How to Travel with your pet

We all know that leaving your furry friend behind can be the hardest part of vacationing. Who is going to keep them company, feed them their favorite treats, and snuggle up with them at night? No one can replace you, we get it. That's why, when travel calls, you should bring your animal with you! With a little preparation and some helpful tips, you can fly high with your furry friend. In this blog, we'll give you the lowdown on how to travel with your pet, from getting them through TSA to getting them snuggled up on your lap for the flight.

First things first: do a quick research on your airline’s policies and fees for pet travel. Different airlines have varying rules and regulations when it comes to flying with animals. Some airlines allow animals in the cabin, while others only allow them in the cargo hold. Additionally, many airlines have restrictions on the number of animals they can accommodate on a particular flight. Be sure not to skip this step as you don’t want to be caught off-guard with unexpected charges or denied entry.

Once you have your flight booked, it’s essential to ensure your furry friend is fit to fly. Get them examined by a vet to ensure they are healthy enough for travel, especially if your pet has any pre-existing medical conditions. You'll need a health certificate that’s issued within ten days of your travel date, so plan accordingly. Also it is a good idea to prepare your pet for the trip. Get them used to their carrier by introducing them to it a few days before the trip. Let them sniff around it, climb inside and sleep in it so that they get used to the space and feel comfortable in it. You should also make sure their medical records are up to date, and they have the necessary vaccinations. Make sure your pet has access to water and comfortable bedding to keep them calm and happy during the journey.

On the day of travel, it's best to arrive at the airport early to allow plenty of time to get through security and check-in. TSA guidelines regarding animals require the animal to be removed from the carrier and passed through security separately. The pet carrier will need to fit under the seat in front of you, so it's important to ensure the dimensions fit within the airline's guidelines.

If you're traveling with a larger animal, they may need to fly in the cargo hold. It's important to choose an airline with a good track record of pet safety, and to ensure that your animal is loaded on the plane last and unloaded first. You should also take precautions to ensure the animal stays comfortable during the flight, such as providing comfortable bedding and water.

Lastly, prepare for the additional fees. Usually, airlines charge anywhere from $100-$150 per flight, but some airlines may charge by weight or number of animals. On your travel day, arrive early, check-in, and pay the fee at the ticketing counter if it wasn’t done online. Once you’re on the plane, stow your pet's carrier under the seat in front of you. Voila! You and your furry best friend are ready for takeoff.

Traveling with your pet can be an exciting adventure, but it requires some preparation and research. You need to ensure you have the right carrier, have done your research on the airline’s policies and fees, and have a health certificate on the day of the flight. With this ultimate guide, we hope you'll travel confidently and comfortably with your furry best friend! Remember, they may not be human, but they're undoubtedly family, worthy of the same great adventure at your side!