We’ve compiled a list of domestic pet travel do’s and don’t when flying with pets. Following these tips makes the trip go smoothly for you and your pet.
Do Visit the Vet
Visiting the vet for a health check generally isn’t a requirement when flying pets domestically. The exception is for:
- Pets aged 8-12 weeks
- Pets over 12 years old
- Snub-nosed breeds like Frenchies
Getting a health check at the vet is mandatory if your pet falls into these categories.
But asking the vet to assess the overall health of your pet before flying is always a good idea. We recommend visiting the vet, even if your pet doesn’t fall into the above categories.
The vet check helps keep your pet safe and gives you peace of mind.
Do Crate Training
Your pet must travel in an IATA-approved crate when flying domestically. The pet carrier should suit your pet’s size and breed.
Starting crate training as early as possible is your best bet. This helps acclimatise your pet to the crate.
Your pet gets to suss out the carrier and become familiar with it. They start viewing it as safe and secure.
- Introduce your pet to the travel crate gradually.
- Keep the interactions with the crate calm and positive.
- Allow your pet time to explore at their own pace.
Putting treats and toys inside the crate encourages your pet and creates positive associations.
The crate should have enough space for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably during the flight. But don’t worry if you’re unsure about picking the best size.
We help customers like you choose the perfect crate for your pets.
For instance, we recommend a larger crate for brachycephalic breeds (brachy breeds). One size larger than normal gives your brachy pet more ventilation and space to move.
Some common brachycephalic pet breeds are:
- King Charles Spaniel
- French Bulldog
- Persian Cat
- Pug
Do Socialise Your Pet
Some pets are very shy and find pet travel intimidating. These pets may get quite anxious when travelling.
A change in surroundings is often overwhelming for some. Your pet may feel out of its comfort zone and get stressed.
Socialisation is a fantastic way to help them stay calmer. It gives your pet protection against travel anxiety.
Try introducing them to unfamiliar places and circumstances. This helps build their confidence.
Do Feed 8 Hours Before Flying
We recommend feeding your pet eight hours before they fly. No sooner. Because eating too close to the flight time can cause travel sickness or mess in the crate.
Keep your pet well hydrated for 48 hours before the flight. Pets also have access to water throughout the journey. They can drink at pet boarding, during any transit stops, and in the crate while flying.
Do Let Them Empty the Tank
Encourage your pet to do their business before they fly. Take your dog for a walk or make sure your cat has access to kitty litter.
You want to lower the risk of your pet soiling their crate. Airlines authorities view faeces and vomit as a biohazard.
You need to clean the crate before departure if your pet soils it. Or the handler from a pet travel company like Dogtainers can take care of it on your behalf, which costs extra.
In some cases, your pet may miss their flight if they mess the crate. This depends on the timing and whether the mess can get cleaned in time.
Doing everything to reduce the likelihood of your pet soiling the crate is best.
Do Stay Calm
Owners cause the stress for most of the pets we transport. Sorry, guys.
As us pet owners know, our pets are dialled-in to our emotions. They pick up on emotional cues all the time – like stress.
Try to stay calm and be positive on travel day when flying with pets. Keeping cool helps ease any anxiety your pet might feel.
Do Hire Professionals
Hiring a professional pet transport company relieves stress for you and your pet. We transport pets in a comfortable, climate-controlled environment, reducing the stress they may face during travel.
Professional handlers deal with any mishaps like a messed crate. They’re on hand to care for your pet if their flight gets cancelled.
Pets might not get loaded onto the aircraft for several reasons. If you’re already on the flight, your pet gets left behind.
No matter where you are in the country, we can help your animal. Even if you’re not there, we’ll get them on the next flight.
Here are 5 benefits of hiring professionals for domestic pet travel:
- Minimise stress
- Health and safety
- Custom travel plans
- Door-to-door service
- Gives you peace of mind
Don’t Sedate Pets
We always recommend NOT sedating pets before flying. Pets under sedation can become:
- Dehydrated
- Disorentiated
- Easily travel sick
Pets under sedation are also harder to assess for authorities. If your pet appears sedated, airline personnel will reject it for travel.
You should avoid sedating even the most anxious pets.
We can help anxious pets relax in other ways. An Adaptil Collar for Dogs or deluxe vet bedding for your pet’s domestic trip are great options.
Other options can help calm both dogs and cats.
- Lavender oil
- Chamomile
- Valerian
We recommend using these under the instructions of your vet or an experienced practitioner.
Don’t Send Toys
Many people want to send their pet’s favourite toy in the travel crate for comfort.
But some airlines have a strict no-toys policy.
Even if the airline does allow toys, we advise against sending them with your pet. There’s limited space inside the crate, so including more items can affect your pet’s comfort.
Hard toys in the crate can be dangerous for your pet during the flight. Leave any toys at home for their safety.
You can include a blanket or old T-shirt with your scent in the crate. This can give your pet comfort and relieve stress.
Don’t Feed Pets Close to Departure
You might worry about your pet being hungry during the flight. But pets flying with a full stomach isn’t a good idea.
Being full can make your pet uncomfortable and cause nausea or vomiting. This may lead to a choking hazard in the crate.
Feeding your pet too close to departure also increases the chance they’ll need to relieve themselves in the crate. This may make the journey uncomfortable or lead to them being removed from the flight before takeoff.
We suggest feeding your pet their last meal 8 hours before the flight to prevent mishaps.
Domestic Pet Travel With Dogtainers
We help you plan and prepare for a smooth and stress-free domestic pet travel experience. Some of our popular domestic destinations are:
Spots might get snapped up quickly because space for pets is limited on planes.
Generally, we can secure flights three months in advance. But we’re limited to 14 days before departure with Qantas.
Flying with pets in Australia can be a smooth process with the right approach.
We’ve been perfecting stress-free pet transport for 50+ years.
Get your quote today for domestic pet travel.
Share this article