Dogs are man’s best friend! It only makes sense that you’d want to bring them along on your adventures.
After all, you love making memories with your adorable puppy pal – and they love exploring the world by your side.
Don’t let a long flight to visit family across the country hinder you from having your canine companion by your side this holiday season.
As long as you have these twelve essentials handy, including a cozy and compact dog carrier, you two will be ready to travel in comfort and style.
1. Airline-Complaint Dog Carrier
A cozy carrier is probably the most critical to acquire before flying with your pup.
Most airlines will allow you to bring your small breed dog on board as long as their carrier fits comfortably underneath the seat in front of you and your pet remains inside for the duration of the flight.
Airline requirements vary, so be sure to check with your airlines for their specific carry-on item size requirements before booking a trip for your and your furry friend.
Get your pet accustomed to the dog carrier ahead of the journey to ensure they are cozy for the duration of the flight.
Make sure the carrier is large enough that your dog can stand comfortably, as well as turn around and lie down if necessary.
VCA animal hospitals recommend soft-sided carriers since their softer design helps them fit underneath the seat more comfortably.
Your dog carrier will also be your carry-on item. Choose one with pockets to hold any veterinarian documentation you bring and any treats or personal items you want on hand during the flight.
2. Cuddle Buddy
Your dog will have to remain under the seat in front of you for the flight duration.
If they can’t cuddle with you, bring their favorite toy along to help soothe them while you’re in the air.
If your dog is a particularly anxious flyer, you could try a stuffed animal with an artificial heartbeat to help put them at ease.
3. Tasty Treats
Show your dog how good they’re being on a long flight by indulging them with their favorite treats.
It’s best to travel with a hungry dog to make it easier to use treats as an incentive and make it less likely for your pet to have an accident during the flight.
4. Short Leash
You’ll want to have a short leash to bring your pet to the pet relief areas at the airport during a layover or before your flight takes off.
A shorter lead will allow you to keep your pet close and minimize the risk of you being separated.
5. Fitted Harness
When you go through the TSA security checkpoint, you’ll have to remove your dog from its carrier and hold them while you walk through the metal detector. A sturdy fitted harness will make it easier for you to hold onto your furry friend, even if they try and wriggle their way out of your grasp.
6. Collar with Up-to-Date Tags
On the off-chance you get separated from your pup at the airport or during your trip, you’ll want to have them wearing up-to-date tags. This way, whoever finds your pet will easily be able to get them back to you.
7. Recent Photo of Your Canine Companion
Most of us have at least a hundred photos of our pets on our phones, but print one out just in case your phone dies!
If your pup goes missing at the airport, you’ll be able to show it to fellow travelers and be reunited with your canine companion faster.
8. Disposable Pee Pads
Even if you use the pet relief areas in the airport, lining the interior of your carrier with a disposable pee pad will help make cleanup more manageable in the case of an accident during the flight.
Simply slide one into the bottom of the carrier to keep your dog comfy and dry until you arrive at your destination.
9. Grooming Wipes
If your pet does have an accident in-flight, they’ll be uncomfortable sitting in it while they wait for the next flight or for you to pick up the rest of your luggage at the baggage claim.
Grooming wipes allow for a quick and easy clean-up to help your pet feel fresh upon arrival.
10. Food and Water Dishes
If you have a long day of travel, you’ll need to have fresh water and your pet’s food handy.
Plus, you’ll need water and food dishes for them once you reach your destination.
Pack compact pet dishes that can easily slide into the pocket of your carrier and make it easy to feed and water your dog when the time comes.
11. Vaccination Records
When planning a trip with your pet, you must do all the necessary research and have the proper documentation, especially if you are traveling internationally.
To cross certain state or international borders, you may be required to show a health certificate signed by an accredited vet, stating that it’s free of infectious diseases.
It’s a good idea to keep your vet’s information handy in case of any emergency during your trip. You should also have a list of emergency vet services at your destination, just in case.
12. Prescribed Medications
Make sure to pack any prescription medications your dog needs in clearly labeled containers to bring with you on your flight.
If you use anti-anxiety meds, test them out at home before your flight to know how they affect your pet before you travel.