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Published: February 10th 2024
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Traveling is both exciting and overwhelming, and when you add a pet to the mix you may find yourself feeling a bit more anxious than usual. We all want what’s best for our pets and the idea of being separated from them during a flight isn’t very comforting.
However, knowing a little bit about flying with pets in the United States can help ease some of your worries. In this article, we will be discussing what your options are if you are flying with a big dog in the US.
Flying with a Large Service Dog In The US
Though service dogs are protected by the US Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and are welcome to join you in the airplane’s cabin, there are still a few things you need to be prepared for when flying with a large breed. First of all, many airlines will request you fill out and turn in a couple of DOT forms.
Second of all, airlines may have a weight limit that even applies to service dogs. When this happens, even service dogs are required to fly as cargo. Before your flight, it’s important to ensure your dog is under the weight limit.
The ACAA allows airlines to require that service dogs be able to sit on your lap or fit in the space beneath your feet. If your service dog is a large breed, you may want to request an extra seat.
Some airlines will be sure to put you next to vacant seats whereas others may sell you two seats for the price of one. However, not all airlines will be so accommodating and, if your service dog is especially big, you may have to pay for two seats.
It’s important to address all of these concerns long before you show up at the airport for your flight. If you do not, you may find that the airline is unable to accommodate your service dog and your dog will either have to fly as cargo or you will need to reschedule your flight.
Flying with a Large Non-Service Dog
Unfortunately, large-breed dogs that are not service animals are typically not allowed in the airplane cabin. This includes an
emotional support animal. Your options will include flying your dog as either checked baggage or cargo.
Both provide a pressure and temperature-controlled space within the plane where your dog will be kept during the flight. However, many airlines will not allow pets to fly if the temperature outside is too cold or too warm. This is for your dog’s safety as they will be spending some time outside of temperature-controlled areas.
Flying your dog as cargo has a few advantages: the staff are trained to work with live animals, your dog can fly without you or on a separate flight if necessary, and your dog is not listed on your ticket but instead on a separate booking, which makes it easier to track and monitor their journey. Furthermore, cargo usually makes sure that animals are the last ones on the flight and the first ones off.
Checked baggage is much more affordable than cargo, but the employees attending to your dog may not have as much training for working with live animals. This option is also available only if you plan to be on the same flight as your dog. As baggage, your pet may spend more time on the tarmac than they would as cargo.
Though both options are viable, it is generally considered best to go with cargo if you can afford it. We would recommend that you call any airlines you may travel with and discuss how they handle pets on their flights.
Other Considerations
Make reservations for you and your dog at the same time to ensure there is space for the both of you.Try to book a direct flight as they tend to be less stressful for your dog.Make sure that your dog’s crate is approved for air travel.Remove your dog’s collar and leash once they are in their crate. This will prevent any possibility of asphyxiation.Training a dog to be comfortable in a crate ahead of time can help make the experience less stressful.Do not sedate your pet before a flight unless otherwise advised by a veterinarian.You will need to visit a vet within 10 days of the flight and provide the airline with a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.Limit your dog’s meal intake for 4 to 6 hours before the flight to decrease the chance of the dog pooping or vomiting in the crate.
Flying with Fido
Flying with your dog in the US can be stressful, so it’s important to have a general sense of what your options are. Whether you choose to fly your dog as baggage or cargo, they will be kept in a crate in a pressure and temperature-controlled area within the plane.
In the United States, service dogs are allowed to fly in the plane’s cabin with you, but for large breeds, you may need to book an extra seat. It’s always a great idea to contact any airlines you’re interested in and ask questions before booking so that you’ll know if they are a safe option for traveling with your pet.
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