Flying With an Elderly Dog: Everything You Need to Know
Your senior furry buddy holds a special place in your heart. It would be almost impossible to think about traveling without him by your side. Due to their age-related needs, senior dog travel is different from traveling with a youthful canine. An awareness of what they need and the rules will help make the trip more comfortable.
We have prepared crucial information to help you prepare checklists and plan a smooth trip. But first, let’s get the age thing correct.
At what age is your dog regarded as elderly?
Your dog might be energetic and enthusiastic - hardly what you may consider elderly. So, you could be wondering if they qualify as elderly. Like humans, dogs do not have an age to be regarded as elderly. It varies depending on several factors. However, dogs have a general trend. Larger breeds like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Rottweilers tend to have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds like Yorkies, Corgies, and the various French Bulldog breeds.
Generally, a healthy dog would be tipping into its senior years after their seventh birthday.
Spending more than six years with your furry buddy means you share a special bond and know your dog’s behaviors and issues. For example, if your dog has anxiety issues, there is a likelihood of incontinence. Lining the travel crate with puppy pads should be on your checklist. You can also include other measures like canine antidiarrheals in your travel essentials.
Knowing more about your furry buddy, the trip, and the destination will help you plan and enjoy the trip. Here is what you should know.
A vet is a crucial partner
Most destinations require a health report (including vaccines) of animals flying in. A vet will not only help you prepare by providing a comprehensive health report, but they can also advise on how to take care of your dog during your stay.
For example, they may recommend that your dog takes anti-anxiety medication or CBD oil. Companies like Honest Paws sell CBD oil for dogs but speak to your vet first to ensure your pup is taking the right dose. You should also see how the medication affects your pup before the flight. This ensures they won’t get sick or have an adverse reaction on the plane.
Also, ask your dog’s vet to recommend a counterpart at the destination.
Positive association with the crate is essential
Prepare your furry buddy by helping them develop positive associations with the travel crate. It will make them more comfortable during the flight. Just ensure that the carrier is IATA-approved and there is plenty of ventilation.
If you feel that cargo travel would be too much for your furry buddy, check out airlines that would allow your pet to travel in the cabin. But remember, in-cabin pet travel could cost more, and it does not mean your dog can get lap time.
An early start makes things much easier
An early start in planning is crucial. There are several factors to consider, including paperwork for the dog, food, and other special needs like medication and destination regulations. Check the pet-related rules of your destination. For example, rules on identification, microchipping, and caregiving.
Since senior dogs often have several health issues, they may be subject to special rules. You may need to start planning earlier than it would be for a youthful canine.
Consider your dog when planning the flight
Check out the airline and see if they are pet-friendly. Plan the flight with your dog in mind. If possible, avoid long flights and layovers. Plan to travel with direct flights and when the traffic is lower. Also, avoid traveling during extreme weather like hot summer days or cold winter mornings. Some airlines suspend animal travel during odd weather seasons like hot summers. If you opt to fly the dog in the cargo hold, check the crate size and standards.
All this planning might seem difficult, but it is crucial for a stress-free experience. Plus, it’s not so complex if you have an experienced hand to help you.
Learn your destination’s animal rules
Every jurisdiction has rules about shipping live animals, and the authorities expect 100% compliance. Some destinations may require quarantine, and others may require special vaccinations. There could be special rules regarding animals from your jurisdiction.
The point is, there are many rules, and you should know and comply with them.
Sedation is not a good idea
Sedation may seem like a good way to avoid anxiety and other travel stresses that could affect your dog. But it is not recommended. It could affect your dog adversely. Organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association do not recommend it. Talk with the vet about it if you strongly feel your dog needs it.
Conclusion
Flying with your senior furry buddy may seem like a hassle, especially when considering traveling outside the country for a holiday. But because of the special bond you share, it is worth every effort.
Knowing more about the flight, destination, and your dog’s health will help you plan better and have a stress-free trip. You can also consider hiring a reputable pet relocation service provider and make it easier.
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