Traveling with a dog can be exciting and nerve-wracking, especially if this is your first time. Nothing compares to being able to share experiences with our furry friends. But flying with a dog is different and can sometimes seem overwhelming. With proper preparation and planning, traveling by air can be easy and stress-free.  You can ensure that you and your dog have an enjoyable trip and that everyone else on board has a pleasant flight too! 

Get ready to explore new places together, and let's dive into our five tips for flying with Fido!

Book a Vet Appointment

When planning a trip, it's always a good idea to book an appointment with your vet to ensure your dog is in good shape to fly and determine what documentation you need. Ask your vet about the vaccinations required for international travel and what paperwork you may need.

A Collar and an ID Tag Is a Must

Ensure your pet wears a collar and an identification tag with your destination information. The tag should include basic information about you and your pet and contact information in case of an emergency.

You can use a dog tag or a microchip, but ensure the information is correct and updated for both cases.

Confirm Your Airline's Pet Policy

Always double-check airline pet restrictions, especially if you are traveling overseas. Policies are constantly changing, and you want to be confident that you and your dog are welcome on that flight. Check the airline's website, contact them, and send an email confirmation for documentation.

Check out more information here to know about U.S. Airport Policies.

Purchase an Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

An airline-approved pet carrier is one of the essential things for traveling with your dog. It is approved by airlines for air travel and designed to keep your pet safe and comfortable. The carrier should be collapsible to fit into the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. 

Need a guide? Click here to see a list of airline-approved pet carriers.

Pack The Daily Essentials

It's important to take the daily essentials of your dog when traveling. These should include food, water, collapsible bowls, a first-aid kit, wipes, poop bags, shampoo, and treats.

A reflective leash like the Buddy System Reflective Leash System is also a must-have for your buddy's travel. Aside from its hands-free feature, it has reflective stitching, padded handles, and a quick-release mechanism on the waist belt. 

But it also includes other items that will make their trip more comfortable. A blanket, some toys, shampoo, and wipes are some more items that should be on the list.

Final Thoughts

Now you can get ready and your best buddy for a fantastic adventure!

Remember these tips to prepare yourself and your dog for a safe and smooth flight. With some planning, you'll enjoy airplane cuddles before you know it. 

Ready to get started? Grab a pen and start crossing items off this list.