Flying with a 100 lb. Rotweiller?

Question

Will be flying with my dog on Northwest/KLM. Because of her size she will have to ship cargo. I have heard arguments on both sides regarding the use of tranquilizers. I would prefer not to use drugs. Does anyone have any advice or experience flying with a large breed dog?

She was crate trained as a puppy and is already used to being crated. My biggest concern is other people being afraid of her because of her breed.

Answer 1

We had to fly a dog in cargo once. It sucks because you worry about your dog all flight. Our dog was fine when he came out. Be sure he's hydrated, don't feed him within 12 hours of the flight(that way he won't have to go poop as bad). Don't make a big deal out of it, so you don't get your dog worried.
Good luck!!!

Answer 2

Yes, but mine was a federal service dog and she slept at my feet the whole time. I would recommend not feeding the dog within 8 hours of flying and giving him a benadryll tablet 45 minutes before the flight to keep him calm. The vibrations from the planes can mess up the dogs receptical sense and cause him to be nervous. Benadryll is a mild sedative that will relax the dog without knocking him out.

Answer 3

I flew several times with my 140 lb. dog and nothing was adverse at any time. He didn't like the crate but that had nothing to do with the airline. I never used drugs. I think it may have to do with the dog's personality.

Answer 4

I do when I had to fly with my pitbull they wanted the dog to be asleep during the flight since he was a pitbull. So do what i did let them get to know your dog

Answer 5

Get the carrier ahead of time, introduce her to it and put a towel or blanket in for her to get comfortable with. Feed her in front or near it or in it.
On the day of the trip feed her far enough in advance of the trip to get her stomach clear (or if it is in the morning, not at all). Talk to your vet. If she panics in a car or in the carrier, then trank her, if not then don't.