How to Keep Your Pup Safe and Comfortable during Airport Layovers

While road trips with pets are now quite common, traveling with them by air is much less so, thanks to the many challenges presented by commercial air travel. There isn’t as much enthusiasm among airports and commercial airlines to extend privileges to non-human companions that are not certified service animals, largely because of health and safety concerns. In most cases, the only way one could travel with pets is to keep them sedated in a crate in a pressurized cargo hold, which is not exactly ideal for pets and pet owners alike.

Still, despite the challenges and the added expenses, Americans as a whole are now traveling on planes with pets far more often than they used to. This can be partly attributed to a growing recognition of pet anxiety and a growing availability of pet-friendly travel options, as well as a large market for pet travel essentials like bulk collapsible travel cups, custom dog blankets, and more. If the airlines and airports aren’t exactly pet-friendly, at least, there are now more destinations that will accommodate pets, specifically dogs. They might even give your pup branded pet merchandise for you to take home as a keepsake.

Why Layovers Can Be Tough on Your Dog

Still, for many dog owners who do travel with their pups, one of the toughest things to deal with is the uncertain conditions that await their wards at airports, particularly during long layovers. With a destination airport, pet-friendliness is not that big a deal since you can generally just move on with the rest of your trip. Connecting airports can be a bit of a challenge, however, as you and your pup may be stuck in a noisy, unfamiliar environment with limited pet-friendly amenities.

What’s more, it’s not unusual for layovers to stretch for hours or perhaps even days. Connecting airports also tend to be busy hubs, which can expose you and your dog to multiple stressors like crowds and loud announcements. Even if you expect a smooth trip overall, having a plan to ensure your pup’s well-being in strange places should be a priority. Let’s look at some of the key strategies you can try to keep your pup in good shape:

1) Choose Pet-Friendly Airlines and Airports

Before booking, take all the time you can spare to research airlines that offer the best conditions for pet travel. Specifically, you want to make sure that the airline and the airport will give you access to your pets during your layover. You can also prioritize airports with pet-friendly facilities to make the stopover more manageable.

2) Keep Your Pup Properly Crated

Invest in a sturdy, well-ventilated travel crate that’s comfortable, appropriately sized, and compliant with airline regulations. You might be unable to access your pet for several hours, so be sure to include familiar bedding and toys to keep them comfy and to mitigate their anxiety. These will be especially important if your connecting airport does not allow pets to leave their crates for extended periods.

3) Pack Your Dog’s Essentials in a Carry-on Bag

You might not be able to access your checked-in luggage during your layover, which means you must bring a carry-on travel bag with your dog’s essentials. Include collapsible water bowls, food, a leash, waste bags, wet wipes, and an extra familiar blanket in case it gets chilly. Having these things on hand will allow you to be a bit more proactive in keeping your dog comfy during the layover.

4) Take Advantage of Pet Relief Areas

Fortunately, virtually all major airports now offer designated pet relief areas, with many even including nice outdoor facilities. Upon arrival, locate the nearest pet relief area and give your dog a chance to stretch and relieve themselves before boarding your next flight.

5) Stay Hydrated and Fed

Cargo cabins can be exceedingly dry, so you must offer your dog water whenever you can. However, don’t give them heavy meals since the stress of travel may affect their digestion.

6) Take Steps to Calm Your Dog’s Anxiety

Some dogs are more prone to anxiety, especially in unfamiliar environments. Talk to your vet about using remedies like calming sprays or anxiety wraps to help soothe your dog during layovers. If your vet recommends a pharmacological intervention, make sure that the medications are legal to bring to both your layover and final destinations.

7) Take All Opportunities to Exercise

Lastly, take your dog for a walk or play with them before your flight and during layovers to expend any built-up energy. Your dog is probably going to be calmer and less skittish if you get them tuckered out.

Kit Out Your Jet-Setting Pet with PrideBites Accessories

Even today, traveling by air with a pet is not going to be a walk in the park. Thankfully, these tips will make your next jet-setting adventure far easier on your furriest family member. Do your due diligence and keep your dog active and hydrated, and you’ll soon be off to better times at your destination.