What should I do if my dog freaks out while we are on an airplane?

Question

I'm taking a trip across the country with my Shih Tzu and my vet suggested not giving her sedatives. What can I do to keep my dog calm?

Answer 1

The best thing we have found with our Shih-Poo was to keep her favorite toy with her in her carrier and hold her on your lap while in flight. You can then put your hand in with her and that will help keep her calm. You can also safely give a dog Benadryl and that will keep them calm and tranquil with absolutely no harm. My sister has a 12 pound Havanese and she needs to give her Benadryl each time they fly. Use a small dose about half the doe for an infant.

Answer 2

Check with your vet before you leave. He or she may be able to get you a mild tranquilizer. Otherwise, you can just sooth your dog in the same way you would if he/she were upset about something else...talking, petting, etc.

I recommend the mild tranquilzer though. It will not put the dog to sleep but will help ease the trip if you think that your dog will get anxious on the plane.

You may not even have an issue. My dog was not phased at all.

Best of luck and safe travel.

Answer 3

If it's a shih tzu you can fit his carrier under the seat. I don't think he will freak out. Most often when dogs are in unfamilier territory, they go quiet and not draw attention to themselves. That's instinct.

Answer 4

Tell your vet you want the sedatives. Unless there's a valid medical condition that prevents it.

Answer 5

I am a pilot and used to travel with my dog quite a bit. He would get very anxious, so I obtained a tranquilizer from my veterinarian which worked quite well.

Answer 6

The airliners don't allow pets on the plane. They will tell you to go and drop him or her off at home. Good Luck!!!

Answer 7

good luck,airlines do not allow pets on planes in the passenger area.call your airline first .

Answer 8

give her a couple of whiskey shooters...