Everyone who has a pet knows that taking a flight with their dog can be stressful for the animal. Vertigo-related problems could arise for travelers, and a bumpy flight could traumatize some people. So, just imagine how the pets might feel. When they fly alongside you, they experience a rush of anxiety similar to yours. Dogs on a plane require care.
Whether you are traveling domestically or abroad with your pet, flying with a pet is a completely different kind of experience, so it’s critical to keep your pet in a comfortable environment.
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You might be curious as to how stressful flying is for canines. This section of the guide will assist you in better understanding and caring for your pet while you’re traveling soundly and safely.
Can your dog’s ears pop on the plane? Are dogs affected by high altitude?
The answer is YES, your dog’s ears can pop at high altitudes like in the case of humans. And yet, this could mean a slight discomfort to real pain for your dog (to be clear, I have yet to exhibit any related signs after 50 flights in over five years, but again, every dog is different). Chewing toys may help relieve the discomfort in their ears. And, arf course, giving your dog a gentle ear rub always feels good – I know I love it! Due to the lack of oxygen, dogs CAN get sick from high altitudes; luckily, it’s not as common as it is for humans. Regardless, you must keep an eye on your dog at all times and monitor any behavioral changes.
What Makes Flying Stressful for Pups?
Dogs can become anxious when in an unfamiliar environment. Additionally, the various people and noises on a plane may stress out your dog, who may not enjoy riding in a carrier.
A dog gets anxious on an airplane because of the strange noises, bright lights, and too many people, as opposed to being in a familiar setting. Changing air pressure can also frighten puppies. Additionally, you might discover that dogs dislike temperature changes. So, to keep your dog warm, bring a blanket or ask the flight attendants for one.
Specific Tips for Reducing Dog Flying Stress
Professional travel blogger Kevin of kevmrc.com shared two strategies he employs when travelling with a dog in cabin.
Frequent Traveller Tip 1: Using a Calming Low Voice
I lean in close to the carrier and speak in a soothing tone to reassure him that everything will be okay. This is crucial when it’s noisy, like during takeoff and landing or when the cabin crew moves the beverage cart down the aisle. I put my hand inside the carrier because my dog responds better to gentle touches. ”.
Frequent Traveller Tip 2: Booking a Window Seat Helps
“Flying with a dog is a lot like flying with an infant,” You frequently get the middle seat, but if you have a choice, I always prefer the window seat because there are fewer distractions there. Due to the fact that most airlines only permit a certain number of dogs per flight, I make sure I have priority and carefully select my seat. ”.
“I want to make sure my dog doesn’t see or hear anything that might cause him to bark, and the farther away from the gangway I am, the less likely those risks are to occur.” ”.
Along with bringing your dog along as a carry-on, you should also pursue carrier training.
When traveling by airplane with a dog, their level of stress can be reduced with carrier training. About two months before you take your dog on their first flight, you should start training them. You must put your dog in a carrier every day for a couple of hours.
You can also leave your dog alone in a room every day for at least a half-hour.
Leaving some toys and snacks inside a carrier is a great idea. The treats will pique your dog’s curiosity about sniffing and exploring the carrier. Verify that the airline has also given the carrier you’re using the green light.
While your dog is inside, stroll around the house while holding the carrier.
FAQ
Is it cruel for dogs to fly?
Even when flying with a pet-friendly airline, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) advises against flying with large dogs that would need to be transported in cargo. Avoid taking your pet on an airplane unless they are small enough to fit under your seat, they advise.
Is flying in cabin stressful for dogs?
Dogs generally travel well and don’t require any special care or medication. However, when traveling by plane, some dogs go through a lot of stress. If your dog doesn’t travel well, talk to your vet about the best travel strategy.
Do dogs get anxiety from flying?
Most dogs find flying in airplanes to be an unnatural experience. A dog’s balance and their level of anxiety or unease can be affected by the air pressure alone. Although your dog has previously flown without incident, he may be reacting now for a number of reasons, including various smells, sounds, etc.
How stressful is flying for dogs in cargo?
However, there are a variety of factors, such as ongoing medical conditions or your pet’s personality, that may make you hesitant to put them in the cargo hold of an airplane. Any animal can find flying in the cargo to be a terrifying experience. It is turbulent, loud, and filled with strange sights, sounds, and smells.