Airplane Safety Concerns with pets
There are safety concerns for all
dogs traveling by airplane, whether in the cabin or as cargo. Pay close attention to the cautions listed below, but also be careful when bringing your
dog in and out of the airport. If there is no other option for your travel plans than putting your
dog in cargo, there are ways to minimize risk:
• Use a recognized air-shipping service.
• Use a USDA-approved crate that is large enough for your
dog to stand up and turn around in.
• Freeze water in a bowl that is attached to the inside of the metal mesh at the front of the crate. It will prevent spillage when the crate is being loaded but be melted by the time your
dog is thirsty.
• Tape a cloth bag with one meal’s worth of
dog food to the front of the crate in case there is an unexpected delay.
• Never lock the crate. Close it securely so airline staff can open it in case of an emergency.
• Affix Live Animal stickers to each side of the crate.
• Pen arrows on the sides indicating which side is up. This may seem unnecessary but when the airline is being loaded, everything looks like baggage to the workers.
• Never tranquilize your
dog; it may cause breathing problems.
• Line the bottom of the crate with a cozy towel or blanket to soak up any accidents and to keep your
dog comfortable.
• Provide one chewy or fuzzy toy that has no sharp edges or rips.
• Write your
dog’s name on the front of the crate so the staff can call your
dog by his name.
• Affix the address and phone number of your destination to the crate.
• The ASPCA recommends taping a photo of your
dog to the crate in case he is separated from it. Carry an extra photo of your
dog with you on the airplane.
• Tell anyone and everyone that you can that your
dog is on the
plane: ticket and boarding agents, pilots, and stewards.
• Wait to board the
plane until you see your
dog being boarded and the cargo hatch closed.
• Always book a direct
flight.
• During warm weather, travel in the evening or early morning.
Share this article on Airplane Safety Concerns with pets with friends.
If you enjoyed this article please take a look at our Pet Tips and Information Archive.