How to Prepare Your Dog for a Long Flight?

Icy Tales Team
6 Min Read

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Traveling with your furry friend can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful preparation, especially when it involves a long flight. Ensuring your dog is comfortable, safe, and stress-free during the journey is essential. Here are some expert tips and advice on how to prepare your dog for a long flight.

Choose the Right Travel Crate

Selecting the appropriate travel crate is crucial for your dog’s comfort and safety. The crate should be well-ventilated, spacious enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Pradeep Guragain from Magical Nepal emphasizes the importance of choosing an airline-approved travel crate. “Make sure to check the airline’s requirements for pet travel crates. An airline-approved crate not only ensures your dog’s safety but also prevents any last-minute travel disruptions,” says Guragain.

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Acclimate Your Dog to the Crate

Before the journey, it’s vital to acclimate your dog to the travel crate. Start this process several weeks in advance to allow your dog to get used to the new environment.

Bricks Coggin, CEO of ABCs Puppy Zs, advises, “Begin by placing the crate in your home and encouraging your dog to explore it voluntarily. Use treats and toys to make the crate a positive space. Gradually increase the time your dog spends inside the crate, ensuring they feel secure and comfortable.”

Schedule a Vet Check-Up

A pre-flight vet check-up is essential to ensure your dog is healthy and fit to travel. Your vet can provide necessary vaccinations, health certificates, and advice on any medications that might be needed for the journey.

Different countries and airlines have specific health requirements for pets. Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date and carry all necessary health certificates to avoid any issues at the airport.

Plan Your Dog’s Feeding Schedule

Managing your dog’s feeding schedule before the flight is crucial to prevent any discomfort or digestive issues during the journey. It’s generally recommended to feed your dog a light meal a few hours before the flight and limit water intake just before departure.

Bricks Coggin, suggests, “Avoid feeding your dog right before the flight to minimize the risk of nausea or vomiting. Instead, provide a small meal and water a few hours beforehand. Always carry some of your dog’s favorite treats to keep them calm and happy during the trip.”

Exercise Your Dog Before the Flight

Exercising your dog before the flight helps reduce their energy levels and can make them more relaxed during the journey. A long walk or a vigorous play session can be beneficial.

Physical activity is key to ensuring your dog remains calm during the flight. A tired dog is more likely to rest and feel less anxious. Make sure to take your dog for a long walk or engage in a fun play session before heading to the airport.

Keep Essentials Handy

Having a travel bag with all the necessary supplies for your dog is crucial. This includes a leash, waste bags, food and water bowls, a blanket, and any medications your dog may need.

Pradeep Guragain advises, “Prepare a travel bag with all the essentials your dog might need during the flight and layover. This includes familiar items like their favorite blanket or toy, which can provide comfort and reduce anxiety.”

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Familiarize Your Dog with Airport Procedures

Airport environments can be overwhelming for dogs. Familiarizing your dog with the procedures and environment can help reduce stress on the day of travel.

Bricks Coggin, recommends, “If possible, visit the airport with your dog beforehand to get them accustomed to the sights, sounds, and smells. This can help reduce anxiety on the actual day of travel.”

Monitor Your Dog During the Flight

During the flight, keep an eye on your dog and check on them regularly if possible. Ensure they are comfortable and not showing signs of distress.

Stay in touch with the flight attendants and inform them that you have a pet in the cargo hold. Most airlines allow you to check on your pet during layovers, so take advantage of these opportunities to ensure your dog’s well-being.

Post-Flight Care

Once you arrive at your destination, it’s important to provide immediate care and attention to your dog. Offer them water, allow them to stretch, and monitor their behavior for any signs of stress or discomfort.

After the flight, give your dog plenty of time to relax and adjust to the new environment. Offer them water and a light meal, and ensure they have a comfortable place to rest.

By following these expert tips and preparing in advance, you can help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your dog. Safe travels!

Last Updated on by Icy Tales Team

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