what is the best way of taking a small dog overseas on a 14-15 hour flight?

Question

i'm moving overseas for a couple years and will be taking my dog (maltese) with me. what i'm worried about is the 15 hour flight time. i have no experience of transporting a dog on such a long flight. i'm worried that the dog will be terrified during flight. is sedating the dog ok? anybody with experience with dogs on flights will be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

I've traveled by air with my dogs on short flights, but never anything close to what you are going to do. I hope to god this is a non-stop flight? The cargo area may become too warm if you have to sit on the tarmac during stopovers, especially in the summer. Give a cute photo of your dog to the pilot, along with a friendly letter reminding the crew that your little pal is flying in there. Also, take extra photos of the dog in case he is lost and you have to make up posters to get him back.

Make sure the crate is secure - add extra flat nylon straps around it to keep it closed. If it has bolts, like a vari-kennel, put a drop of elmer's glue on each nut to keep it from vibrating off. Put your name, address and contact information (including your complete itinerary and flight numbers) securely taped in at least two places on the crate and a buckle collar and tags on the dog as well. Be sure to include a local emergency number where someone reliable can be reached at all times.

If he has to fly in cargo, get a bigger crate than you would normally use. Cover the bottom with newspaper that will absorb any accidents he is bound to have. Then add a layer of shredded newspaper on top of that to keep him as clean as you can. Make sure there are at least two or three water bowls securely bolted on. And you can add an extra bottle of water like they use for hamsters and guinea pigs. Do NOT tranquilize a dog traveling in cargo - he can overheat and die, and when it wears off he can go ballistic.

If he's going to be under your seat, get some tranquilizers from the vet and give them as often as prescribed to keep him calm and quiet, so he doesn't disturb the other passengers. Don't feed him before you go and don't give him too much water. You can use a doggy diaper to absorb any accidents.

Also, check for any health certificate or quarantine requirements.

Answer 2

I just took my dog on a 10 hour flight. What they do is they sedate the dog for you. Then he sleeps through the whole trip. You do have to put food water in his kennel. I reccomend putting a treat and toy in his kennel to.

Answer 3

If you can, take it with you in the plane in a travel bag. I took my dog from WA state to Germany and it made all the difference her traveling with me instead of in the luggage compartment. Other dogs were barking and scared. Sedating your dog is good only if it experiences motion sickness. Talk to your Vet..

Answer 4

Ask your vet he has the best answer.

Answer 5

try cryogenically freezing it.