Traveling with pets can be tricky for you and your beloved companion. That’s why it’s vital to cover all your bases before boarding, such as documentation, packing essentials, and more.
Check-In With Your Vet Before Flying
Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian, ideally no more than ten days before the trip. During the checkup, make sure your pet gets a physical examination for any illness and is up-to-date with their vaccinations.
Your vet can also give you advice on food and medication that will make it easier for your pet to be on a charter jet.
Prepare For Travel Anxiety
Getting stuck in a foreign, closed-off space for an extended amount of time can be scary for our pets. The combination of a new environment and motion sickness can often make them distressed.
Thankfully, you can remedy this situation if you know the signs and what to do. Here are some indications that your pet is stressed out and having an anxiety attack:
- Yawning and lip licking are subtle signs of stress
- Backing away with their ears at the back of their head
- Closed mouth and wide eyes
- Excessive panting and salivation
- Trembling
- Urinating/soiling
- Whining and scratching
- Making consistent noise
- Attempting to escape
- Vomiting (but this can also be due to motion sickness)
When your pet is in distress, you can do the following to help ease their attack:
- If they are backing away, give them space and move further away.
- Bring along a familiar object that will help make the trip more comfortable for them. This can be their favorite toy, a portable bed, a blanket, or even an article of clothing.
- Speak to them in a soothing voice or play calming music.
- If you’re aware that your pet experiences extreme travel anxiety, consult the vet before the flight. They can prescribe medication that will make the trip easier for your companion.
Know the Rules and Regulations
Before traveling, make sure to research if the location you’re going to has any laws regarding flying with pets. For instance, in the United States, there are basic guidelines mandated by the Department of Agriculture. Pets who will travel by air need to:
- Be eight weeks old or older
- Be fully weaned and in good health
- Have a valid health certificate
- Have rabies immunization
It’s also important to note that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has different measures for securing pets based on their size and weight. Small pets are under 150 lbs, while pets are considered large when over 150 lbs.
Meanwhile, Europe has its own guidelines on pets and private flights. Owners must get the following things in order so they can take their furry friends with them through the skies:
- Animal health certificate issued no more than ten days before the day of the flight
- Microchip
- Rabies vaccination
- Tapeworm treatment for dogs
Your provider may also have their own set of rules and regulations, so make sure to check with them beforehand.
Fly With Us Today
At Vault Aviation, your pet is a valued passenger. We’ll go above and beyond to ensure that you and your beloved companion have a great flying experience.
Contact us to book a flight or get a quote. We’ll also be happy to answer any questions you have regarding our services or policies on traveling with your pets.