As a doggie parent flying for the first time with my Shih tzu Samantha, I learned a few things to pass on to those of you considering taking your babies up in the air with you.
- Be sure not only to have the health certificate for your pet, but their actual vaccine booklet as well.
- When you get to the airport, check your bags first thing. Trust me, it’s way easier to deal with your pet when you have less to carry around.
- Before going through security, take your pet outside for one final walk-potty.
- If your pet hates the carrier, going through security is just going to suck. You have to take your pet out before the x-ray and then put him/her back in right after the x-ray. The struggle is real.
- While waiting for your flight, your pet has to remain in their carrier. I hid in a few corners with Sammers quietly on my lap or sitting next to me, airport personnel always found me.
- Have all your pets paperwork and booklet available when boarding. They will want to look at it before letting your pet board.
- Find your seat and get situated immediately. There is even less room when your pet is at your feet.
- Pray your pet doesn’t bark. Sammers barked a few times each flight. I bent over and gave a quick hello each time and all was good.
- Trying to get your checked bag from the conveyer with a pet is kind of a pain because of all the people crowded around. I set her down for one second to get my luggage, turned around, and found her rolling away, freaking out in her carrier. I felt terrible.
- Have water and her leash ready when you pass through those exit doors. Celebrate. You made it!
Would I travel with her again? The jury is still out on that one.
