All the useful information for traveling by plane with your dog

Traveling is one of the most beautiful and enriching experiences one can have in life. However, when you have a dog at home, the thought of leaving it behind can be discouraging or even make you lose the desire to travel. Here’s a mini guide for anyone who wants to take a trip by plane with their dog.

First of all, we can reassure all pet owners that dogs can travel safely by plane in the cabin with them. The key is to choose an airline that allows this and to follow some behavioral guidelines both in the cabin and at the airport.

At the airport with the dog

The rules are quite simple:

• Dogs must be kept on a leash, preferably with a muzzle.
• Always keep your dog’s care and respect for public space supplies on hand: bags, dustpan, paper towels, water and food.
• If the dog’s size allows, bring a carrier with you.

Rules for bringing your dog in the cabin

Each airline has its own regulations, but here are the most important rules that generally apply to all airlines, ensuring a comfortable journey for our four-legged friends.

• Your dog must weigh no more than 10 kg, including the carrier. Be careful with some low-cost airlines that only allow pets weighing up to 6 kg.
• The dog must stay inside the carrier, where it should be able to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably.
• The carrier should be lined with absorbent material, and the bottom must be waterproof.
• Throughout the flight, the dog cannot leave the carrier, except in emergencies or with the consent of the other passengers and the pilot.
• The standard maximum dimensions for the carrier are 46 x 25 x 31 cm.

Necessary documents and costs

Your dog will need a European passport, which certifies that all vaccinations are up to date. Make sure to check the rules for your destination, as some countries may require special documents or vaccinations.
The cost can vary depending on the airline. It can range from as low as €20 for short domestic flights to around €300 for larger dogs on intercontinental flights. On average, the price to take a dog on a plane is between €50 and €150.

Tips before you leave

Flying for the first time can be overwhelming for many people, and the same goes for dogs. Just like humans, there are good practices to make the journey more pleasant, and we can prepare our dogs for the experience ahead. Here’s a simple guide:

• Help your dog get used to the carrier in the days leading up to the flight. Let them have a few meals inside it.
• Pack your carry-on carefully, and don’t forget to include a pack of wet wipes and some absorbent paper.
• Bring a 100 ml plastic syringe without a needle; it can be useful for giving your dog water during the trip.
• Don’t forget to bring their favorite toy.
• It’s best to avoid feeding your dog in the hours right before the flight.
• Take your dog for a long walk before entering the airport.

If you’ve decided to take your dog with you on your trip, make sure to plan well in advance and thoroughly research the airline’s rules and the regulations of your destination country. If you’re traveling outside the Eurozone, or if you are entering it, it might be helpful to exchange currency before you leave so you have cash available as soon as you arrive. With Forexchange services, you can book foreign currency online and conveniently pick it up at the nearest Forexchange branch, even at the airport and major Italian railway stations.

Photo Credits:
Victor G, Unsplash