Approved Pet Operators and Procedures for Flying with Your Pet

Flying with your pet requires more effort than just buying a plane ticket, checking his luggage, and placing it comfortably in his seat. For animals, special protocols must be obeyed, and such protocols differ from one airline to another. Some airline companies have strict requirements especially for the size of the pet carrier that is to be brought onto the plane. An airline-approved pet carrier would be the safest to bring, and to know this, you as a pet owner should take the full initiative in gathering the information needed to smoothen your traveling experience with your pet.

Flying with allows animals

Before purchasing a carrier, make sure that the airline you are flying with allows animals to be onboard their aircraft. For most airlines, you will also need a reservation for your pet. Once you have your reservation, it is important that you should measure your pet carrier based on the size of your dog and on the airline-approved pet carrier size as well. Remember, if you are a 16 “dog from head to base, you will need a carrier that is longer than 16” so that your pet has room to move and change position.

The pet must be in good health

Also, before your scheduled flight, make sure your pet is in good health to avoid questions from airline staff. In general, when a pet is in very good condition, it will behave properly and hence there will be no problem carrying it.

Usually, smaller dogs such … Read More >>>

Airline Approved Car Carriers – How to Choose the Right One

Airline Approved Car Carriers - How to Choose the Right One

If you plan to take your dog with you on a plane, you will need a pet airline that is approved by the airline … and you must do your homework before buying it. The term “pet carrier” is rather generic so let’s start by breaking things down a little.

If you have a very small dog (such as one of the teacup breeds) then you can easily use a soft-sided carrier which is often just called a pet bag and you will be able to keep your dog with you in the cabin. If your dog is large (such as a German Shepherd or Golden Retriever) then you will actually need a hard-sided dog crate or dog cage and your pet will need to travel in the cargo section.

Between sized dogs or large-breed young puppies

For the in-between sized dogs or large-breed young puppies, things get a bit more tricky. You’ll need to be sure to measure the carrier, measure your dog, and check with the airline you will be using to see what their requirements are.

While airlines may vary slightly, here are some general guidelines for the sizes that will likely be accepted for in-cabin pet carriers.

  • Small – 16″ long x 10″ wide x 8.5″ in height – suitable for pets up to 8 lbs            
  • Medium – 18″ long x 11″ wide x 10.5″ in height – suitable for pets up to 16 lbs            
  • Large – 20″ long x 11.75″ W x 11.5″ in height
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