February 2, 2011

Airline travel for your dog


At one time dogs were only allowed to be transported by plane in the cargo area of the craft. In older planes that meant the cargo area was not temperature regulated but was pressurized. It was often a cold journey for the dog. The dog was often treated like an old luggage set. Then came specialized animal airlines that catered to high priced pets and livestock. They commonly transported racehorses and zoo animals. Very often they had room for dogs and other pets in their airline. The advantage was that on long journeys the animals were accompanied by a vet during the flight. The tickets for such a flight was expensive to say the least.

Some airlines have allowed dogs in the cabin with their owners but the dog must be a small breed and the carrier fit in an area where it will not be in the way of the function of the flight crew or other passengers.


Of course if you happen to find an airline that allows you to have your small dog with you during the flight then you must know one thing.........never let your dog out of the carrier during the flight. No matter how tempting it is to give your pup a hug or let someone else hold him, don't do it. It is against airline regulations and could get you and your dog kicked off of the flight. The pilot has the authority to land at the next available airport and remove you from the plane.

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