Top Tips for a Stress-Free Pet Flight Experience

Preparing Your Pet for Air Travel

Flying with your pet can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can ensure their journey is as smooth and stress-free as possible. At SkyPaws UK, we specialise in creating tailored travel plans that prioritise your pet’s comfort and well-being. Here are our top tips to help your furry companion fly with ease.

1. Plan Well in Advance

Advance planning is key to minimising stress for you and your pet. Different countries have varying entry requirements, from vaccinations to quarantine rules. Start researching your destination’s pet travel regulations early, and allow plenty of time to gather the necessary documents.

Tip: Book your pet’s travel as soon as possible to secure the most direct flight with a trusted airline that specialises in pet transport.

2. Choose the Right Crate

Your pet’s travel crate is their safe space during the journey. It must meet airline-approved specifications, provide enough room for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Tip: Introduce crate training well in advance to help your pet feel comfortable. Placing familiar bedding is inside is allowed, and can provide extra comfort. 

At SkyPaws UK, we also treat our bespoke crates with pheremone spray, to help produce a calm environment.

3. Prioritise Your Pet’s Health

Schedule a veterinary check-up before travel to ensure your pet is fit to fly. Many countries require a health certificate issued by a vet within a specific timeframe before departure.

Tip: Discuss anxiety management strategies with your vet, especially if your pet is prone to stress.

Your pet is not allowed to travel while under any sedative medication. However, there are some medications that can produce calming effects if used regularly in the run up to, and following, pet travel. These medications must be prescribed by your veterinarian, and must be administered for a minimum of 6 weeks consecutively in the run up to their departure date. It is also helpful to consider a schedule for after your arrival at destination, to help them settle in.

4. Maintain a Routine Before Travel

Try not to change your pet's routine whilst you are preparing to travel and packing up your belongings. This helps reduce anxiety and ensures they’re calm before the journey.

Tip: Offer your pet a small meal a few hours prior to departure to reduce the risk of travel sickness and them needing to go to the toilet in their crate. 

If you are travelling with your dog, make sure they have had some exercise before they come to check-in. This helps them to relax and even have some sleep on their flight. 

5. Stay Calm and Positive

Pets often pick up on their owner’s emotions. By remaining calm and positive, you’ll help your pet feel more relaxed too. 

Tip: If you have a trusted friend or family member who usually looks after your pet when you are away, it can be worth sending your pet to them for a few days prior to travel if you are packing up your house. This can limit anxiety in the lead up to departure. 

7. Work with a Trusted Pet Travel Expert

Partnering with an experienced pet travel consultant, like SkyPaws UK, is mandatory for most pets departing the UK, due to airline rules. We handle everything from flight bookings, paperwork compliance and home collection, to crate guidance, veterinary requirements and destination services, ensuring your pet’s journey is stress-free. This also ensures that all regulations are met and pets can fly as safely as possible.

If the airline you want to travel with allows direct bookings from pet owners, or you are travelling on a private aircraft, always make sure you do your research thoroughly before booking. At SkyPaws UK, we can offer a dedicated consultancy service for clients booking their own flights, to ensure all paperwork is accurate, compliant and completed on time. 

Post-Flight Care

Once you've arrived at your destination, take some time to help your pet adjust to their new environment. Offer them water and a light meal, and spend some time exploring the area together. This will help them feel more secure and relaxed.

Monitoring Your Pet's Well-being

Keep an eye on your pet for any signs of stress or discomfort after the flight. It's normal for them to take some time to adjust, but if you notice any unusual behavior or health concerns, consult a veterinarian promptly.

By following these tips, you can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for both you and your furry companion. A little preparation goes a long way in making your pet's flight as stress-free as possible.