Airline Approved Pet Carriers – Choosing the best one for your dog or cat. Start by reviewing various airline policies for pet travel.

Airline approved pet carriers are the best means of traveling with a dog or cat. While travel is stressful for animals your furry traveling companion should be as comfortable as possible while it is in transit. A well-adjusted pet should think of the carrier as its den or place of security.

Size determines where your pet will be in the plane:

• Large animals travel with the hold. This is not climate controlled however and may be stressful to your pet.

• Small animals may either be placed in the hold or with the passengers as carry-on luggage if the carrier meets proper dimensions. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of the owner. It must stay in the carrier at all times on the plane. Some airlines will only allow one animal with the passengers.


Advantages of Pet Carriers

• Your pet is safe inside an approved carrier.


Disadvantages of Pet Carriers

• Airline policies concering carriers may vary. The carrier you purchase may not be acceptable to some airlines.

• Depending upon the size of the carrier, your pet may fly separated from you.





How to Measure Your Pet for a Carrier

• Length – measure from the nape of the neck to the base of the tail.

• Height – measure from the floor to the shoulder.


How to Choose the Proper Carrier Size for Your Pet

• Check the airline policies on the types of carrier that are permitted aboard the plane.

• There should be enough space for your pet to stand, lie down and turn around.

• Your pet should be able to stretch out on its side and sleep inside the carrier.

• Adequate ventilation on all four sides.

• No part of your pet’s body should be able to exit the cage at any time for safety purposes.

• Water and food bowls can be secured to the carrier with outside access for filling.


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Preparation Well In Advance of Travel

• The veterinarian should clear your pet for travel. You should never sedate your pet without the veterinarian’s approval.

• Always choose a direct flight.

• Let your pet get accustomed to the carrier at least a month in advance. Put some treats and a favourite toy inside.


Preparation Just Prior to Departure

• Don’t feed your pet within four hours of departure. No water within two hours of departure.

• Line the carrier with a non-toxic, disposable, absorbent material in case of accidents.

• Make sure that all screws and bolts are in place and secure.

• Provide the airline with your name, your pet’s name, home address, flight destination and where you can be reached while vacationing. Also post this information on the carrier.

• Carry a picture of your pet in case it becomes lost.

• Place feeding instructions on the carrier.

• Place two ID tags on your pet’s collar. One should have its name, home address and your phone number. The other should have the phone number and address where you will be staying during your vacation.

• Label the carrier on the top and sides with a tag indicating “Live Animal” and “This Side Up”. The lettering should be large, clearly visible and easy to read.

• Remove or secure any wheels on the carrier so that it doesn’t roll around in transit.

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