Traveling With Dogs - Everything You Need to Know

Traveling is a great experience to share with your loved ones, but why does your best bud always have to be left out? Thankfully, that’s no longer the case as the cost of traveling with dogs has become less restrictive. How to travel with a dog might seem overwhelming, but all it really takes is some research and some patience to go over the details to make sure you have everything in order.

Here’s a complete guide with everything you need to know if you’re looking to take your dog along with you on your next trip.

Is Your Dog Ready to Travel?

A Yorkie in dog clothes, sitting on a suitcase. Photo by Cassidy Foton (CC BY 2.0)

A Yorkie in dog clothes, sitting on a suitcase. Photo by Cassidy Foton (CC BY 2.0)

Flying on a plane could be stressful for your dog, especially if it’s their first time. Unless yours is a service dog, most airlines won’t allow them to accompany you in the cabin. Instead, they will travel in a dog crate placed in the cargo hold.

Don’t worry, the plane’s cargo hold for live animals is pressurized and temperature controlled – just like in the cabin where you’ll be.

Nevertheless, you need to evaluate whether your pup is ready. According to the US Animal Welfare Act, dogs need to be at least 8 weeks old before flying on a plane.

If your dog is old enough, it would be up to you to evaluate whether or not they’re ready. Plus, if you have a senior dog or one with special needs, try consulting with your vet first if it would be a good idea to fly them.

Additionally, if your pup is a French Bulldog, a Pug, or one of the other flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds, make sure you’re aware of the risks. While many of them are strong enough to fly, airplane travel is more stressful to them than most other types of dogs.

Take a look at the concerns raised by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) as well as their tips on how to travel with a short-nosed dog.

Although you could probably go just about anywhere with your pup, the process will be different depending on your origin as well as your destination. Some places will be more difficult than others, so it might be best to choose holiday spots that you can enjoy with your dog, without the unnecessary inconveniences.

When selecting a destination for a vacation with your dog, research on their policies related to bringing your pet with you. Find places that don’t impose quarantine times and don’t have other stringent requirements. Also, check on allowable breeds as some countries ban certain types of dogs from entry.

If you're based in the United States, it's usually best to stick with interstate travel or a destination in Canada. That way, the time on the plane is short, and the regulations aren't too strict.

A woman enjoying a snowy vacation with her dog. Photo by Daniel Frank. (CC0)

A woman enjoying a snowy vacation with her dog. Photo by Daniel Frank. (CC0)

Finding Accommodations

Several dogs at a hotel lobby. Photo by the US Marine Corps

Several dogs at a hotel lobby. Photo by the US Marine Corps

It’s usually best to look for accommodations before you book a flight. That way, you can still change your destination if you don’t find an appropriate place to stay.

Thanks to the growing number of people who travel with their pets, there are now plenty of pet-friendly accommodations. But before you select one, make sure you ask about their pet policies.

Here are some questions you might want to ask:

  • How much do they charge per dog?
  • Do they require a pet deposit?
  • Do they have breed, size, or weight restrictions?
  • Are pet travelers limited to specific rooms or areas of the hotel?
  • Do they offer any in-room amenities for pets?
  • What amenities can you enjoy with your dog?
  • Could unattended dogs be left in the room?
  • Do they have pet-specific services?

If you’re traveling to or within the US or Canada, here are 5 guaranteed pet-friendly hotel chains you might want to consider:

1) Best Western Hotels & Resorts

https://www.instagram.com/p/BixtNsmggsu/

Best Western has over 1,600 pet-friendly properties not just in the United States and Canada but in the Caribbean as well. Depending on the location, you may enjoy dedicated dog walking paths or parks, waste facilities, and even restaurants. Generally, they allow two dogs, each weighing a maximum of 80 pounds. They do have pet fees and require refundable damage deposits, so make sure you get a breakdown of total costs before you book.

2) Fairmont Hotels and Resorts

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByTWrzsg1QH/

Fairmont properties are generally pet-friendly but check on the specific policies and services of each location to know exactly what to expect. In Fairmont Washington DC (Georgetown), for example, you're not charged extra when you're traveling with dogs. Plus, they welcome each pup with water and handmade treats.

In Canada’s Fairmont Chateau Whistler, there are plush dog beds, bowls, and baggies. There are even room service dog treats available. Plus, there are pet sitters to look after your pup when you want to take some time to pamper yourself.

3) Kimpton Hotels

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxIkZoSlZj2/

Kimpton takes their love for dogs seriously. Not only do their properties have resident dogs, but they also offer perks to pamper not just you but your furry friend as well. They provide plush pet beds, mats, bowls, poop bags, and a guide to all the pet-friendly activities you can enjoy nearby. Plus, they don't charge extra fees or require pet deposits. They also don't have restrictions on the number of pets you can bring or on their weight and size. In fact, they say, "If your pet fits through the door, we’ll welcome them in.”

4) La Quinta

https://www.instagram.com/p/BrYIC9GBdyz/

La Quinta has over 900 pet-friendly properties across the United States and Canada. Generally, they allow up to 2 pets in one room and don't require a pet deposit. Make sure to check their pet policies before you book. Better yet, give the exact property a call before you make a reservation.

5) Red Roof Inn

https://www.instagram.com/p/Be5mtyYFQn7/

The Red Roof Inn takes great pride in their pet-friendly policies. In most of their properties, pets are welcome to stay for free. All they ask is that you don’t leave your pup unattended and that you clean up after them. They even offer guides to accessible dog parks and other activities you might enjoy with your pet.

Figure out how you’re going to travel from the airport to your accommodations. Often, you can arrange for your hotel to pick you and your dog up. Otherwise, be sure to make arrangements for pet-friendly transportation.

An Australian Shepherd in a car with a suitcase. Photo by Alan Levine. (CC0)

An Australian Shepherd in a car with a suitcase. Photo by Alan Levine. (CC0)

Booking Your Flight

A Nova Scotia Duck Trolling Retriever in a dog bandana sitting by an airplane. Photo by Guilherme Frisoni. (CC0)

A Nova Scotia Duck Trolling Retriever in a dog bandana sitting by an airplane. Photo by Guilherme Frisoni. (CC0)

Once you have a destination and accommodations you're sure you and your pup can enjoy, it's time to book your flight. Don't book your trip online so that you can make sure your plane can accommodate your pup.

Some flights don't allow dogs, while others generally have limited space in their live animal cargo hold.

When choosing a flight, remember to consider the weather. In the summer, it’s best to avoid midday flights where it might get too warm in the cargo hold.

In the winter, avoid evening or early morning flights to keep your dog from getting too cold. Or, you can fit your pup in some weather-appropriate dog clothes to keep them comfortable during the trip.

When booking, it’s always best to do so over the phone, so you can select one that can surely accommodate your pup. Speaking with an airline representative will also allow you to ask all the questions you might have about flying with a dog.

Remember that different airlines will have different regulations, so it's essential to do your homework before you book. To help you out, however, here are 3 airlines that are generally recognized for their excellent service when traveling with dogs:

1) Delta

https://www.instagram.com/p/BOkWLJIAzl6/

Except for Hawaii and a few international destinations, Delta will allow you to take your pup as part of your carry-on luggage if they are small enough to fit in a dog carrier stowed under the airplane seat. That will cost anywhere from $75 to $200 per way, depending on your destination.

For larger dogs, Delta Cargo is a safe and reliable option for pet shipping within the US and some international destinations. Note that you may or may not be able to share a flight with your pup using this option.

2) Southwest Airlines

https://www.instagram.com/p/BeRDczAhKMa/

Like Delta, Southwest Airlines allows you to carry your dog in-cabin during your flight for as long as they’re small enough to fit in an appropriate dog carrier under the seat in front of you. Also, that’s limited to domestic flights. With the exception of service animals, pets aren’t allowed inside the cabin on international flights. They will be held in a separate pressurized cargo hold specifically for live animals.

The pet fare on Southwest Airlines is $95 each way. Keep in mind that they only allow up to 6 pet carriers in the cargo hold per flight, so make sure you book your spot in advance.

3) American Airlines

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bfb5GC7lGYs/

With the exception of snub-nosed or brachycephalic dog breeds, American Airlines allows you to travel with your pets within the United States and Canada, as well as several international locations. Note that restrictions vary per destination, so make sure you double check before you book.

Like other carriers, American Airlines will allow small animals in the cabin while larger animals will be held in the cargo area. Carry-on pets cost $125 per way, while checked pets cost $200 per way.

Once you've selected a flight and have booked your tickets, make sure you read through the fine print. Pay special attention to the pet policies, so you know what to expect and how to prepare your dog as well as yourself for the flight.

Not all dog carriers are allowed for pet travel, so make sure you know what you’re looking for before you buy one. Generally, you can just select one that’s labeled “airline-approved.” But to be absolutely sure, check the dog carrier requirements of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

IATA also has stringent requirements for travel crate sizing. To choose the right dog carrier size for your pup, get them to stand upright, and then take the following measurements:

A = Tip of the nose to base of the tail.

B = Elbow joint to the floor.

C = Width at their widest point (Usually across the shoulders)

D = Tip of the ear or top of the head (whichever is higher) to the floor.

Then, you can get the following minimum dimensions for your pet’s travel crate:

Width = C x 2

Height = D

Length = A + 1/2 B

Note: For snub-nosed dogs or brachycephalic breeds, add 10% to each of the dimensions.

By using these measurements as your minimum dimensions, you can make sure that your pet will be comfortable in the pet crate you choose. They will be able to lie down, sit up, stand, and even turn during the flight.

An Australian Shepherd puppy in an airline-approved travel crate. Photo by Tomasz Mikolajczyk. (CC0)

An Australian Shepherd puppy in an airline-approved travel crate. Photo by Tomasz Mikolajczyk. (CC0)

Get a Health Certificate

A dog getting a health evaluation at the vet’s office. Photo by Austin Community College. (CC BY 2.0)

A dog getting a health evaluation at the vet’s office. Photo by Austin Community College. (CC BY 2.0)

No matter where you’re going, a health certificate is always required. The date of the certification and what exactly it certifies will depend on the airline as well as your destination. Most require certificates issued within 30 days of your flight while others require certificates issued not more than 10 days from the flight.

Licensed veterinarians issue health certificates. These documents should clearly identify your dog and state that they are healthy enough to fly and are current with their vaccinations. Generally, it’s the rabies vaccine that’s almost always required.

If you’re traveling to, from, or within the United States, make sure to check this pet travel guide from the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). It contains all the health requirements to bring your dog to the specific destination you’re eyeing.

Think of the entire process of traveling with your dog and determine which parts your pup might have a hard time with. In many cases, those are things that you can train them for.

 

If your pup isn’t used to being in a dog carrier:

  • Get one in advance.
  • Place it in an area of your home where they can get used to its presence.
  • Keep the crate door open.
  • Don't rush things and allow them just to sniff around.
  • If they go in on their own, give them some dog treats. Otherwise, you can toss a treat in and let them go after it. Doing this will help them associate good feelings with being inside the crate.
  • Keep doing this for some time until you feel your pup is ready to be kept inside. In that case, close the door and give them a treat.
  • Wait a few minutes before opening the door to let them out.
  • Go for longer and longer sessions until they can be left unattended in the crate for hours.

 

For more tips, check out Crate Training 101 by The Humane Society of the United States.

A dog’s travel crate prepared with fleece bedding and a blanket. Photo by Chelsea Nesvig. (CC BY 2.0)

If your dog suffers from separation anxiety:

Helping a dog cope with separation anxiety. Photo by Jinx McCombs

Helping a dog cope with separation anxiety. Photo by Jinx McCombs

Find a room where you can leave your pup alone. This will work even better if you have your dog carrier around already. What you’ll do is stay in the room with your pup and progress through the following steps:

  • Walk towards the door.
  • Open the door and pretend to walk out but come back in and close the door.
  • Walk out and close the door behind you. Wait for 5 seconds before you come back in.
  • Leave them in the room for longer and longer periods until they’re no longer anxious about your absence.
  • Go through the same steps while they’re locked in their dog carrier.

Whenever they stay calm, give them a treat, so they know they're on the right track. Just remember that you shouldn't expect to do this all in one day. To make real progress, take things slowly and observe them carefully to see what they’re ready for. Eventually, you’ll be able to leave them for long periods without any fuss.

Check out the ASPCA’s tips for handling separation anxiety.

When everything is set and your travel date is approaching, there are just a few things you need to do before you enjoy what is likely to be your best holiday ever.

Prepare the Travel Crate

Make sure the dog carrier will keep your dog comfortable for the entire flight. Depending on your vet’s advice, you may want to fill up the food and water bowls inside. Plus, don’t forget to leave one of their favorite dog toys to comfort them during the flight. If you’re worried about your pup’s separation anxiety, it helps to leave one of your personal items in the crate so they can smell you even while you’re not around. Usually, an unwashed sweater or pillowcase works well.

For checked in pets, it also helps to prepare identification signs to stick outside the dog crate. That will help the airline as well as airport staff to quickly identify your dog and handle them properly if something doesn't go as planned. When preparing your sign, include the following details:

  • Dog’s name.
  • Breed
  • Flight number
  • Flight details (date, origin, destination, etc.)
  • Your full name
  • Your address at your destination
  • Your contact number

Additionally, attach a Live Animal sign on the outside of the dog carrier to make it clear to anyone who encounters it that a dog occupies the travel crate. Lastly, attach a sealed baggie containing a few biscuits and provide information about how many to give your dog in case of delays.

A properly labeled dog carrier. Photo by Chachacha369. (CC BY 3.0)

A properly labeled dog carrier. Photo by Chachacha369. (CC BY 3.0)

Pack for Your Dog

A Shih-Poo packing for their vacation. Photo by Twinkle Enyong. (CC BY 2.0)

A Shih-Poo packing for their vacation. Photo by Twinkle Enyong. (CC BY 2.0)

Now that you're packed for your flight, make sure you've also packed for the holiday itself. You'll need various things for your dog, depending on where you're going. If you're headed for the water, make sure you pack your dog's life jacket.

If you're headed for the slopes, see to it that you pack dog clothes to keep them warm. No matter where you’re going, though, you’ll need a good dog harness and a proper dog leash.

Additionally, don’t forget to bring their food and water bowls as well as their favorite dog toys. Check the regulations of the airline and your destination regarding dog food.

Some won’t allow you to bring dog food in, so you’ll need to buy when you get there. Otherwise, make sure you pack enough for your entire trip.

The best way to make your pup comfortable during their flight is to burn their excess energy beforehand. Give them a good, long walk or extend their playtime so they can just rest throughout the plane ride.

Tire Them Out

An Australian Shepherd knocked out from playing fetch. Photo by Alan Levine. (CC0)

An Australian Shepherd knocked out from playing fetch. Photo by Alan Levine. (CC0)

Give Them Food and Water

A Staffordshire Bull Terrier getting a drink of water. Photo by Staff Sgt. Gregory Brook.

A Shih-Poo packing for their vacation. Photo by Twinkle Enyong. (CC BY 2.0)

Some carriers require you to certify that your pup has been given food and water within 4 hours of the flight. Also, your vet might have special instructions about pre-flight feeding, so make sure you follow their advice.

Regardless of the requirements, you'll want to make sure that your dog won't starve or become dehydrated.

If you can, time the pre-flight meal and drink so they relieve themselves before boarding. That’s especially important for long flights where they might have to either hold it in or soil themselves.

In the US, larger airports are required to have service animal relief areas, where other dogs are also welcome if they need to relieve themselves before their flight.

Make Sure They Relieve Themselves

A Pug relieving himself on a pee pad. Photo by Charles Rondeau. (CC0)

A Pug relieving himself on a pee pad. Photo by Charles Rondeau. (CC0)

A man anxiously waiting for the plane to land so he can be with his dog. Photo by Gratisography

A man anxiously waiting for the plane to land so he can be with his dog. Photo by Gratisography

When you've already boarded and your pup is checked in, remind a flight attendant that you have a dog in the cargo hold. That's to make sure they pressurize the area accordingly. Getting assurance from the airline staff might also help you rest easy for the rest of the flight.

If you have your dog in the cabin with you, respect that not all passengers will be comfortable with the presence of a pet in their flight. Keep your pup under the seat and trust that the dog carrier you prepared will keep them comfortable.

Airlines usually take out luggage before live animals, so don’t be surprised if it takes a while for you to reunite with your best pal. If your flight was a long one, try to head for the pet elimination area and let your dog out. If not, they may be able to wait until you get to your accommodations.

A man removing a pet carrier from a plane’s cargo hold. Photo by Max Pixel. (CC0)

A man removing a pet carrier from a plane’s cargo hold. Photo by Max Pixel. (CC0)

A dog at the lobby of Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces. Photo by Heritage Hotels & Resorts. (CC BY 2.0)

A dog at the lobby of Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces. Photo by Heritage Hotels & Resorts. (CC BY 2.0)

As soon as you check in, let your pup out and take them for a walk. They might need to relieve themselves or simply stretch their legs. Besides, you must have missed each other too much during the flight, so it's an excellent way to start your holiday.

After all that, it’s time to enjoy everything you’ve planned for your adventure. Whether you’re vacationing as a grand way to celebrate your dog’s birthday or you just want to enjoy their company, you're sure to have tons of fun.

Undoubtedly, learning how to travel with a dog can get overwhelming. But once you’ve successfully traveled with your pet, the next time will be a breeze!