Are pets safe on planes?

Is flying safe for dogs? Flying in the cabin can be a safe option for dogs, as long as the airline allows it and your dog meets the guidelines the airline requires.



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Flying your pet is as safe as flying yourself. However, pets are required to have a health certificate to fly. This health certificate is issued by a veterinarian a week before travel which means that potential health risks are assessed, greatly reducing illness incidents.

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Flying is an incredibly stressful experience for all dogs, but it can be especially upsetting for elderly dogs, as well as pups with health or behavioral challenges.

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Kirsten Theisen, director of pet care issues for the Humane Society of the United States, believes air travel is simply too stressful for most animals, especially when they are placed in an aircraft's cargo hold. “Flying is frightening for animals,” says Theisen.

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Calming your Pet when Flying
  1. Groom Your Pet Before Flying. ...
  2. Arrive at the Airport Earlier. ...
  3. Get Your Pet a Comfortable Carrier. ...
  4. Place a Piece of Clothing in the Carrier. ...
  5. Bring Her Favorite Treat and a Water Supply. ...
  6. Provide Calming Supplements. ...
  7. Prepare a Pheromone Collar. ...
  8. Let Your Pet Wear Diapers.


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Thanks for your questions/concerns about the safest method of travel for your dog! Many other pet owners have pondered the same question, and we're happy to provide some guidance. Having your pet travel via cargo instead of checked baggage would be best.

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During the layover, your pet will be dismebarked, and airline officials will ensure your pet has access to water and food. If the layover is for a longer duration, your pet will be taken to a pet lounge for a comfort stop where he or she can relieve themselves and stretch their legs.

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When it comes to flying with pets, one common question that pet owners often ask is whether they should sedate their pets during air travel. At PetRelocation, our straightforward answer is NO. Sedation carries various risks and is not recommended for pets during air travel.

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Understanding Your Dog's Ear Anatomy This tube helps even out pressure between the outside environment and the inside of the ear. So, when the air pressure changes rapidly, such as during take-off or landing of an airplane, your dog's ears can also experience a 'popping' sensation.

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The main benefit of air travel is that it's much faster for your pet to get to their destination. The cons of flying could include the cost of bringing your pet on a plane, the stressful experience of the flight, the possible separation of your pet, and the extreme conditions your pet may endure in cargo.

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Various factors can come into play to make the flying experience hazardous to pets. The cargo hold can have extreme temperatures and poor ventilation, especially if you travel in summer or winter or are going to or from very hot or cold locations. Your pet can be very stressed by the flight.

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Carriers and crates, especially hard-sided options, are safest because they keep your pet secure using your car's seat belt system or built-in anchors, according to our experts.

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So can engine noise, changes in pitch, altitude, and air pressure; all of which may lead to whining and barking. Even more: If your pup isn't used to being in a crate, confinement can cause frustration or outright panic. Then comes the attention-seeking.

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The cargo area of the plane is pressure and temperature controlled and, with pet-friendly airlines pets are the last to be loaded and the first to be removed upon arrival. They are situated securely and carefully with the pet's safety and comfort in mind.

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Regular Care when Handling Dogs Dogs must be cared for regularly during air travel. Dogs must be observed as regularly as possible during air transport (at least once in every 4 hours if cargo area is accessible). This includes when the dog is loaded and unloaded and whenever the animal cargo space is accessible.

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However, some airlines just don't allow pets in the cabin and to ensure that no passengers suffer from an allergic reaction while on board. Airlines must choose to put the needs of their human passengers first.

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Usually dogs are only allowed to fly in the cabin—known as carry-on pets—if they can comfortably fit in a carrier that you can stow under the seat in front of you. A small number of airlines, including JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Etihad Airways, allow passengers flying with dogs to buy an extra seat for their pet.

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Pets may be shipped as cargo if unaccompanied, and many airline cargo departments employ specialists in the movement of animals. Animals must always be shipped in pressurized holds. Some airlines allow the kennel to be carried in the passenger cabin as carry-on luggage if it fits under the seat.

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Make sure your pet fits While there are no weight or breed limitations for pets, they must travel in either a hard-sided or soft-sided carrier. This carrier must fit under the seat in front of you or you cannot fly with your pet.

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As long as your kitty stays in the kennel, there's nothing you can do if your cat starts meowing. Call the airline about their pet policy so you won't get a big surprise. You vet can also prescribe a mild sedative to help your cat relax a bit.

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Most of the time, cats travel quite well without the need for medication. Some cats, on the other hand, experience tremendous stress when subjected to air travel. Consult your veterinarian to create the best travel plan for your cat if she does not travel well.

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