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Air Travel: Consider These Possible Issues When Traveling With Your Dog
In some cases, air travel is a better way to get there. If your dog can fit in a traveling crate under the seat, she may be able to ride in the cabin. Larger dogs have to ride in the baggage compartment. Although baggage compartments are heated, they are not air-conditioned, and in hot weather dogs have been known to overheat while the plane was still on the runway. For that reason many airlines don't accept summer shipping. When you make your airline reservations, you must mention that you are flying with a dog.
Buy an airline-approved crate that meets certain specifications for size, strength and ventilation. If your dog is not crate-trained, set the crate up in your house well before your trip and get your dog used to eating and sleeping in it. Ready the crate for the trip by securing its fasteners super tight, adding bedding that can be thrown away at your destination if soiled, and finding a water bowl or bucket that won't spill and that your dog's head can't get caught in. You can hang a bucket from the crate door with an eyebolt snap. Fill the water bowl with ice that will melt en route.
Once at your destination, where will you stay? If you plan to stay with friends, ask beforehand if it will be Ok for you to bring your dog. Never show up with a dirty dog - or worse, one with parasites. Bring your dog's own clean blanket or bed, or better yet, a crate. Your dog will appreciate the familiar place to sleep and your friends will breathe sighs of relief. Even though your dog may be accustomed to sleeping on furniture at home, a proper canine guest stays off the furniture when visiting.
Do not allow your dog to run wild through their home. If your hosts have pets of their own, be sure your dog does not chase or fight with them. Walk your dog (and clean up after her) to make sure no accidents occur inside. If they do, clean them immediately and inform your host. Don't leave them any surprises! Changes in water or food, or simply stress, can often result in diarrhea, so be particularly attentive to taking your dog out often.
The number of establishments that accept pets decreases yearly. Please do everything you can to convince motel managers that dogs can be civilized guests. Leave your dog alone in a motel room only if you can afford to have the room refurbished after your dog has redecorated it.
The dog's perception is that you have left her in a strange place and forgotten her; she either barks or tries to dig her way out through the doors and windows in an effort to find you, or becomes upset and relieves herself on the carpet. That's one reason having a crate-trained dog (and a crate) makes travel so much better. You can leave her crated in the room, where she will feel secure and can't damage anything. She will probably take a nap and be nice and fresh and ready for an adventure when you return.
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