Now that getting a puppy is easier than ever, it’s easier to get the perfect puppy. The perfect puppy for you may be with a breeder in another state. Picking up a puppy would present a situation where you may be flying with a dog for the first time, and the dog would also be flying for the first time. This situation could lead to many problems that may delay or even ruin the trip. There are some important ways to prepare for your dog’s first flight to make sure it remains a memorable trip in a good way.
Check With The Airline
Reservations for your dog should be made far ahead. Airlines often only allow a certain number of dogs in the cabin per flight, so you’ll want to reserve early once the airline is confirmed. Make sure to do the research when buying the plane ticket. Not every airline allows pets, and the airlines that do may have restrictions on the size, breed, and types of carriers allowed to bring them in.
How They Will Travel
Large dogs will likely be put in a carrier in a ventilated hold and not be able to travel in the cabin. This fact is essential because airlines may not let pets travel during some months since extreme temperatures could affect the hold. Small pets will travel using a carrier in the cabin, usually beneath the seat in front of you, for around $100.
Restrictions
Puppies will have to be weaned for five days before the flight and at least 8 weeks old. There may be weight minimums as well. Puppies will have to have all their vaccines at least a month before traveling on a plane. Puppies will have to be dewormed at least 3 days before flying. The rabies vaccine is only given to puppies after they are three weeks old, which may affect the timeline when a puppy can fly. A certificate will likely be required from a veterinarian claiming the puppy is healthy, has had no recent surgeries, and has their shots.
The Carrier
The puppy will be spending significant time in the carrier on the plane. It’s best to have the carrier picked based on the airline rules and sized to fit the puppy. The puppy will have to be able to stand and turn around inside the carrier. Dog breeds with short muzzles will require special carriers with increased airflow as they may struggle with breathing more than others while on the plane. To get the puppy used to the carrier, send it to the breeder where the puppy is and have them spend time in it getting treats and napping. Many layers of pee pads will be required inside the carrier for the flight.
Day Of
On the day of the flight, it is best to stop giving the puppy solid food for about four hours ahead. Be sure to provide them with adequate water and exercise before the flight. Keep the dog’s paperwork handy when entering the airport and use a backpack to keep hands free for carrying the dog and carrier. Puppies will be carried through the security check, and carriers are checked as luggage. Before the flight, use a pee pad to let them go somewhere secluded in the airport. On flight day, other things to remember include water and bowl, wet wipes and plastic bags, id tag for the crate and the dog, leash and harness, treats, a non-squeak toy for comfort, and a small amount of dog food just in case.
Be Prepared
These tips can help make the whole flying experience just another flight rather than a nightmare. It is best to know what to expect and to be prepared for any possibilities during the flying process with your puppy. Visit Leader of the Pack Dog Training for more pet advice and tips for caring for your furry loved ones. Give us a call today at 617-296-1711 with any questions!
