Traveling By Air And Advice For Pets
Written by zoe on June 15th, 2009 in Travel Tips.
Air travel is always on the increase and an astonishing number of us would like to fly with our dog. For many years families have chosen to take their family pet on road trips and camping vacations while leaving them at home when traveling abroad or when taking a flight. As air travel reduces in price the thought of taking our pet with us seems an attractive option. The article below takes a look at Pets, Air Travel, concentrating on travel in England, Scotland and Wales.
Pets, Air Travel, and the Airline Rules & Regulations
One of the imperative points to remember in connection with air travel and pets regulations and rules. In Britain there are a few laws which could apply, such as the “Safe Air Travel for Animals Act” (2000). Recently 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, incredibly importance that you check things with the airline before booking your tickets. Virtually all airlines now state clearly that all small animals will only be carried in suitable containers in the cargo hold. This is clearly far safer than taking the risk of an animal becoming distressed and causing a problem.
Even though any small animals or pets are now confined to the cargo hold some kind airlines will allow you to attend the pet being put onto and taken off the aeroplane. However it is crucial that, purchasing your tickets you make enquiries about this to the airline.
Other Important Considerations To Keep In Mind
1. Your Pet Container
It is most incredibly important that you choose a pet box of the correct type, weight and size for the creature that will be residing 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 larger the amount of excess room required.
2. Security And Safety Measures And Flying With Pets
At all times your pet carrier should be clearly visible to the airline staff to avoid loss, which is always possible with any air travel. All pet containers should be labeled clearly with both the destination and a return address and full contact details. Furthermore it is strongly advised that you include the details of another person in case of emergencies when you are unable be contacted. As well as attaching labels on the outside also consider the addition some to the interior. Furthermore go to some length to ensure that your pet has a close fitting collar with an identification tag or similar. The risk of loss is least during direct flights.
If it is within your budget it also well worth considering having your pet fitted with an electronic tag which is injected under the skin by a vetinary surgeon. As soon as you know when and the local you will be traveling to book an appointment at the vets (or at least telephone) as he will be able to give important advice on what the requirements are when flying to another area or country. Your pet may require inoculations and there may be other precautions or restrictions to think about.
Planning in advance is always the most intelligent approach and the simple fact that you are reading this article is a wise decision. By making sure you understand the pet air travel hints & tips included in this article and by seeking further hints and tips online and from your vet, you can make sure that you pet flies safely and securely while suffering the minimal amount of stress.