Plane-travel-with-your-dog

Plane travel with your dog in India and Abroad

If you’re considering a plane travel with your dog, there are a few things you need to know first. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect when flying with your furry friend.

What are the rules for flying with a pet?

When flying with your pet, there are a few things to remember. First, check with your airline to see if they allow pets on board and what their specific rules are. Some airlines will only allow small dogs in the cabin, while others may not allow any pets at all.

Once you’ve checked with your airline, ensure you have all the paperwork for your pet. This includes an up-to-date vaccine record and a health certificate from your veterinarian. You’ll also need to bring along a carrier that meets the size and weight requirements of the airline.

When it’s time to board the plane, keep your pet close by and follow the crew’s instructions. Keep your pet in its carrier during takeoff and landing with the door closed. And be prepared for extra attention from your fellow passengers – after all, who doesn’t love a cute puppy or kitten?

Which airlines allow dogs in India?

Many airlines have policies regarding traveling with pets, and it is important to be aware of these policies before booking a flight. Currently, only Air India permits pets in the cabin if the animal and its container weigh less than 5 kg when combined. Pets are not permitted on flights with certain other airlines, including AirAsia, Vistara, SpiceJet, and IndiGo, with the exception of support animals for those with disabilities.

The pet must be appropriately transported in a kennel or soft ventilated bag that fits the requirements (kennel dimensions cannot exceed 18″ x 18″ x 12″). For carriage in the cabin, the weight of the pet, including the container, should not be more than 5 kg. Larger and heavier pets will be transported in the cargo hold. For travel, dogs and cats must be at least eight weeks old. Pets during pregnancy won’t be accepted.

A maximum of two pets are allowed in the cabin each trip, one in the final First/Business class row and one in the final Economy class row, both with the accompanying passenger.

When traveling with a pet, it is important to book your flight in advance and contact the airline to ensure that they are aware of your pet’s presence. It is also important to have all the necessary paperwork for your pet, including vaccination records and a health certificate from a veterinarian.

The flight charges for pets in India

For cabin carriage, the combined weight of the pet and the container cannot exceed 5 kilograms, and the pet flight cost is Rs 1,200/kg plus taxes.

Policy for Carriage of Pets on International Flights

If you are wondering, “Can I take my dog to Canada from India?” then you need to understand the International Flights rules. 

Pets such as dogs, cats, house birds, and other animals will provisionally be accepted for carriage with the carrier’s prior consent and subject to the carrier’s rules when properly crated and accompanied by valid health and vaccination certificates, entry permits, and other documents required by countries of entry and/or transit.

Before beginning their journey to India, all travelers planning to bring pets as checked baggage into or out of India from/for any country must abide by all applicable laws and obtain a No Objection Certificate or Pre-import Clearance from the Animal Quarantine & Certification Service (AQCS) in India.

Weight restrictions apply; the pet’s total weight plus the weight of the kennel or cage cannot exceed 32 kg. Pets MUST be booked as cargo only for weights greater than 32 kg.

A maximum of two animals, either pet to be checked as luggage or assistance dogs, are allowed per flight, provided they have the appropriate health records and No Objection Certificates. This regulation applies uniformly to all flights.

All information must be formally certified or included in the official Health certificate. The dog and cat (three months of age and older) must be immunized against rabies for more than one month but within 12 months prior to the actual embarkation. The official Health Certificate must also include all other vaccination records and details that have been formally certified.

Policy for Pet Carriage on India-USA-India, India-Canada-India Flights Route

Pets cannot be transported on Air India nonstop flights between India and the United States, Canada, and India. The sole exemption would be service dogs, which are allowed in the cabin and are needed to help the blind or deaf.

Subject to the laws of the destination nation and any en-route transiting nations, the current policy shall continue to apply to all other international flights operated by Air India.

Pet transport into the UAE

Pet animals must be transported into the UAE by plane in compliance with the terms and regulations of the IATA Live Animals Regulations (LARS) and not as checked baggage.

Pet transport into Sri Lanka

Imports of live animals, particularly dogs and cats, along with passenger luggage, are currently suspended.

Importation is nevertheless permitted via air cargo.

Pet transportation into the UK and Germany

AIR INDIA is not permitted to transport LIVE ANIMALS (including Service Animals) into or out of Germany or the United Kingdom, either as checked luggage or as cargo.

How to keep your dog calm during the flight

If you’re like most dog parents, the thought of taking your furry friend on a plane can be a bit daunting. But with a little preparation, you can make the experience much less stressful for you and your pup. Here are a few tips to keep your dog calm during the flight:

  • Get them used to their carrier: If your dog isn’t used to being in a carrier, it’s important to get them accustomed to it before the flight. Put their favorite toy or blanket in the carrier and let them explore it on their terms. Leave it out in the open, so they can get used to it being around.
  • Keep them hydrated: It’s important to keep your dog well-hydrated during travel. Bring along plenty of water and offer it to them frequently throughout the journey.
  • Avoid feeding too close to the flight: You don’t want your dog to get sick mid-flight, so avoid feeding them a big meal right before boarding. A light snack is fine, but try to give them their main meal several hours before the trip.
  • Don’t forget the potty break: Make sure you take your dog for a potty break before boarding the plane. This will help reduce their anxiety about being in an unfamiliar place.

What to do if your dog gets sick while traveling

If your dog gets sick while traveling by plane, there are a few things you can do to help them feel better. First, try to identify what is causing the sickness. If it is something like anxiety or motion sickness, some over-the-counter medications can help. You may need to take your dog to the vet if the sickness is more serious.

If you think your dog may be sick, watch for signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If your dog is showing any of these signs, it is best to err on the side of caution and take them to see a veterinarian. They can determine if the sickness is serious and provide treatment if needed.

Generally, it is always best to be prepared when traveling with your dog. Make sure you have their vet records and contact information in case you need them. It is also a good idea to pack any medications they are currently taking, just in case, they get sick while on the trip.

Tips for a smooth travel experience

  1. Get your dog accustomed to their carrier before travel. This will make it much easier for both of you when it comes time to get on the plane.
  2. Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date, and you have copies of their records with you. Many airlines will require this before allowing your pet to fly.
  3. Book a direct flight if at all possible. This will minimize your dog’s time in the airport and on the plane.
  4. Choose a seat in the cabin where your dog will have the most room to stretch out and be comfortable. An aisle seat often works well for this.
  5. Pack plenty of food and water for your dog and any medications they may need during the trip. It’s also a good idea to pack a favorite toy or two to help keep them occupied during the flight.
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