Most pet owners think of their pets as treasured members of the family. Naturally, these members would want to travel to the airport parking lot with everyone else going on vacation. But before making plans to bring Fido or Fifi, consider the risks and regulations regarding traveling with your pets across the US.
In the airport
When you arrive at the airport parking lot, it is a good idea to transport your pet in a carrier across the asphalt, as it could get very hot on its paws. At most airports in the United States, your pet is required to be in a suitable carrier when you enter, unless you have a service dog on a leash.
Due to a 2009 regulation requiring all airlines working in cooperation with airports to provide relief areas for service animals, there are now “pet friendly” airports that can handle other types of dogs and cats located throughout the world. country. Relief areas generally include an outdoor area for your pet to stretch his leg and go about his business.
If your pet is traveling in the cabin of the plane with you, remember that they will have to go through the same type of TSA security screening as you; you will need to go through the metal detector and may be subject to a physical inspection. or pat. Even stuffed dogs are not exempt from TSA screening procedures! And since you never know how Fido or Fifi will react, take some extra time to go through security before boarding your plane.
Airline regulations
When traveling as cargo or checked baggage, your pet’s carrier must be of a certain size and cannot exceed a specific weight limit. Your portable kennel is generally required to have rigid sides and must provide a food and water bowl and have an absorbent liner on the bottom. Of course, you wouldn’t expect your beloved Labrador to be crammed into a cat carrier, but be aware that most airlines require a certain amount of space for the animal to move around comfortably before allowing the carrier to enter the hold. loading.
Make sure your animal is old enough to fly comfortably and book a nonstop flight, if possible to cause minimal trauma and delays. Also think about the temperature. It is not a good idea to travel with your pet during very hot or cold periods in your destination or departure city.
Always check with the airline you are flying to to find out the exact requirements for taking your dog or cat on your trip, and be prepared to pay a hefty sum for the privilege.
On the other hand, more and more airlines are banning brachycephalic pets, so-called snub-nosed dogs and cats like bulldogs and Himalayas, from flying. This is because high altitudes pose an extreme risk to the health of animals with a very short muzzle, who have difficulty breathing and staying cool while in the air. American Airlines, Delta, Cathay Pacific, and Singapore Airlines are just a few of the airlines that restrict the transport of brachycephalic animals on their planes.
When you land at your destination, keep your pet in his cage until he can reach a relief area. Remember that when he gets off the plane, he will be disoriented, so be sure to keep him calm until you get to your hotel. Have a special gift and an item from your home on hand to help you feel better.
There is no reason to leave your beloved pet at home when you head to the airport parking lot. Just make sure you adhere to airline and airport rules and allow plenty of extra time to deal with the unexpected.