If you’re planning on traveling with your dog, it’s important to prepare them for the experience of flying. Flying with a dog can be a daunting process, but with proper planning and preparation, it can be a stress-free experience for both of you.

In this article, we’ll provide you with tips on preparing your dog for flying, including crate training and pre-flight vet check-ups. We’ll also discuss the requirements and restrictions for flying with a dog in cabin and cargo, including size and weight restrictions, types of carriers and crates allowed, temperature and ventilation requirements, and additional fees.

Preparing Your Dog for Flying

Crate Training

Crate training is a crucial aspect of preparing your dog for flying, whether they will be traveling in the cabin or cargo hold. A well-trained dog will feel more comfortable and secure in their crate, and this can help reduce stress and anxiety during the flight.

To crate train your dog, start by introducing them to their crate or carrier. Place it in a location where your dog spends a lot of time, such as in the living room or bedroom. Leave the door open and place a comfortable bed or blanket inside the crate to make it inviting.

Encourage your dog to explore the crate by placing treats, toys, or eating their dinner inside. Gradually increase the amount of time it spends in the crate, starting with just a few minutes and gradually working up to longer periods of time. Once your dog is comfortable spending time in the crate, start closing the door for short periods of time while you’re at home.

It also helps to acclimate your dog to their crate or carrier in the environment they will be traveling in. Take them for a car ride in their carrier to get them used to the motion and sounds of traveling. Place the crate in a garage or other noisy area to simulate the sounds and sensations of the cargo hold.

By crate training your dog before flying, you can help ensure that they feel safe and comfortable during their journey. This will not only make the trip more pleasant for your dog, but also help reduce stress and anxiety for you as well.

Pre-flight Vet Check-Up

Before you fly with your dog, you should schedule a pre-flight vet check-up to ensure that they are healthy enough to travel. Your veterinarian can perform a physical exam to check for any underlying health issues that may cause complications during the flight. They can also update your dog’s vaccinations and provide any necessary medications or supplements to help keep them calm and comfortable during the journey.

If your dog has a pre-existing medical condition, such as heart or respiratory problems, it’s important to discuss this with your veterinarian and the airline prior to booking the flight. Some airlines may require a special clearance or additional documentation for dogs with certain medical conditions.

Additionally, if you are traveling internationally with your dog, you may need to obtain a health certificate or other documents from your veterinarian to comply with the destination country’s regulations.

Vaccination and Health Certificate Requirements

Most airlines require that pets have a current health certificate and are up to date on all vaccinations before traveling. When flying internationally with your dog, vaccination and health certificate requirements can vary by country.  

It’s important to research the destination country’s regulations and requirements well in advance of your trip. Contact the relevant government agency in your country of residence, this will often be the Department of Agriculture, which handles animal imports and exports. For the US, this is the United States Department of Agriculture – Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.

Many countries require that dogs have current vaccinations for diseases such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Depending on the country, there may be specific time frames for when the vaccinations need to be administered before the flight.

In addition to vaccinations, some countries also require a health certificate issued by a veterinarian. This certificate typically includes information on your dog’s vaccinations, health status, and microchip identification number. Some countries may require additional documentation, such as a blood test for certain diseases.

It’s important to work closely with your veterinarian and the destination country’s embassy or consulate to ensure that all required vaccinations and documentation are in order before your trip. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in your dog being denied entry or quarantine upon arrival.

Read our article about requirements for different countries:

• Requirements for Getting your dog into the EU
• Requirements for Getting Your Dog into Nepal

Airline-Specific Regulations and Policies

Before booking a flight with your dog, it’s crucial to research the airline’s pet policies and requirements. Each airline has different rules and regulations regarding pet travel, including size restrictions, breed restrictions, and whether pets are allowed in the cabin or must be transported in the cargo hold.

To find an airline’s pet policy, you can visit the airline’s website and look for a section on pet travel or travel with animals. Alternatively, you can do a quick internet search for the airline’s name followed by “pet policy” or “travel with pets” to find the relevant information.

By researching the airline’s pet policies and requirements ahead of time, you can ensure that your furry friend meets all the necessary criteria for travel. This can help avoid any last-minute surprises or issues that could potentially prevent your dog from flying with you.

Adding a Dog to Your Flight

After you have booked your flight, to add a dog to your flight reservation, you will need to contact the airline directly.  You should add your pet to your reservation as soon as you book your flight because there are only so many spots allowed on the plane for a dog. You can contact the airline before you book your flight to see if there is room available for your dog on the flight. Contacting the airline to add a pet to your flight reservation can usually be done through their customer service or reservations department.  

Most airlines have a dedicated phone number for pet reservations. You can find this number on their website or by searching online.  Some airlines allow you to add a pet to your reservation when you book your flight online. Look for a “pet travel” or “animal travel” section on the airline’s website to see if this option is available. Some airlines also offer the option to contact customer service via email, live chat, or social media messaging. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to call.

Different airlines have different policies and procedures for traveling with pets, so it is important to research the airline’s rules and regulations beforehand. Generally, you will need to provide specific information about your dog such as its breed, size, weight, and if it is flying in cabin or in the cargo hold.

Flying with a Dog in Cabin

Flying with a dog in the cabin can be a convenient option for many pet owners, as it allows them to keep their furry friend close by during the flight. However, there are several important considerations to keep in mind.

Size and Weight Restrictions

When flying with a dog in the cabin, airlines generally have size and weight restrictions for both the dog and the carrier. The exact limits will vary by airline, so it’s important to check with your specific airline beforehand to ensure that your dog meets the requirements.

Generally, dogs that are allowed to travel in the cabin are small dogs that can fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat in front of you. This means that the carrier must be able to fit within the dimensions specified by the airline, which can vary, but are typically around 18″ long x 11″ wide x 11″ high. Some airlines may allow slightly larger carriers, but this can depend on the aircraft and seat configuration.

 For weight limits, most airlines restrict dogs in the cabin to no more than 20 pounds, or 8kg, including the weight of the carrier. Some airlines may allow slightly heavier dogs, but this also depends on the airline and aircraft.

 It’s important to note that these restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of both the dog and other passengers. If your dog exceeds the size or weight limits, they may need to travel in the cargo hold instead. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that your dog is comfortable and able to stand up, lie down, and turn around comfortably in their carrier during the flight.

Types of Carriers Allowed

The type of carrier allowed may also vary by airline, but generally, carriers should be able to fit under the seat in front of you, and have adequate ventilation. Common types of carriers include:

Soft-sided carriers

These are the most commonly used type of carriers for in-cabin pet travel. Soft-sided carriers are lightweight, collapsible, and typically have mesh panels for ventilation. They are also generally easier to fit under the seat in front of you than hard-sided carriers. Some popular options for soft-sided carriers include:

• Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier
• Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier
• Peanuts Soft Sided Pet Carrier

 Expandable carriers

These are soft-sided carriers that have the ability to expand or contract, providing your pet with more space during the flight. However, they may not be allowed on all airlines, or able to be expanded on flights – so it’s important to check with your airline’s pet policy.

Some popular expandable carrier options include:

• Lesure Expandable Pet Carrier
• Peanut’s Expandable Soft Sided Pet Carrier

Additional Fees

There may also be additional fees for traveling with a pet in the cabin, which can vary by airline and flight itinerary. The cost of flying with your dog in the cabin with you generally ranges between $95 to $450 USD one way, although the exact fee may differ depending on the airline and destination.

Flying with a Dog in Cargo

Airlines may allow dogs to travel as excess baggage, which means they fly with you on the same plane and are transported in the same part of the plane as checked luggage. This option is available for larger dogs that cannot fit in a carrier under the seat in front of them.

Dogs that are transported as excess baggage are generally placed in a special area of the cargo hold, where they are protected from the elements and have access to temperature-controlled environments. This is commonly referred to as ‘flying in cargo’. 

Size and Weight Restrictions

Size and weight restrictions for flying with a dog in cargo can vary depending on the airline and the type of aircraft being used. However, as a general guideline, most airlines require that the dog and its crate weigh no more than 100-150 pounds combined.

Additionally, the crate should be large enough for the dog to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably. Many airlines have specific crate size requirements, which may vary depending on the breed and size of the dog. It is important to carefully research the policies of the airline you plan to fly with and ensure that your dog meets all of the necessary requirements before booking a flight.

Types of Crates Allowed

The type of crate allowed for flying with a dog in cargo can vary depending on the airline and the size and breed of the dog. Many airlines have specific requirements for crate size and design, and it is important to check with the airline before purchasing a crate to ensure that it meets their requirements.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) sets the standard for container requirements for flying with your dog in cargo. The requirements are:

• The crate must be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• The container must be clean, leak-proof
• Absorbent bedding must be provided
• The container must be well constructed and be able to withstand other freight damaging it or causing the structure to buckle or bend.
• Separate food and water containers must be provided, either fixed inside the container or attached to it so that they are accessible.
• The container must be adequately ventilated on at least three sides, with the majority of the ventilation being provided on the upper half of the container.

The IATA gives guidelines on measuring your dog to help you select the proper sized kennel. The calculated dimensions refer to the inside of the kennel.

A = length of animal from tip of nose to base

B = height from ground to elbow joint

A+1⁄2 B = length of container

C = width across shoulders or widest point

Cx2 = width of container

D = height of animal in natural standing position from top of the head or the ear tip to the floor (whichever is higher) / height of the container (top flat or arched)

Minimum internal container dimensions:

A + ½ B = Length

C x 2 = Width

D = Height

Snub nosed breeds require 10% larger container

 These requirements can be found here IATA Pet Container Requirements.

 Some popular kennel options include:

• Petmate Sky Kennel Portable Dog Crate
• Vari Dog Kennel

 Read our article Flying with Your Dog in Cargo: Essential Items You Need to see what we use for Merci when flying.

Feeding and Hydration

Feeding and water recommendations for flying with your dog in cargo can vary depending on the airline and the length of the flight. However, as a general guideline, it is recommended to:

1. Avoid feeding your dog a large meal before the flight. A light meal or no food at all is recommended a few hours before the flight to help prevent motion sickness and discomfort.
2. Feed your dog a light meal at least two hours before you leave for the airport and provide a short drink and exercise the animal immediately before crating.

3. Provide your dog with water up until a few hours before the flight. It is important to make sure your dog is hydrated, but it is also important to avoid overhydrating your dog before the flight, as this can lead to accidents and discomfort during the flight.

4. Food and water dishes must be attached to the inside of the kennel door to provide your dog with access to water during the flight. The water container should be easily reached to refill without opening the door.

5. Depending on the duration of the flight, most airlines require certification that your dog was offered food and water within four hours of arriving at the airport. To ensure compliance, a Shipper’s Declaration document or sticker is typically used to indicate the time and date of the last feeding and watering, as well as instructions for the next 24 hours.

Handling and Safety Precautions

When traveling with your dog by air, it is important to ensure that the dog’s kennel is properly secured during transport. Airlines typically require that all kennels be securely closed to prevent dogs from escaping during the flight.

Zip ties are commonly used to secure a dog’s kennel during air travel. They are a convenient and effective way to ensure that the kennel stays securely closed and that the dog cannot escape during transport.

Zip ties are preferred over other locking mechanisms, such as padlocks, because they can be easily cut off by airline staff in case of an emergency. This allows for quick access to the dog if needed, while still ensuring that the kennel stays securely closed during the flight.

Live Animal stickers are required by most airlines on crates or packages containing live animals. These stickers should be placed on the top and sides of the crate in a visible location. They help ensure that the crate is handled properly and with care during transport.

Labeling the crate with your contact information is an important safety precaution when flying with your dog in cargo. Make sure to include your full name, phone number, and airline route on the label. This will allow airline staff to contact you if there are any issues or delays with your dog’s transport.

Additional Fees

The cost to fly a dog in cargo can vary widely depending on several factors such as the airline, destination, the size and weight of the dog and kennel, and other factors. Generally, the cost to fly a dog in cargo ranges from $200 to $1,000 each way.

At the Airport

When you arrive at the airport, you will need to head to the airline counter to check-in with your pet. At check-in, the airline agent will ensure your pet and kennel meet the necessary requirements for your trip and collect the required pet fee. Remember to allow extra time at check-in for them to ensure your pet is ready for take-off!

When Flying in Cabin

Once you are checked in and have your cabin pet tag, you are ready to go to the security checkpoint. At the checkpoint, you will need to take your pet out of their kennel. 

• All pets should be brought to the security checkpoint in a hand-held travel carrier.
• Remove your dog from the carrier just prior to the beginning of the screening process.
• Place the empty travel carrier on the conveyer belt so it can be x-rayed.
• Never place a pet in the x-ray tunnel. The x-ray machine is solely used to screen passengers’ personal property and carry-on luggage.
• If possible, carry your dog during the screening process. Alternately, your dog can walk through the screening process if it is on a leash.
• A TSA officer will give your hands an explosive trace detection swab to ensure there is no explosive residue on your hands.
• Once the screening process is complete, return your dog to the travel carrier at the re-composure area away from the security checkpoint.

When Flying in Cargo

The check in process is very similar when your dog in flying in cargo.

• You should check in at least two hours before your flight, but no longer than 4 hours before your flight.
• When you arrive at the airport, you will need to check in with the airline and declare that you are traveling with a dog as excess baggage. The airline staff will provide you with the necessary paperwork and instructions for preparing your dog for the flight, including any specific requirements for the crate or carrier.
• After you have checked in, you will need to take your dog to the oversized baggage area or cargo terminal for inspection.
• The airline staff will typically inspect your dog and its crate to ensure that they meet the airline’s requirements for safe transport.
• You will remove your dog from the kennel to have the kennel x-rayed, so have a leash handy.
• Place the empty travel carrier on the conveyer belt so it can be x-rayed.
• Once your dog has been inspected and cleared for travel, you will need to place them back into their crate or carrier for the flight.
• Before the crate is loaded onto the airplane, you will be required to secure the kennel door with zip ties to ensure that it stays securely closed during the flight.
• Once your dog is loaded onto the airplane, you will proceed through security and board your flight. It’s important to keep in mind that you will not be able to access your dog during the flight, as they will be traveling in the cargo hold of the airplane.
• After you arrive at your destination, you retrieve your dog from the oversized baggage area or cargo terminal. The airline staff will typically require identification and may inspect your dog and its crate again to ensure that everything is in order.

Whether you’re planning a vacation or relocating to a new city, traveling with your furry friend can be a wonderful experience. However, it’s essential to take into consideration the various requirements and regulations to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your pup. From crate training to obtaining health certificates and adhering to airline-specific guidelines, preparing your dog for flying is crucial. Whether you choose to fly with your dog in cabin or cargo, knowing the size and weight restrictions, types of carriers or crates allowed, and any additional fees is essential. Remember to always prioritize your dog’s safety and comfort, and with proper planning and preparation, flying with your furry friend can be a stress-free and enjoyable experience.