compare the dimension, the materials, the locking mechanisms, and other important factors, which are considered by the airline.
Take your dog to the vet
Before traveling with your pet, make sure you take him to the vet for a full medical examination. This can help you know whether your dog is fit to travel or not.
Also, your veterinarian can give you advice based on the behavior and health history of your dog which can come in handy in preparing your dog for the trip.
As airlines require an up-to-date vaccination record, the veterinarian can help with the vaccination requirements.
Choose the fastest route
Many dogs do not enjoy traveling and if they are traveling as cargo, they may be very uncomfortable throughout the trip. As a result, it is important that you choose the fastest route to your destination.
Avoid busy travel periods and do not travel during the hottest and coldest parts of the day if you can.
Confirm any check-in times in advance
Make sure you find where you need to check in because this may be in another part of the airport. Also, enquire about the place you will need to pick up your dog in advance of your arrival.
Acclimating your dog
Acclimating your dog before you leave can greatly reduce stress and anxiety for your dog. You can achieve this by taking your dog to a bus or train station and introducing him to many of the sights and sounds. In addition, you can put them on a bus or a train for a ride.
Pack lots of treats and reinforce positive behavior
While on the trip, I give my dog treats to make my dog comfortable and to make the journey exciting and enjoyable for the dog. You can also carry along their favorite toys and other things that they like.
I often drop familiar bedding inside their crate or something that smells like the dog (and me as well). Creating a secure and safe space for the dog to retreat into during the flight can help reduce anxiety.
Do not sedate your dog
One downside of sedation is the aftereffects it can have on your dog. Sedation can disrupt the normal breathing process of your dog and this can be very dangerous during travel.
Many airlines also have rules strongly preventing sedated dogs from flying in the craft. You can also get an artificial pheromone spray to help reduce anxiety in your dog.
Label the crate
Ensure that you label the crate clearly. Add details of your dog as well as your own details such as your home address and mobile number. Also, take a photograph of the crate and your pet so that the authorities can easily identify your dog if he ever gets missing. Some people can also microchip their dogs for safety purposes.
FAQs
Which airline will let me buy a seat for my dog?
Many airlines do not permit passengers to buy tickets for their dogs. However, there are two airlines that provide tickets for pets. These are Jet Blue Airlines and United Airlines.
According to the regulations set out by Jet Blue Airlines, passengers can only fully have just one dog in the cabin. You are allowed to buy an extra seat next to yours to place your dog carrier.
Can I buy a seat for my dog on an airplane?
Many airlines do not permit passengers to get tickets for their dogs. Instead, dogs are transported as carry-on luggage at a lower fee.
It is important to note that a pet in its carrier is also considered your carry-on bag.
Can dogs have their own seat on a plane?
Many airlines allow you to bring dogs into the cabin. However, only a couple will let you buy a seat for your dog. Most require you to store your dog in a carrier under the seat in front of you. The two exceptions are Jet Blue and United.