These days, many of us like to travel with our pets. Travel in the car is common, but what about on a plane? If your dog weighs more than 15 pounds, it must fly in the cargo area. If this is the case,  the following tips will help to make it a safe and enjoyable flight for both of you.

• You will provide the crate with 3 well-ventilated sides and constructed of metal or hard plastic. Be sure it is roomy enough to give your dog breathing space.
• Try to book a flight that goes straight through to your destination. This helps to keep your dog’s stress level down and avoids the possibility of loss during plane changes.
• Avoid peak travel times to give attendants more time to handle your pet properly.
• Be up-to-date with vaccinations.
• Put something in the crate that is comforting to your dog..even your clothing that smells like you.
• Have a water dish attached to the crate. That way, if there is an extreme delay, attendants can provide water during the layover. Dogs can go for up to 10 hours without food or water.
• Do not feed your dog for 6 hours prior to the flight. They may have water up until the flight.
• When flying during a warm season or to a warm climate, fly only in the morning or late evening. Cargo holds can get hot while the plane is waiting to take off or get to the gate after landing.
• Put feeding instructions or medication requirements in the crate or attached to it in case your dog is lost.
• Be sure your dog has an I.D. container attached to it’s collar with your name, address, phone number and where you are going.
• Enjoy and have a safe flight knowing you’ve thought of everything!