Flight Travel Guide for Dog Parents in India

1. Choosing the Right Airline

• Common Airlines: Major carriers like Air India and Jet Airways accept pets. Budget airlines such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir may have limited pet policies.
• Booking Strategy: Book flights at least 4–5 months in advance, especially for busy routes like Delhi–Mumbai. Use travel platforms like MakeMyTrip, Cleartrip, or Yatra for better deals.

2. Preparing for Air Travel with Your Dog

• Review Airline Pet Policy: Not every flight or airline allows pets in the cabin or as checked baggage. Confirm policies and extra fees when booking.
• Documentation Checklist:
  • Updated vaccination and health certificates
  • Pet ID tag with your contact details
  • Airline-specific pet travel forms
• Crate Readiness:
  • Use an IATA-approved crate
  • Train your dog to feel safe inside it weeks before your journey

3. Before You Head to the Airport

• Arrival Time: Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic departures. Large airports often involve longer security queues.
• Check-In Requirements:
  • Boarding pass and valid ID
  • Printed flight ticket and all pet documents
• Security Process: Remove any metal items and place carry-ons (including pet items) in trays during security checks.

4. Travel Day Essentials

• Bathroom Break: Give your dog a walk and bathroom break just before entering the airport.
• Feeding Guidance: Feed your dog 3–4 hours prior to the flight to avoid nausea. Bring water in a spill-proof bottle.
• Comfort Measures: Place a familiar toy or blanket in the crate to reduce stress.

5. At Boarding and In-Flight

• Be on Time: Gates usually close 25–30 minutes before departure. Listen for boarding calls and have all documents ready.
• During the Flight:
  • Your dog must remain inside the crate at all times
  • Familiar scents or soft bedding can help ease anxiety

6. Post-Landing and Care

• Collect Your Dog: Retrieve your dog from the airline's designated area after landing.
• Aftercare Tips:
  • Watch for signs of dehydration or nervous behavior
  • Offer small sips of water and reassure them calmly

7. Do’s and Don’ts for Air Travel with Dogs

Do’s

• Book flights early and confirm pet policies in advance
• Get your dog used to their crate well ahead of time
• Carry all necessary documents and ID tags
• Prefer direct flights to minimize travel time and stress

Don’ts

• Avoid sedating your dog unless advised by a veterinarian
• Don’t feed your dog right before the flight
• Never ignore airport or airline staff instructions

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Citation

Sources consulted for this article:

• India Someday – Flying in India
• Tata Neu Travel Guide
• YouTube: Flying with Your Dog in India