In today’s busy world, pet owners often find themselves traveling from California to New York and back again on a regular basis. This often leaves your little dog all by themselves at home, with strangers at a kennel, or anywhere but where you are.
Why? Often small breed dogs such as Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Teacup Poodles go everywhere with you in your personal and professional life, why not on business trips?
Products such as specially made back packs, roller bags, and other carriers have been approved by airlines for in-cabin carry-on luggage and can safely house your dog. While you cannot put a dog over 15 pounds in these carriers, the smaller breeds are often more than welcome on most airlines on domestic flights. You can find these carriers online or at your local pet boutique in Fort Lauderdale.
Can I just bring any dog with me or do I have to buy them a ticket?
There are many rules that need to be followed carefully when bringing your pet with you on a flight. While every airline has their own rules, there are some rules that are seen throughout most airlines:
• Destination restrictions can and do apply.
• Only a certain number of pets may be brought on the airline per person.
• The carrier must fit the standard carry-on dimensions.
• The number of pets on the flight will be limited.
• The pet must be contained in their carrier when on the airplane.
• The pet must comfortably fit in the carrier that must fit under the seat ahead.
• There are often breed restrictions
• There is often a charge involved.
• There is often a minimum age for pets to travel.
Where do I get the carrier?
After booking your flight and being approved for travel, it is important to know what the airline requires regarding the kennel construction. Many in-cabin regulations are more lenient than if they are checked into the cargo area of the plane. For instance, you can often use a soft-sided carrier in the cabin but you can never use those in the hold. The carrier must have adequate ventilation, and the pet must be able to turn around and lie down in the kennel comfortably without touching the top.
Most pet boutiques in Fort Lauderdale will have these carriers in stock and often they will be able to tell you what your airline will or will not approve. If you bring your pet along with you, you can also put them inside of the kennel to ensure that they are comfortable, and you can purchase accessories that will make your pets travel even more comfortable.
Don’t they just have kennels at the airport?
Not always, and the ones that they have are often for check-in only and do not fit in the cabin. It is important to purchase your pet’s kennel prior to arriving at the airport to ensure your pet’s comfort, safety, and in-cabin approval.
If you show up and you do not have a kennel, you may have to check your dog in, leave and purchase a kennel elsewhere, or you may be forced to either leave your dog behind or be denied your flight. Airlines are not required to allow you to board with your pet loose.