Traveling with Dogs on a Plane

What to expect while traveling with your small, canine BFFs on an airplane.

First thing is first- you need to meet my pups. Indy is a three-year-old cavapoo (right) and Myla is a one-year-old cavapoo (left). They're super laid back, adventurous dogs with the sweetest personalities. This blog post is a result of an adventure to Florida with Myla and Indy aboard a Delta Airlines Boeing 737-800. My mother and I recently braved the two hour flight from Cincinnati to Fort Myers, pups in tow. The short version: Car rides are still the preferred method of transportation for these two... airplane rides are, in a word, stressful. However, I'm sure they were glad not to be left at home for two weeks in the below freezing weather.

Things to consider before you decide to book the trip...

1. Is it best for you and your pup? Air travel can be stressful, overwhelming, and hard on your dog.

2. Does your airline of choice allow pups onboard the aircraft, in the cabin with you? Do NOT ship your pup via cargo. It is irresponsible, dangerous, and we cannot be friends if you do so.

3. Will your dog fit in a crate that fits under the seat? You will have to check with your airline on the exact under-seat dimensions for the aircraft your flight will be using.

4. What do living arrangements look like once you arrive at your destination? Most hotels, rental cars, and short term rental properties do not allow pets. Additionally, the ones that do, your pet will not be used to the environment. It's not a good idea to leave your pet for long periods of time ever, but especially not in strange environments.

5. Is it cost effective? To put this in perspective, it cost $125 per dog, per leg. This means for two dogs, it was $500 for our roundtrip fare. (*Note: One dog per human, my mom had Myla.)

Okay, so you've decided to bring your BFF(s) along on your travels- yay! Now, how should you prepare for the trip?

1. Purchase a carrier that meets airline requirements AND your pet's needs. In the weeks leading up to your flight, purchase a carrier based on the size requirements of your aircraft. You can find out this information by contacting the airlines reservations department. I recommend this carrier on Amazon. It has a place to slide over the telescoping handle of your carry-on, plenty of ventilation, a sturdy bottom to prevent collapsing inward, and all four sides expand for maximum comfort while lounging in the SkyClub.

2. Allow your pup to get comfortable with the carrier. Ease into this if your dog isn't already comfortable with being towed around in a carrier. Start by placing treats in the carrier with the door open, allowing them to go in on their own and retreat immediately. Once they're comfortable with this, give them their favorite bully stick in the crate, allowing them to enjoy from the comfort of being on the ground. Once comfortable, start picking up the carrier and walking around your house for one to two minutes at a time. Sneak treats in through the top while speaking words of praise to your pup. Increase time and distance as they get comfortable. Then go to car rides in the carrier. Over a few weeks, the carrier will become a second home to your pup.

3. Stop providing food and water several hours before the flight. Check with your veterinarian on the specifics of this one.

4. Take the edge off. Ensure you take your pup on a walk or play fetch for awhile before the flight so they're less restless. On that same note, ensure they relieve themself immediately before walking into the terminal.

5. Health Records. Most airlines have you provide health records from your vet showing vaccinations and overall a clean bill of health.

Alright, ready for the show? It's time to head to the airport. Here's what you can expect.

1. Checking-In: Have health records from your vet in an easy to reach location, along with your ID and credit card. I flew with Delta Airlines (as always) and while they didn't ask for their records, the company policy is to have them, so come prepared.

2. Walking through the Terminal: Try to actively avoid the more populated areas around the gate area the best you can. The less attention is better for your pup's nerves. While waiting for the plane to board, head to a corner.

3. Boarding the Pane: Be one of the first onboard, if possible, so you can get situated without holding up the others boarding. I recommend your pet carrier being your only carry-on, as it requires a lot to maneuver it. I made the mistake of having my rolling carry-on with me, which I will never do again. Trying to stow it in the overheads while tending to the dog was a 5 minute nightmare.

4. During Flight: To all of you who brag about your dog sleeping soundly during flight, I am envious. Indy simply stared at me, the entire time, with her big, brown, sad eyes. Luckily, I had the row to myself and the flight attendants were dog lovers, so Indy stuck her head out the majority of the time, which calmed her nerves quite a bit.

5. Post-Flight: As soon as humanly possible, get that poor pup to an outdoor area or to a pet relief station within the airport. Follow soon after with food, water, and a walk for them to stretch their little legs. My pups did all of the above then immediately crashed into a four hour "nap."

All in all, it was worth the hassle! Indy and Myla (and us humans) thoroughly enjoyed the Florida weather. We went on plenty of walks, enjoyed a few trips to the community dog park, and spent afternoons poolside.