Flying with our 2 little dogs. We have never done it and are worried about them.?

Question

We have 2 little Dachshunds (15 pounds each). They are both young and healthy. We want to fly from Detroit to Birmingham, Alabama but we do not want to leave them home.

Should they be sedated? Are they kept warm? Do they have any lights where they are kept? etc, etc. Any particulary good airlines?

Answer 1

On sedation:

"I can not cite the exact reference (although I believe it was an AVMA Journal review), but
in the last couple of years a study was done on deaths of pets during airline flights. Something
like 90% of the pets that died had been sedated. The conclusion of the study's authors was that
sedation leads to a decrease in oxygen utilization. Since the cargo hold is pressurized at an
equivalent pressure to something like 8000 feet (so oxygen is decreased in the cargo hold
atmosphere, compared to sea level), this presents a problem for pets with any other problem
that interferes with oxygen utilization and makes them more likely to die during an
airline flight.

In addition, it has been noted that handling crates is difficult, even when airline personnel are
trying to be as conscientious as possible. It is inevitable that some crates will be dropped or
jostled and a pet that is not sedated is more likely to be able to react quickly to problems like
this and better able to keep its balance.

If sedation seems to be necessary (for some pets it probably is), then use about half the
recommended dosage, or less. It is a good idea to try the proposed dosage prior to the
flight and to try to use only enough sedative to produce slight drowsiness but no interference
with walking or moving. It can take a couple of tries to figure out what that dose is. " Mike Richards, DVM

If I were you, I would definately look into taking them into the cabin with you if you take them with you; I've read of animals dying in the "cargo" (they're not really kept with the baggage) bin.

Answer 2

I am from GB and what happens here is that they need a passport and vaccinations and microchip. thay have to gave a large kennel each, not together where they can stand and lie down with out being squashed up! they normally have heating just below cabin temperature and they are normally lights. Not sure about arlines in the UK I would say BA but in the US, no idea. I would give a light sedation if nervy dogs but sometimes it can make it worse, esp with some sedatives, so ask your vet. Hope that helps

Answer 3

Some airlines will let you travel with small dogs in carriers. Here is a great resource.

Think of this though - where would the dogs be better off? Would the trip cause a lot of stress?

http://www.bellaonline.com/ArticlesP/art3784.asp

Best of Luck

Answer 4

Most airlines will actually allow you to carry them onboard as carryons *in carriers, of course* and that is way more animal friendly than sending them through the hold. Talk to the airlines before you buy the ticket and see their policies.

Answer 5

NEVER SEDATE!!!!
It's DANGEROUS!!! Can KILL them!

Shipping is NO BIG DEAL! Tens of thousands of live animals are shipped DAILY worldwide.

ALL airlines are used to handling crated animals -that's their JOB!! Thy're PROS.
ALL have*800* numbers-CALL THEM!!!

Health certs MUST be obtained FROM A VET w/in ***10
DAYS****of the flight! nd the airline will give you all other REQUIREMENTS!-crate size,bedding,2 cups,etc.,etc.

The dogs don't know or care that they're flying...it's YOU that's freaking out...STOP IT!

Answer 6

im sure the dogs will be okay...people do it all the time...but u have to have good carriers to keep them in b/c i dont think they will let the dogs on if they are in something they can get out of quickly...

Answer 7

Traveling with your dog! from http://thedivadog.blogspot.com/


Taking your dog along can make the family vacation more fun for everyone, if you plan carefully. Here are some trip tips to make traveling with your dog enjoyable.

Health and Safety
Health Checks. Bring your dog to the vet's for a check up before going on an extended trip. Make sure all his vaccinations are up to date; shot records with you. Health certifications are required for airline travel.

To keep your dog healthy as you travel, bring along a supply of his regular food and some local, or bottled, water. Be sure to bring any medications he needs.

Crates

A crate is an excellent way to keep your dog safe in the car, and is required for airline travel. It can also keep your pet from getting into trouble in a hotel or at your host's home. Crates are available from most pet supply stores. Look for these features when purchasing:
Large enough to allow the dog to stand, turn and lie down.

Strong, with handles and grips, and free of interior protrusions.

Leak-proof bottom covered with absorbent material.

Ventilation on opposing sides, with exterior rims or knobs to prevent blocked airflow.

"Live Animal" label, arrows upright, with owner's name, address and phone number.

Stock the crate with a comfortable mat, your dog's favorite toy, and a water bottle, and your dog is ready to go.
Identification

In the event that your dog gets away from you on your trip, you can increase the chances of recovery by making sure he can be properly identified:
Make sure your dog has a sturdy leash and collar. The collar should have identification tags with the dog's name, your name, and your home phone number, as well as proof of rabies shots.

Consider a permanent form of identification, such as a microchip (see CAR).

Bring a recent picture of your dog along with you.
Traveling by Car
Get your dog used to the car by letting him sit in it with you without leaving the driveway, and then going for short rides.

Avoid car sickness by letting your dog travel on an empty stomach. However, make sure he has plenty of water at all times.

Keep the car well-ventilated. If the dog is in a crate, make sure that fresh air can flow into the crate.

Do not let your dog ride with his head sticking out of an open window. This can lead to eye injuries.

Never let your dog ride in the back of an open truck. This is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe injuries or death.

Stop frequently for exercise and potty breaks. Be sure to clean up after your dog.

Car rides are boring for everyone, so instruct your children not to tease or annoy the dog in the car.

Never, ever leave your dog unattended in a closed vehicle, particularly in the summer. See Summer Safety Tips for more information. If you must leave the car, designate a member of the family to stay with the dog.

By Plane
Each airline has its own set of rules for canine air travel. You should call for information and make arrangements well in advance of your trip.

All airlines require health certifications and proof of vaccinations.

Some airlines will not transport animals when it is extremely hot or cold.

Dogs must be in an airline-approved crate when transported as cargo. Small dogs may ride under the seat in a crate or carrier.

By Train, Bus and Boat

If you plan to travel by train or bus, you may be disappointed. Dogs are not permitted on Amtrak trains or on buses operated by Greyhound and other interstate bus companies. (Service dogs are permitted.) Local rail and bus companies have their own policies.

You may fare better if you're taking a cruise. The QE2 luxury cruiser, which sails from New York to England/France, provides special lodging and free meals for your dog. However, you should check the policies of the cruise line or ship you will be traveling on before making plans to take your dog on a cruise with you.

Lodging
Find out in advance which hotels or motels at your destination or on your route allow dogs. Many do not, or have size or breed restrictions.

If your dog is allowed to stay at a hotel, respect other guests, staff and the property.

Keep your dog as quiet as possible.

Do not leave the dog unattended. Many dogs will bark or destroy property if left alone in a strange place.

Ask the management where you should walk your dog, and pick up after him. Do not leave any mess behind.

Remember that one bad experience with a dog guest may prompt the hotel management to refuse to allow any dogs. Be considerate of others and leave your room and the grounds in good condition.