Traveling with dogs can very easily turn into a real mess if you don’t think of all the details that will make your trip comfortable and safe (both for you and for your little pup as well). Thankfully, there are many things you can do to ensure traveling with dogs will be a really amazing experience.
What is there to do, more exactly? How to make this easy for you and for your furry friends? We have gathered some of the best tips for traveling with dogs – so read on and find out more.
- Plan ahead
Same as with all traveling-related issues, going on a trip with your puppy should be thoroughly well-planned. You really need to know how much your trip will cost, what are the extra-fees for traveling with dogs and all the other money-related details. We suggest you to research for at least two flight options, so that you can choose from the one that suits you the most.
Furthermore, remember that the earlier you book, the more likely it is that you will find a good price for a flight that includes your pet as well.
- Check the policies
Each airline company has their own policy when it comes to traveling with dogs, so it’s very important that you check these out and make sure you meet all the standards. Remember that aside from the note from the vet, you will also have to look into the best dog crates too and purchase one that really fits your (and your puppy’s) needs.
- Plan your departure
Every dog has their own “issues” – and some may feel there’s a rather unpleasant experience in store for them. Therefore, they may hide away or cause trouble for the sole purpose of not being “taken” on a plane. To avoid this kind of situations, make sure you create a strategy that’s suitable for your puppy’s personality.
- Arrive early at the airport
…But at the same time make sure you are not too early. Make the transition as smooth as possible for your pup by not spending too much time in the airport, but making sure you will not have to rush through the gates either. Keep in mind that you will most likely have to spend a little more time with all the procedures (e.g. you will have to take the pup out of the carrier to go through the x-ray scanner), so you should add this into the schedule as well.
- Train your pup for the flight
If your puppy has never been in a crate before, it is highly recommended that you do train him beforehand. Furthermore, the dog should be very well-exercised too, so that he doesn’t get rambunctious and potentially harm himself.
In general, it is a good idea to maintain a positive attitude about the entire experience – including the dog crate training. Your pup will sense this and he will be easier to accommodate with the ups and downs of flying in a plane.