Discover 6 Guidelines About Air Travel Along With Dog That Will Be Checked As Baggage

By Author: Bob Schroeder
Total Articles: 12
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Dogs traveling on airplanes, mainly those dogs that are too big to travel in the airplane cabin, can present a number of problems for the owner. Dog size is very crucial, carrier dimensions are important the weather and temperature are vital.

After some research into airline regulations, I have found the following tips to be very useful.

Number 1
If your dog is too big to fit under the seat in front of you, then you can get them on their way as CHECKED BAGGAGE.

Yes I said, checked baggage. The process is very simple, present your dog in their crate, to the reservation desk attendant.

It has been my experience that most airlines don't require reservations for your dog traveling as baggage. You really need to call your airline or log on to their site to make certain what their policy might be.

There are a couple of things that you are restricted from doing with dogs checked as baggage. You can't utilize curbside check in, and you go the route of self check in, it is a must to go to the reservation agent.

Number 2
By checking with the airlines ...
... you will get the correct size carrier, made of the applicable material.

The baggage handlers need to know that this is a dog, so put a LIVE ANIMAL sign some where on the carrier.

The size of your dog's carrier is really important.
Consequently the biggest your carrier can be will be about 40" long X 27" W X 30" H.

Since your dog will be with other objects, you want to assure that they are safe and secure. A soft side carrier is definitely not what you want, hard side of plastic or metal is what you need.

The carrier needs to have removable wheels, handles on the outside, and it will have to close securely without locks.

Your dog and crate combined weight can't exceed 100 pounds.

Number 3
Your flying dog will need to be comfortable, especially on a long trip, put food and water in the crate with them. Containers for the food and water must be on the inside of the crate, but have to be accessable by the baggage handlers. Most larger crates will have containers that snap into small doors that can be pulled open by the baggage people.

Number 4
Having their normal bedding in the crate with them, will help to lower the stress level of your dog. Well known items, such as their own bedding, will help to keep your dog calm and less stressed.

In case your dog has a toilet need, put puppy pads in the crate.

Number 5
Make absolutely certain that you have all your dogs current health records with you.

A trip to the VET a few days before travel with your dog would be adviseable, then you can get up to date records and make sure your dog is healthy. Most airlines will want a certificate of health before you can load your dog.

Number 6
If you have a pug nosed or snub nosed dog, be sure to check with the airlines to make certain they will be accepted to fly. These types of dogs have trouble breathing at high altitutes. Here again, check with the airline, because there could be different restrictions on this type of breed.

Number 7
You need to know the weather forecast for your departure point and also for the arrival airport.

You can be sure that each airline will have restrictions on temperature, this is done to be sure that your dog will be safe.

Temperatures that are going to be below freezing or above 85 degrees, might mean that your pet may not be able to go.

You should not leave home without checking with your airline for their dog transport weather restrictions.

There is no need to get all stressed out when you are planning a trip on an airplane with your dog.Gaining knowledge of some of the basic rules and regulations, making use ofthe guidelines and tips will make the trip successful for you and relaxed for your dog.

Author Resource Box:

Bob Schroeder, a dog owner who has to travel with his dogs on airplanes from time to time, would like you to join him at Flying Dog. Learn the correct information you need, to have your dog travel as baggage on an airplane. Get rid of your traveling stress and enjoy your flight with the information you need to travel with your dog, find it at http://www.squidoo.com/airline-travel-with-dogs