Flying with a dog is not a decision to take lightly. There are so many variables to take into consideration. 

Deciding to fly with your dog is a very personal decision. I spent many hours researching so I could accurately answer all your questions about flying with a dog.

I share my experience flying with my dog, Ollie, in the cargo hold and whether I would do it again. 

Please read this article and honestly assess yourself and your dog to determine if flying with your pooch is the best option for travel.

Did You Do Your Research?

When deciding whether or not to take your pooch on vacation with you, don’t skimp out on the research. 

Consider the following:

• Will your dog travel in cabin or cargo?
• Is the breed of your dog accepted by the airline? Some airlines do not allow bully breeds and/or brachycephalic breeds (snub nose)
• Which airline best suits your dog’s needs?
• What does the airline require for pet travel?
• Can your dog handle the airport and flight experience?
• Can YOU handle the airport and flight experience with your dog?

What Are The Rules And Specifications When Flying With A Dog?

Each airline has its own set of rules and regulations when flying with a dog.

Make sure you research all the airlines you are considering flying with and pick the one that is best for your dog.

Here are some general tips to help make your travel experience a little easier, no matter which airline you choose:

Make Sure Your Dog Has Identification Tags And/Or Is Microchipped

ID tags and a microchip will greatly increase your chances of getting your dog back safely if they happen to get lost.

Vaccination Records And Health Certificate

Ask your vet to print you out an updated copy of your dog’s vaccinations. You may need to show this to airline staff.

Some destinations require you to have a health certificate (a document with proof of vaccinations).

This must be signed by your veterinarian after examining your pet and determining that it is free of infectious diseases and satisfies all important requirements of the place you are traveling to.

Dog Carriers

Pet carriers must fit under the seat and be soft-sided.

Dogs need to stay in the carrier for the duration of the flight. 

You may be able to unzip for a few minutes to give your pooch a chance to stick their head out for some pets and a small treat but they must remain in the carrier.

You cannot have a pet carrier booked in the emergency exit rows. No extra legroom for you, sorry!

How Much Does It Cost To Fly With A Dog?

While each airline is different, the industry standard is a $125 fee each way.

And don’t forget about vet visits and vaccinations, they will cost you too. 

First time flying? You’ll need to get an airline-approved pet carrier.

So the cost of travel with your dog is not insignificant.

A non-monetary cost of flying with your dog is your and your pooch’s health. It’s potentially stressful for both of you.

The one and only time I flew with my dog, I felt stressed from before we left the house until we were at our destination.

Is It Safe To Fly With A Dog?

This question does not have a cut-and-dry answer. You will need to weigh the pros and cons and decide for yourself.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) discourages air travel with large dogs.

If you must travel with your dog in cargo, the ASPCA recommends that you book a direct flight, get a check-up with the vet and let them know your travel plans.

Keep in mind that no form of transportation is entirely risk-free.

There are health risks involved for both humans and dogs.

The main difference is that your pooch can’t tell you when he is not interested in flying.

Please, please, please, do your research and weigh the pros and cons before you book your ticket and add your pooch to your itinerary.

The main health concern for flying with a dog has to do with temperature regulation. While some cargo holds are pressurized and climate controlled, they can still have extreme temperature ranges.

Animals flying in the cargo hold may experience extremely hot or extremely cold temps which can cause them to overheat or come down with hypothermia.

As for their ears, there’s a reason why you have a pack of gum handy on flights. Chewing it on the plane helps prevent ear discomfort and muffled hearing.

Dog’s ears are also affected by high altitudes.

Your dog does not have the luxury of chewing gum, but that’s OK. Dogs have an amazing ability to equalize the pressure in their own ears thanks to the unique design of their outer ear canal.

It’s worth mentioning that pregnant and senior dogs are at more risk when flying. Consult your veterinarian to make sure your preggo or aging pooch can handle a flight safely.

What Considerations Should I Take BEFORE Flying With A Dog?

Make Sure Your Dog Is Comfortable With Travel

Some dogs can’t handle travel because of illness, injury, age or temperament. Take your time and really consider if traveling with you is the best option for your dog.

A dog sitter or boarding facility may be the best option, especially if it’s only for a week or two.

Planes can be traumatizing for dogs because they are full of loud noises, changes in air pressure and temperature, tons of people (and smells) they’re not used to, and general discomfort.

Not to mention they have to hold it for many, many hours and have limited access to food and water.

I traveled on a plane with my dog in the cargo hold once. We were visiting family in another province for the summer so we were there for a couple of months. 

While I loved having Ollie with us, I felt like traveling was too stressful for me and him and vowed not to do it again. I would rather drive than fly with him if we’re going to be gone for months at a time.

The next time we went to visit family, it was for a few weeks and we decided to board Ollie instead of bringing him. 

I can’t confidently say that this experience was less stressful for him because he was in an unknown environment. But I felt better knowing he was well looked after, and neither of us suffered through another stressful flight.

Make Sure Your Dog Is Allowed At Your Destination

Some accommodations allow dogs, and others do not.

If you’re staying with family or friends, extend some courtesy and let them know ahead of time that you’re bringing your dog and make sure they’re cool with it.

The last thing you want to do is upset your steeply discounted accommodation hosts!

Check With The Airline 

The airlines often have restrictions on the breed and size of dog.

Federal regulations require pets to be at least 8 weeks old and should be weaned at least 5 days before flying. 

It’s important you double-check the requirements with whichever airline you book your ticket with to make sure your dog meets them. Each airline is slightly different so do not skip this step!

Will Your Dog Have Fun On The Trip?

Are you bringing your dog somewhere that is pet-friendly and have lots of dog-friendly activities you can do together? 

If you have to think about this question for just a couple of minutes, it might not be worth all the stress you both will endure in the traveling process.

Consider leaving your pooch with a trusted family member, pet sitter, or boarding facility.

Does Your Dog Have The Right Temperament To Fly?

Air travel is stressful for dogs, so making sure they have a temperament that works well with change is important.

Even if your pet is physically well, doesn’t mean that flying is a good choice.

Dr. Mahaney describes the temperament of an ideal travel dog:

“A calm, pleasant dog that does well in closed environments with other people and possibly other dogs.” 

On an airplane, there are lots of weird sounds. There are altitude and pressure changes that will cause your dog’s ears to pop.

Truthfully consider if your dog can handle these occurring in a new environment.

Quite frankly, not all dogs are suited for airline travel and the stress that comes with it, especially when they are isolated in the cargo hold.

Trust me when I say that your trip is stress and anxiety-inducing for both you and your dog the whole time from when you start preparing to leave for the airport until you safely reach your destination. 

Even at your destination, it takes some time to get used to if it’s unfamiliar to you and your dog.

There’s a lot to think about and consider before you add your dog to your itinerary. Please do not skip this step. Take your time to make a decision that is best for both you and your pooch.

Is It Cruel To Take A Dog On A Plane?

That depends on your dog. Some pets are good travelers, others are not.

If your dog shows signs of anxiety or discomfort, you may not want to put them through a flight ever again. 

You know your dog the best. Ollie is a pretty laid-back dog, so I wasn’t too worried about him flying in the cargo hold.

That being said, I was not prepared for the rigamarole at the airport, even transporting him from the parking lot to the airport on the shuttle was stressful.

I found the whole experience way too stressful for me to even consider doing it again. I would sooner drive than do that over again given the choice. That’s my experience, anyway.

What Are Some Tips For Traveling In The Cargo Hold?

• Use Direct Flights
• Travel on the same flight as your dog
• Choose temperature considerate flights – early morning and late at night in summer and midday in winter
• Try not to fly with your dog during busy travel times such as holidays and summer
  • Your dog is more likely to undergo rough handling during hectic travel periods
• Let your dog get used to the travel carrier or crate at least one month before your flight so they are a bit less stressed at travel time
• Make sure your dog’s nails are trimmed so they don’t get caught on anything
• Fit your dog with a collar that can’t get caught on the carrier
• Make sure you have ID tags, and travel ID tags on the collar
• A GPS tracker attached to the collar is a good idea
• Travel ID on the carrier with the following info:
  • Your name
  • Permanent address
  • Phone number
  • Final destination
  • Where you or a contact person can be reached as the flight arrives
• Don’t give tranqs unless prescribed by your vet
  • If prescribed, follow the dosage EXACTLY
• Do not feed your pet for 4-6 hours before the trip
• You can give them small amounts of water
  • If possible, put ice cubes in the water tray attached to the inside of your pet’s crate or kennel.
• Carry a current pic of your dog
  • If your dog is lost during the trip, a pic will make it much easier for airline employees to search effectively
• When you board the plane, notify the captain and at least one flight attendant that your dog is traveling in the cargo hold
  • If the captain knows that pets are on board, they may take special precautions
• When you arrive at your destination, open the crate as soon as you’re in a safe place to examine your dog
• If anything seems wrong, take your pooch to a vet immediately
  • Get the results of the exam in writing, including the date and time

Who Should I Contact When Making Travel Arrangements?

1. Your Veterinarian: Make sure vaccines are up to date and your dog is fit to travel.

2. The Airline: Call and get the rules from an actual person when you think you have decided on an airline to use.

Once you have booked your ticket, call the airline immediately and reserve a spot for your pooch.

Most airlines only allow a certain amount of dogs per flight, so do this ASAP to avoid any potential problems flying with your dog.

3. Foreign Consulate for international travel: Gather all info about requirements they have for getting your pooch into their country.

Keep in mind that you will need to follow your country’s rules and regulations as well as the country you are flying into.

Can I Bring My Dog Out Of The Country With Me?

Yes, but keep in mind that you have to follow both your country’s regulations as well as the regulations of the other country you are traveling to.

Contact the Consulate or Embassy in that country to find out their regulations.

Some countries (and Hawaii) require quarantine of your pet upon arrival.

Talk to your veterinarian about the risks of disease to your dog and have them vaccinated appropriately.

Know the requirements before your travel. Truly consider if your dog (or you) are up for the challenges of flying. 

What Is The Best Way To Choose A Flight?

• Book a non-stop flight
• Avoid flying during holidays and other busy times of the year
• In warmer weather choose early morning or late night flights
• In colder weather, choose midday flights
• Call the airline and add your dog to your flight as soon as you book your ticket
• Call and confirm flight arrangements the day before you leave to make sure everything is still good to go

What Should I Bring With Me On My Trip?

• Your Vet’s contact info
• List of Vet’s and Emergency vets where you are going
  • To find a list of Veterinarians and Pet Emergency Hospitals in the United States Contact:
  • American Animal Hospital Association Search
  • American College of Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care
• Identification
  • ID tags for your dog, tags should include
    • Your name
    • Current home address
    • Home phone number
  • Travel ID Tag, should include:
    • Your destination’s address
    • Phone number you are using while traveling
• If microchipped, info should be updated to include where you are staying at your destination
• Current picture of your dog
• Medical Records
  • Current copies of your pet’s medical records including pre-existing conditions and medications
  • For travel inside your country, a brief summary of medical conditions should be sufficient
• Health Certificate
• Proof of up-to-date vaccinations
• Acclimation certificate for air travel is required for some airlines
• Items for your dog, including:
  • Medications
  • Collar
  • Leash
  • Harness
  • Crate
  • Bed
  • Blankets
  • Food
  • Water
  • Food and water bowls
  • First aid kit
  • Treats
  • Collapsible bowl

What Crates Are Approved For Air Travel?

Check with your airline for specific criteria to follow when purchasing a crate. They will have specific weight and measurement requirements.

You can buy crates that are ‘airport approved’, just double-check that they meet the specific measurements of the airline you’re flying with.

Approve crates should:

• Be large enough for your pet to stand without touching the top of the cage, turn around, and lie down
• Be strong
• Be free of interior protrusions
• Have handles or grips
• Have a leakproof bottom with plenty of absorbent material such as puppy pads, towels, or blankets
• Be ventilated on opposite sides, with exterior knobs and rims that will not block airflow
• Be clearly labeled with your name, home address, phone number, destination contact information
• Have a sign stating “Live Animals” with arrows showing which way is upright

What Is An Acclimation Certificate?

This is a form your veterinarian may consider signing that will waive the low-temperature federal regulation for animals traveling in the cargo hold, as stated in the Animal Welfare Act.

If the airline cannot guarantee that the animal will not be in temperatures lower than 45°F (7.2°C) for more than 45 minutes when the animal is moved between the terminal and the plane, or for more than 4 hours when the pet is in a holding facility, and you don’t have an acclimation certificate, the airline will not let your pet fly.

Airlines cannot ship animals if they will be exposed to temperatures higher than 85° F (29.5° C) for more than four consecutive hours while in animal holding areas of airport terminals, or for more than 45 minutes while being transferred between the aircraft and the animal holding area.

Why Do I Need An Acclimation Certificate?

Check with your airline and your veterinarian to see if you need one. I did not need one when traveling with my dog in the cargo area, so it just depends. 

If your dog is traveling in the cargo hold and temps at the departure airport are below 45ºF, your pet will most likely need an acclimation certificate in order to travel.

Some airlines may require them even when temps are not below that level. 

Obtaining an acclimation certificate is done at the discretion of your vet. It’s based on the vet’s assessment of your dog’s health and the temperature your dog is accustomed to.

Remember, there is no acclimation certificate that allows dogs to ride in the cargo area when they will be exposed to temps above 85ºF for more than four consecutive hours while in animal holding areas of terminals, or for more than 45 minutes while being transferred between airplane and the animal holding area.

ShouId I Tranquilize Or Sedate My Dog For A Long Flight?

Tranquilation reduces anxiety and induces a sense of tranquility without drowsiness. Whereas sedation has a more profound effect and produces drowsiness. 

Sedation is not performed for flights because no one is in the cargo area to observe your dog. 

However, tranquilizers may benefit some dogs.

Discuss this with your veterinarian well in advance of your expected travel date.

If they recommend tranquilization for your dog, follow the exact dosing recommendations.

How Do I Prepare My Dog For A Flight?

Visit Your Veterinarian

Consult your veterinarian before taking your dog on a flight. They will be able to assess your dog’s health, fill out any paperwork you may require, and update your pooch’s vaccinations.

Make sure to schedule the appointment well in advance of your travel (6 to 8 weeks) so you have time to get the vaccines and any forms filled out.

Familiarize Your Dog With Their Carrier

Dogs are creatures of habit and most of them won’t blindly trust you after being shoved into a carrier out of the blue. 

It’s better to familiarize your dog with the carrier by taking baby steps.

As early as four months before your flight, start by leaving the carrier out so your dog has access to it.

Your dog will likely be curious and give it a sniff or two. You don’t need to rush into getting them into the crate, just let them know it’s there.

The next step is coaxing your dog into the carrier. Work on it a few minutes a day with training treats. Reward your dog each time he or she positively engages with the carrier by going in it voluntarily.

When your dog is fairly comfortable around the carrier, you can feed them, and give them toys to chew in it, along with lots of little training treats. This will foster a positive association with the carrier.

As your trip draws nearer, take your pooch for a short trip in their carrier. Zip them up in it, take them in the car, and even walk around with them in the carrier. 

Doing each step little by little will help effectively acclimate your dog instead of throwing them into a stressful situation. 

What To Do With My Dog On The Day Of Travel

The day of travel is both stressful and exciting. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to help minimize the stressful part of traveling with your dog.

Feeding

It’s generally recommended that your dog fly’s on an empty or nearly empty stomach.

Your dog’s age, dietary needs, size, and the time and distance of flight should be taken into consideration. Talk to your vet about your dog’s feeding schedule on the day you fly.

Exercise

Tire your dog out as much as possible BEFORE you leave for the airport. Try to get to the airport early so you can exercise your dog even more. Your pooch will be confined for quite a few hours so the more tired the better!

Cargo Boarding

Try and check your dog in as late as possible when they are riding in the cargo hold.

This minimizes their time in the terminal by themselves. Although, you don’t want to miss your flight, so do your best to judge the time accordingly.

On Flight

Let the flight attendant know that your dog is in the cargo area. This helps ensure that the staff is aware your pet is on board and that they will be unloaded safely and waiting for you in the baggage area.

At The Destination

Pick your dog up ASAP from the baggage area or designated pet area. 

Trust me, there is nothing sadder than your dog all alone in their crate at the baggage area just waiting for his family to pick him up 🙁

This is what happened with Ollie. One of the many reasons why I will never put him through a flight experience again.

How Do I Get My Dog From The Parking Lot To The Airport?

We parked our van at the airport when we flew with Ollie. That meant we had to get him out of the van, into the shuttle, off of the shuttle, and into the airport.

Talk about stress, this is done even before we reach the airport and I was already freaking out.

Thankfully, I had my partner with me as I don’t think I would have been able to do it myself with my 3 small kids. 

Once we got to the airport parking spot, getting from the van into the crate was easy. We got the crate out of the van and onto the ground before putting Ollie in it.

Then we had to wait for the shuttle. When that came, we had to lift Ollie in his crate onto the shuttle bus. I was praying it was going to be empty! We were flying at night so thankfully not too many people were on the shuttle. Once on the shuttle, we had to figure out where to put him safely. 

Aside: Our shuttle driver revealed that he used to work in the baggage area of the airport and he would not recommend a dog fly in the cargo area. So that was great. Thanks for that. Nothing like an extra layer of guilt on top of anxiety and stress. 

When we got to the airport, we again had to lift Ollie off the bus and onto the sidewalk. We had to get a trolly to put the crate on because that was the only way to get him through the airport. Again, if I did not have another adult with me, I don’t think I would have been able to do it. I would just be a pile of nerves curled up on the airport floor, crying (if I even made it that far!)

Even finding where we had to go inside the airport with Ollie on the trolly was not fun. I found every step along the way to be stressful. Not an experience I wish to repeat.

What’s The Best Way To Take My Dog Through The Airport When Booked In Cargo Area?

1. First and foremost, make sure you have the right equipment:

• A quality, airline-approved dog crate
• An on-the-go water bowl that attaches to the inside of your dog’s crate.
  • Use ice cubes if possible or fill and freeze it the night before travel to help minimize spills

2. Arrive Four Hours Early

It’s best to tack on an extra couple of hours to your arrival time. When traveling with a dog, you don’t have the option of self-check-in, so it’s best to account for long lines and more time spent going through security.

When your dog is traveling as cargo, prepare to part with them when you check your luggage. Most likely the agent at the desk will check your dog’s paperwork and check the size and weight of your pet and crate.

From there, you will likely leave your pooch at oversized luggage, where your dog will be picked up when it’s time to board the plane.

Some airports have specific areas they store pets beforehand and some do not.

Tip: Attach a recent pic of your pooch to the carrier.

This helps ensure there are no mix-ups while you’re separated from your dog. You can also attach a little bag of food to the carrier so that airport personnel can feed your dog in case of a delay

If you are traveling internationally, you will proceed through customs with your dog.

Remember, you are your dog’s biggest advocate – if someone asks you to leave your dog or do something you’re not comfortable with, say NO.

What Is The Best Way To Get My Dog Through The Airport As A Carry-On?

Keep your dog in their carrier while chatting with the ticket agent. 

You need to see a ticket agent so they can give your dog a boarding pass and check carrier size, even if you are not checking any suitcases.

A dog carrier counts as your personal item.

Dogs must stay in their carriers pretty much the entire time you’re navigating the airport.

If you’re waiting a long time in the terminal, keeping them leashed while out of their carrier is probably fine, provided you follow good airplane etiquette and keep them calm and controlled.

The other time your dog is allowed out of its carrier is when going through security.

The carrier itself must go through the X-ray machine. You may need to remove your dog’s leash and collar and put them through the X-ray machine as well.

As you go through the metal detector, you will have to carry your dog. Your dog should be trained enough that when you have to put them down at security, they won’t run away. If they’re a flight risk (pun intended), consider not flying with them. 

Customs will likely ask for up-to-date rabies certificates and vaccinations.

If everything is good to go after security, return your dog to its carrier and head toward your gate.

While waiting at your gate, give your dog food and water.

It is important that your dog has access to both food and water before, during, and immediately after a flight.

Here’s what Dr. Pilossoph, DVM, a consulting veterinarian at Healthy Paws Pet Insurance,  recommends:

“Feed your dog a small meal at least four hours before your flight, so they have plenty of time to digest their food before boarding the airplane. You’ll also want to give yourself enough time to take your dog to the airport’s pet area to relieve themselves before you board. Water in small volumes can be offered at any point, up until the flight, and should not be withheld if your pet is thirsty.”

Visit the doggy bathroom before your flight.

Most airports are equipped with a pet relief area. Just follow the signs! These areas usually have faux grass, a hose for washing it off, poop bags, and access to drinkable water.

Visit the doggy bathroom before your flight and immediately after. If you plan on flying frequently with your dog, getting into this routine will help teach your dog when it can go potty.

Keep Your Dog Calm

Going through the airport (and getting on a plane) can be an anxious, frightening experience for dogs. As their parent, it’s your job to keep them as calm as possible.

You might give your dog a vet-approved tranquilizer, use a calming ThunderShirt, bring familiar toys, use CBD products, leash walk around the airport, and/or give tiny treats throughout the ordeal. 

Consult your vet for their input and try and do what is best for your pooch.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare

Make sure your dog is fully accustomed to the carrier and happy to be in there. Make sure they are OK with loud noises, busy areas, lots of people, and cramped spaces.

There is only so much you can do, but properly carrier-training your dog is the most important thing when traveling with your pooch.

How Do You Collect Your Dog When You Arrive At Your Destination

Disembarking from a flight when your dog traveled in the cabin with you is pretty straightforward. 

Gather your dog’s carrier and wait to exit the plane. You may want to let most of the passengers off before you if your carrier is awkward to walk with down the narrow aisle.

If your dog is flying in the cargo hold, follow the tips below:

1. Head to the designated pet pickup location

With most airlines, dogs are available for pickup two hours after the flight’s arrival. Pick up your dog within 4 hours of your arrival time – preferably the fastest possible time you can.

Follow the signs to the airline’s domestic cargo location. At some airports, pet pickup may be in or near the same area as baggage claim. 

When we flew, Ollie was left in baggage claim all by himself. It was so sad. But it was a huge relief to see him there safe and sound. 

2. Bring your ID and waybill

Once you’ve reached the pet pick-up area, present a photo ID and air waybill.

When we reached the baggage claim, we literally went over to Ollie, put him on the trolly in the crate, and wheeled him the hell out of the airport. We couldn’t get out of there fast enough. We didn’t have to show any type of paperwork, or even talk to anyone, which is scary now that I think about it.

In most cases, once you’ve reached the pet pickup area, present a photo ID and the waybill (a printed or electronic tracking document that the check-in agent handed you when you dropped off your dog). You’ll need both of these items for domestic and international flights.

For an international flight, you will have to clear your dog through customs.

With baggage claim and customs out of the way, head outside or to the pet relief area of the airport.

Feed and water your dog, give them lots of pets and love!

Alternatively, you may want to feed your dog when you arrive at your destination but if it was a long flight they may be hungry.

What Next?

Very carefully consider if flying with a dog is right for you. From my experience flying with Ollie in the cargo hold of the plane, I have decided that flying with a dog is absolutely not for me. I will never do it again. This is my personal opinion based on my experience, yours may be different.

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