Do dogs need to be sedated for flights?

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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Transporting your precious pet to another country is a complicated process, and can cause pet parents to worry about the safety and comfort of their pets. It is important to remember that however long the flight is, do not give your pet a sedative unless expressly advised by the vet.

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To alleviate stress during air transport, sedatives are sometimes prescribed (4).

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A pheromone calming collar to help lower anxiety. Trazodone (brand name Desyrel®), gabapentin (brand name Neurontin®), and alprazolam (brand names; Xanax®, Niravam®) are examples of medications that are sometimes prescribed by veterinarians to reduce the anxiety that some dogs experience when traveling.

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Dogs' ears can be sensitive to changes in air pressure during flights, which can cause discomfort or pain. Providing your dog with plenty of water and a comfortable carrier can help alleviate these symptoms.

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You can reduce stress associated with new situations by bringing your dog's bedding and some of their favorite toys. Be sure the toys are safe, as you may not be able to directly supervise your dog during travel. Using a pheromone product such as Dog Appeasing Pheromone (Adaptil™) may reduce anxiety.

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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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Flying with a Dog in Cargo. If your dog cannot fly in cabin, then you'll have to fly them in the cargo hold in an approved pet carrier. You'll need to drop the dog off with their carrier when you check in and have to follow the correct regulations with the kennel.

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The whole process of flying can be stressful for a dog, but those levels of stress can be greatly reduced with a few simple home comforts and reassurances. Ensuring your flight is a non-stop flight rather than one with changeovers can be a huge benefit to your dog, as can looking to travel at a suitable time.

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On the day of travel, take your dog for a long walk or run so he or she can expend as much energy as possible. Remember to feed your pet dog or cat no more than six hours before the flight. Flying on a full stomach is not recommended; feed your pet a little less than usual on the day of the flight.

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Dogs recovering from anesthesia can take about 12 - 24 hours to return to their normal selves. You can expect some common side effects during this period, including sleepiness, whining, disinterest in food, and a wobbly gait.

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Sedation and anaesthesia allow your dog to relax, calm down, or go into a deep sleep so they won't feel any pain during surgeries or medical examinations where they may be stressed or nervous.

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Your pet can travel on the plane with you (either in-cabin, as accompanied baggage, or as cargo). Your pet will be charged accordingly. Some airlines no longer offer this option and some countries do not allow pets to enter the country in-cabin.

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Traveling internationally with a pet can be complicated, more so because of the regulations and paperwork than because of the actual trip itself. The reason for all those extra rules, regulations, and procedures boils down to one main reason: rabies. Many countries are proudly rabies-free and want to keep it that way.

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Health and Safety for Dog Travel
  1. Bring your dog to the veterinarian for a checkup before going on an extended trip. Make sure all their vaccinations are up-to-date, and take their shot records with you. ...
  2. To keep your dog healthy as you travel, bring along a supply of their regular dog food. ...
  3. Be prepared for an emergency.


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