Tips for travelling with your pet by plane

Planning to fly with your pet? Here are some useful tips to have in mind.

To reduce the stress on your pet it's advisable to choose the most direct flight to your destination.

If you are concerned about temperature book an early morning, evening, or overnight flight when the temperatures are cooler or book your flight for the middle of the day for warmer weather.

Contact the airline you and your pet will be travelling on quite in advance so as to make sure your pet has a reservation because some airlines limit the number of pets on a flight. Also find out if there are any new travel restrictions or issues you need to be aware of.

Things you must have in mind when choosing a kennel/carrier for your pet:

* Size: There should be enough room for the animal to stand and sit in a natural position, turn around, and lie down. Some airlines require brachycephalic or "flat-faced" dogs to have a kennel an extra size larger for their safety.
* Security: Be sure the kennel door closes securely. A major cause of pet injury during airline travel is the animal getting out of the kennel. The door must not be locked as regulations require that your pet is accessible in the event of an emergency.
* And, of course, it must be approved for air transport.

If your pet has never been in a carrier, it's advisable you start training him/her as early as possible to ensure he/she won't try to escape from the kennel during the flight. This is the most common cause of injury for pets that fly.

Some pets may take up to 6 months to become comfortable in a kennel, and some may never completely accept it. If your pet does not become comfortable with the crate before the flight, you'd better choose another way of travelling.

If you are travelling to a foreign country, make sure that you have met all the quarantine and health requirements of your destination. In some cases failure to do so may cause your pet to be destroyed. Also remember the passport your pet needs.

Honestly evaluate if your pet will not attempt to escape from the kennel during shipment, otherwise you should look for other options in transporting your pet. Always have in mind not every pet is a good candidate for air travel.

Animals who are in heat or who are pregnant should not travel by air.

Hope this tips help you have a more pleasant trip. And remember, both you and your pet are always welcome in Pets Lovers Hotels!