I am so excited my son/puppy OB is finally home! But traveling on an airplane with a new puppy was definitely… an adventure!
Flying with a dog or new puppy?It can be both exciting and a little daunting. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are four helpful tips that will make flying with your furry friend just a little bit easier and a lot more enjoyable!
1. Book Your Flight With A Pet-Friendly Airline.
This should definitely be the first thing to check on your priority list! Making sure your designated airline allows you to bring your furry friend with you – that is in the cabin, is super crucial because there are certain airlines that won’t allow pets at all. We need to make sure your furry friend comes along!
But no worries here is a list of pet-friendly airlines,
2. Familiarize Yourself With The Pet-Policy Of Your Airline.
When speaking of an FAA- approved carrier, this one did just the job! (Plus there are tons of other alternatives available, just Google “FAA-approved carriers”.)
Additionally, I would also recommend getting your pup familiar with the carrier. Since your pup cannot come out of their carrier for the flight (unless a service/emotional support animal), make sure your pup has enough room to roam and feel at ease for a smooth flight!
If you are adopting your pup from a family, I suggest sending your desired carrier to them to have your pup feel a little more comfortable in the carrier rather than the first time at the airport
3. Make Sure You Carry Food/Water Supplies & Treats Of Course!
This may seem like a no-brainer but completely worth mentioning because imagine YOU on a 6-hour flight with no food or water! Plus giving your pup a few treats throughout the flight could be a helpful incentive for being well-behaved or maybe if you’re like me – just for being CUTE? #dogmomoftheyear – Best Pet Travel Bowl
4. Utilizing Dry Puppy Pads or Find the Pet Relief Areas
Whether you prefer to use a dry pad inside your carrier or plan to take advantage of a designated pet relief area at the airport, it’s crucial to ensure your pet is properly ‘relieved’ before boarding their flight. A calm and comfortable pet makes for a smoother journey for both of you. Taking the time to let your furry friend do their business ahead of time can help prevent any in-flight accidents and reduce stress!
A dry pad is perfect for inside of the carrier, if you are okay with your pet pee-ing/poop-ing inside the carrier. Just PLEASE remember to replace them every once in a while during the flight.
If the idea of using a pad in your carrier doesn’t appeal to you, don’t worry—all airports should have designated pet relief areas. These spots are a lifesaver for traveling pet parents! Before your flight, it’s a good idea to ask an airport employee where the nearest pet relief area is located. Taking a few extra minutes to find one can save you from dealing with a stinky accident on the plane. It’s always better to be proactive and ensure your furry friend is comfortable and ready for the flight. A quick trip to the pet relief area can make all the difference in having a smooth, stress-free journey!
I’m thrilled to continue sharing more puppy and dog tips as OB and I grow together!
Being a Dog-Mom is such an incredible experience, and I love every moment of it! From training tips to fun adventures, I can’t wait to dive into this journey with all of you. OB and I are learning so much, and I’m excited to share our progress, challenges, and all the joy that comes along!
If you use any of these tips on traveling with your pup or have any additional questions, please leave them in the comments!
Safe Travels & Happy Flying with your four-legged co-pilot!! 🐶
