Tips For Keeping Your Pet Safe In Cargo
Travelling can be very traumatic experience for our pets, especially if they have to travel in the cargo hold. Undeniably, cargo is the more risky option for pet travel. The safest way for our pets to fly is in the cabin as carry-on luggage. However, most of the pet-friendly airlines only allow pets to travel in the cargo area. Here are some tips on how to prepare your dogs and cats for a safe, comfortable trip.
Tips For Flying Your Pet Safely
1. Be sure your pet is fit to fly
A trip to the vet prior to pet air travel is necessary. Unhealthy dog and cats are not recommended to fly with their owners. Keep in mind that flying can be very stressful. If you will be returning soon or your pet is not fit to fly, consider leave your pet at home and have a pet sitter. Young kittens and puppies, as well as senior pets, are more sensitive to the effects of stress from travel conditions. It’s best to consult with your vet about additional health screenings to assess the risk of death or injury during air travel.
Read more: 5 Signs Your Dog Is In Pain
2. Talk to the airline
Don’t forget to double-check the airline’s policies before booking. For example, snub-nose dogs and cats are banned from flying with some commercial airlines. If you have any concerns about the welfare of your beloved dog or cat during travel, approach the airline employees politely and ask for confirmation that your pet is ok and is loaded in the cargo hold.
3. Make sure your pet’s crate
Invest in a AITA-approved, good-quality pet crate. The crate should be spacious enough for your pet to stand up, lay down and turn around in – give your pet room to stretch! According to PetTravel, IATA regulations require a sturdy kennel with waterproof bottom, adequate ventilation, spring locked door and disabled wheels.
Consider metal hardware instead of plastic fasteners to secure both halves of the crate. Put an ID tag on a piece of elastic around your pet’s neck and make sure your contact information is written clearly on the outside of the crate. Attach large water and food dishes to the inside of the door grate, and a supply of dry food should be duct-taped to the top of the carrier so the airline staff can provide foods to your pet without opening the door.
To add an extra level of protection for your pet, add cable ties to the door and corners of the crate. Last but not least, don’t forget to mark the crate with the words “Live Animal,†as well as with your name, contact number and a photo of your furry friend.
A high-quality travel crate will keep your furry friend comfortable and safe during the flight! Get your IATA-approved pet crate at PerroMart SG!
4. Consider the route carefully
Always arrange for direct flights. Choose a route with a short layover and a single connection. This is to decrease the chances that your furry friend is mishandled by baggage personnel during a layover or left on the tarmac during extreme weather conditions.
5. Get your pet ready for air travel
Be sure your pet is microchipped for identification and wears a tag and collar imprinted with your name and contact number. It is good idea to exercise your dog and play with your cat thoroughly before flying. This will help your pet to relax and deal better with the stress associated with travelling on a plane. To reduce separation anxiety, it is a great idea to leave something with your smell with your pet. Also, be sure you have enough of the pet toys and treats to keep your furry friend occupied during the flight.
Pack a few of your pet’s favorite toys and treats so he’ll have something familiar to play with and remind him of home! Get pet toys and treats at PerroMart SG now!