Tips for Flying With a Puppy in Cabin
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!
First of all, your puppy is absolutely adorable! These are some really great tips. I’ve never personally flown with an animal, but someday might have to. We have, however, driven across the country (1600 miles) with a cat! That was an interesting experience!
Thank you!! I have thought about road tripping with my cat, but not sure it would go over well..
I love the story about saying your black and white puppy is a panda. That’s very creative. Travelling with a puppy sounds a bit difficult but your tips sound like they would help a lot..
It always amazes me what people will believe! It can be difficult, you just have to be patient 🙂
I had no idea you couldn’t take them out. Even on long flights? So you have any recommendations for dogs with anxiety?
Blu
http://Www.liveloveblu.com | wellness & healthy living
Not even on long flights 🙁
Definitely Rescue Remedy
https://amzn.to/2ugpDSd
These are fab tips for anyone who has no choice but to fly with their fur babies… But after seeing the heartbreaking stories the past few months in the news about airlines and fur babies….. I’d rather drive… 🙁
That is the great thing about having it as a carry-on. Even though it can still be stressful. You stand up for your fur baby. And if they say you have to do something and you know it is wrong, you tell them to f*ck off and that they will have to remove you from the plane. Maybe a wee bit more polite though 😉
Hi! Love your blog! Any hassles with TSA?
Thank you! TSA is really easy! Everyone ooo’s and ahhh’s over the puppy which is to be expected. You have to go through the metal detector lane carrying the puppy. After you go through, before you can claim your bags, they swipe test strips over your hands. I guess the only issue I have ever really had is when I have brought wet can food. They definitely don’t like that. It was years ago and that was enough of a hassel that I didn’t want to deal with that I stopped bringing canned food. If I remember correctly, I was allowed to bring it through once they thoroughly checked it over.
Great article! Thank you! What do you think about non vaccinated puppies in the dog relief areas
Hi Nicole! Thank you! 🙂
I think that all puppies should be vaccinated prior to ever getting on an airplane. Most airlines require that the pup be at least 10 weeks old and that is plenty old enough for the first round of shots. I think it is very irresponsible to not vaccinate.