Travel tips for taking your dog on a plane

Going out-of-town for a vacation or to visit family? Want to take your dog with you? These travel tips for going on a plane with your pup will help.

When it comes to planning for your next trip, there are certain things you have to take into consideration before you travel. One of those things is whether or not you will be taking your dog with you. And if you are traveling by plane, it is especially important to have a plan in place to make sure your trip is a success.

Going on a trip with a pup can be a bit stressful. You want to make sure that everything goes smoothly both for yourself and furry friend. And when it comes to flying, it can be a hassle without the addition of a four-legged flying companion. However, hopefully with these travel tips you can fly the friendly skies with your pup without any unnecessary drama.

Before making any travel plans, make sure you know what the rules are for the airline you are planning to fly with. Even before you book your ticket, make sure you review the airlines policies for traveling with a pet. While the rules may vary depending on which airline you choose, for the most part they require your pup to fit in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you.

Also depending on the airline, you may want to make sure you are booking the right seat for you and your dog. After all, some seats might offer more room than others, and that is always a plus when traveling with a pup.

As Chewy recommends, make sure that your dog is familiar with the travel carrier they will be occupying for the flight. The last thing you or your pup needs is the stress of an even more unfamiliar environment. It’s scary enough being shoved under a seat with someone you don’t know sitting above you, the last thing your pup needs is to be in a carrier that they are not comfortable with either.

Another major thing before actually boarding the plane is to make sure that you let your pup go to the bathroom. Many airports offer an area specifically for dogs to be able to relieve themselves, and it is in your best interest to make sure that happens before you ever step foot on the plane with your pup.

Even with having allowed your pup to use the facilities before boarding, accidents happen. It is a good idea to make sure that your travel carrier is lined with training pads. This will help to contain any mess and will make clean up easier. It is also a good idea to pack extra puppy training pads, as well as poop bags and even baby wipes to make sure that your pup is clean and you’re not worried about any accidents.

Make sure you bring a toy or blanket with you for your pup’s comfort. Just like with a child, you want your dog to be as comfortable and content as possible. And by bringing a favorite blanket to snuggle with or a special toy, you are offering your pup a sense of security.

Dog treats or dog food are also a good idea to have with you. And if those dog treats happen to have the added benefit of being calming treats, then that is even better. Not only will it help keep your dog calm during the flight, but it can also be smart if your checked bag ends up delayed, because at least this way you will have something to give your pup when you deplane.

No matter why you are traveling, it can be stressful, and when you bring your pup along with you, there are even more things to consider and worry about. However, with these travel tips for your next plane ride with your dog, hopefully it will be a bit easier to head off on that trip without extra worries.

Do you have any travel tips or tricks that you use when flying with your dog? Have you gone on a plane with a pup before? Were there things you wish you had known or done? Tell us your thoughts in the comments.