Air travel is always on the increase and an staggering number of us would like to fly with our dog. For years families have elected to take their family pet on road trips and camping vacations while leaving them at home when traveling internationally or when taking a flight. As air travel becomes cheaper the thought of taking our pet with us seems a affordable option. The article below takes a look at Pet Air Travel concentrating on traveling in England, Scotland and Wales.
Air Travel, Pets, and the Airline Regulations & Rules
One of the imperative things to remember in respect of air travel and your pet regulations and rules. In Britain there are a number of laws which could apply, such as the “Safe Air Travel for Animals Act” (2000). In recent years there has been an increase in security and where you once may have been allowed to carry small pets with you on a flight this may no longer be the case. It is, therefore, of vital importance that you check things with the airline before booking your tickets. Virtually all airlines now state clearly that all pets and small animals will only be carried in suitable containers in the cargo hold. This is clearly much safer than risking a pet becoming distressed and causing a problem.
Even though all small animals or pets are now carried in the cargo hold some caring airlines will permit people to attend the animal being put onto and taken off the aeroplane. However it is crucial that, when making a booking you make enquiries about this to the airline.
Other Important Factors To Keep In Mind
1. Your Pet’s Container
It is also of the uppermost importance that you choose a pet box of the correct weight, type and size for the animal that will be living in it for the length of the flight. There should always be sufficient surplus space for the pet to be able to move about easilyat all times. The longer the duration of the flight the greater the amount of excess room needed.
2. Security And Safety Measures And Air Travel With A Pet
At all times your pet container should be clearly visible to the airline staff to avoid loss, which is always possible with any air travel. All pet carriers should be marked clearly with both the destination and a home address and full contact details. Also it is strongly advised that you include the details of a further person in case of emergencies when you can’t be contacted. As well as attaching labels on the exterior also consider including some to the interior. Also go to some length to make certain that your pet has a collar that is not loose with an ID tag or similar. The risk of loss is least during direct flights.
If it is within your budget it also worth considering having your animal fitted with an electronic tag which is injected beneath the coat by a vetinary surgeon. As soon as you know when and the local you will be traveling to book an appointment with your vet (or at least telephone) as he will be able to give important advice on what the requirements are when traveling to another area or country. Your pet may require inoculations and there may be other restrictions or precautions to consider.
Planning in advance is always the best approach and the very fact that you are towards the end of this article is a wise decision. By making sure you understand the pet air travel tips outlined above and by seeking further hints and tips online and from your vet, you can make certain that you pet travels securely and safely while suffering the minimal amount of disturbance.