Airline Travel

So. you've decided to take your iggy on an airplane. Welcome to the wonderful world of traveling with your pet. Actually, taking your pet on vacation can be a lot of fun for you and your iggy. Here are a few tips for flying the friendly skies with your iggy at your feet.

BEFORE YOU GO:

Make sure to buy an airline-approved travel bag. These can be found at most chain pet stores, such as Petsmart, Petco, and Pet Supplies Plus.
While you want your iggy to be comfortable, remember that the bag must fit underneath the seat, so it should not be taller than 10 inches or so.
Airports are very busy and it is not a good idea to first introduce your iggy to its bag while you are stressed out and in the middle of the terminal. Set the bag out several days before you go and help your iggy get comfortable in it and around it using treats and/or toys. Use lots of praise when the iggy gets into the bag.
If you want, check with your veterinarian ahead of time to see if you can give your iggy something to slightly calm them during the flight. Many people use Rescue Remedy or very small doses of Benadryl or Dramamine. Many people use nothing at all. It is not a good idea to heavily sedate your iggy before a plane ride. They will be nervous and uptight anyway and the heavy sedation may only scare them further.
Do not allow your iggy to bulk up on food and water shortly before boarding the plane. If it is an early morning flight, it may be best for your iggy to skip breakfast until you arrive at your destination. It may seem unfair, but just think of how unfair it is for your iggy to be uncomfortable and unable to relieve itself once on the plane.
No matter what the airline says, make sure you have a current health certificate for your iggy that was issued no more than 10 days prior to your flight.
Some people have found a signed and dated letter from the vet approving the dog for air travel in cabin to be very helpful. It may seem like overkill, but it never hurts to be extra prepared. A sample letter is below:

I, (vet's name here), approve Italian Greyhound (dog's name here), owned by (owner's name here), for air travel in the soft-sided carriers s/he has provided. (Dog's name here) is able to move about and turn around in the carrier and will be able to rest comfortably in cabin, under the seat for the duration of the flight."
Consider bringing a printed copy of the airline's pet policy with you just in case there are any disagreements at the airport.

AT THE AIRPORT:

Make sure you are nice to EVERYONE. Remember, they are the ones that allow your iggy to get on the plane. Be nice and accommodating even if you have to bite a hole through your tongue.
Go to the check-in counter and pay the fare for your iggy. Do not attempt to sneak the dog on the plane.
Keep your dog calm at the airport. Do not let the iggy annoy other passengers or run around. Keep your iggy in your lap or on a leash.
Bring wee wee pads with you in the case that the dog has to relieve itself. Use them in the bathroom.

ON THE PLANE:

Get yourself and your iggy situation quickly. The less attention you draw to yourself the better.
Make sure your iggy is not kicked by other passengers trying to get to their seats. Many other passengers may not even realize there is a dog in your bag. You can easily protect your iggy from being kicked by placing your legs under the seat on either side of the bag.
Place the bag under the seat so that one of the mesh openings is facing you.
Bring small, easy to eat treats on the plane to reward your iggy for being well behaved.
Talk to your iggy in a reassuring voice to let them know that you are right there with them.
Once the plane is in the air some flight attendants will allow you to put the bag on your lap, possibly with the iggy's head sticking out. No matter what, always follow the flight attendants' direction even if it means putting your iggy back under the seat.
One person had much success with taking her shoe off and sticking her foot inside the bag. The touch and smell of the human helped to calm the iggy.

Provided by: Sarah Netter