We all love our furry companies and want to make sure they are safe and sound. However, sometimes we need to go away for a while and if you do not have anyone to look after your best friends, you’ll probably have to take them with you. Sometimes it is not even a matter of “must” and “mustn’t” rather we want to take them with us out of love. Whatever the case may be, in the text below find out everything there is to know if you plan on flying with your pet safe around the globe.
The necessity of flying
Firstly, there are several factors we have to consider before making the trip with our pet. Flying on its own can often be a stressful experience, as the pet is ripped away from its accustomed and natural surroundings into an unknown habitat. The turbulence, cramped spaces, the noise, the sounds and bright lights, the restricted movement, and non-existing bathroom breaks for pets. Not only that, consider how the high pressure and the change of climate can affect the pet’s metabolism; if we humans experience discomfort and nausea when going on a trip, imagine your dog or cat. One simple piece of advice is to consider all these options, and take your pet only when you do not have anyone to look after them or are moving to another place for good and you want to take them with you. Other than that, it might be wise to leave them at home for that time being.
Where will the pet be seated?
Another thing you should know is, where your pet will be seated once the plane takes off. If your cat or dog is small enough, it can go in the cabin with you, however, any bigger size and it will have to be in the “cargo” department with all the other “stuff”. Meaning your pet will have to spend the next several hours mostly likely in a badly lightened open space with a lot of noise and turbulence. One solution is paying a carrier agency like Pet Express for these occasions as regular airlines promise they’ll take proper care of the pet yet rarely do so. Most airlines lack the ability to transport a pet along with all of their other obligations, and pets are frequently uncomfortable throughout the journey, making themselves worried and uneasy. Also, think of exotic pets as well, as they require a different treatment and more care than usual. Pet Express and similar alike offer exactly that with a professional caring team and international “shipping” without the usual discomforts. Think of this before going on the flight as your pet will not share your enthusiasm like you.
A short trip to the vet
One smart piece of advice we can give you is to take your pet to the vet for a regular check-up. Make sure the pet is healthy and well-fed before the flight. Make sure to get all the needed vaccine shots if you are visiting any exotic destination as the pet might not have the same tolerance as you. Also, think of taking some vitamins with you just in case. Also, make sure to consult with the vet about the foods the pet can take while on the trip and what to do if their stomach shows signs of discomfort.
Another thing to consider is educating yourself on the importation laws of different countries, as some countries have stricter rules when it comes to importing anything, let alone a living creature. We all remember the little accident with Johnny Depp while visiting Australia, therefore it might be smart to check ahead just in case. The quarantine duration might vary from country to country, meaning you might be separated for long periods of time from your little friend, therefore plan ahead and make sure you know everything there is to know.
Reunite as quickly as possible
Once you finally arrive at the desired destination, make sure to reunite as soon as possible with your pet to prevent any sort of confusion. Take your bag and run to your cargo checkpoint as most airplane companies have a strict policy when it comes to this; most companies keep the pet for two to four arrives after landing, and if you do not make it in time, chances are your pet will go to the vet or a specified facility. Also, take it for a walk and make sure it gets some fresh air after it spent several hours on a flight in a closed space.
The overall costs of flying with your pet can vary depending on the arrangement and carrying fees. With exotic animals, it is often a higher price due to maintenance and more obligations and with dogs and cats, the price is around 150 pounds or dollars each way depending on the services. Our personal advice is to go for a carrier no matter the cost, as your pet will enjoy it and feel less discomfort.
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