Flying with a puppy can be stressful for you, your puppy, and your fellow passengers, but it doesn’t have to be. Over the years I have learned what works and what definitely doesn’t. So, here are my tips for flying with a puppy in cabin.
Never take your puppy out of the carry-on
This is the hardest rule for me to follow on the plane.
I want to cuddle them and make them feel safe. Some flight attendants are really nice about it and let you open the door of the kennel so they can just hang out on the floor if you don’t have a seatmate. Others are very strict and give you the nastiest look and tell you not to if you unzip the kennel ever so slightly to stick your finger in to pet them.
A rolling bag is the only way to go
I’ve tried duffel style, backpack, and rolling kennels and I have to say that the rolling kennel is the best for when you have to hoof it across a major airport in a short amount of time.
Read More: Flying with a Puppy: 10 Things you Need to Bring
Pay no attention to the people that give you nasty sneers
People suck.
When your puppy is barking or crying on the plane, there is bound to be huffy, upset people. Just ignore them.
Collapsible bowls are amazing
Collapsible everything is amazing when you are traveling. It saves so much space! You can find water bottles, pet bowls, food storage containers, and more.
Be aware that if you have a water dog the bowls do collapse very easily and water will be everywhere. If it spills, it will dry, so don’t stress too much if your pup spills.
Some planes are hot
Check on your puppy often to make sure they are all right. If they are hot or excessively panting don’t be afraid to ring the flight attendant call button and ask for ice water.
Water
Even if the plane isn’t hot, don’t be afraid to ask for a cup of water for your pup from the flight attendant.
Food
If you have time during your layover, try to offer your pup some food. Don’t be alarmed if they don’t want to eat though.
Plan your layover accordingly
I usually don’t have enough time to trek across the airport to the animal relief room so I go for the closest bathroom and call it good.
Traning pads are good to have on hand
Do they pee on the training pads, rarely. More often than not, I have to mop up the mess with the pad as the puppy tries to play and run away from me.
Rescue Remedy
Rescue Remedy is an effective, all natural way to calm your dog or cat during stressful situations. It is not a sedative and is similar to people drinking chamomile tea for its relaxing benefits.
And remember to laugh at the idiots
People are stupid too. The following are things I have heard on various trips.
When the puppy was barking, someone behind me on the plane said, “Oh my gawd ♥ ♥ she has a kitty!”
When the puppy was whimpering on the jet bridge while I waited for my carryon. “Who has a bird in here?”
When I carry them over my shoulder because it’s easier to do it that way with a duffle bag and someone runs up and says, “Oh my gawd… is that a bear cub?” Occasionally when the puppy is black and white, I tell people I work for a zoo and that it’s a panda. They believe me.
And remember..
The safety and well being of your puppy comes before everything else.
Have you ever traveled with a puppy or dog as a carry-on? What are some of your tips?
And don’t forget to pin this post to come back to it later!
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