How to prepare a dog for a 12 hour flight?
Eden Moore
2025-08-11 18:52:14
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: 17
Get Your Dog Used to A Travel Crate Well before the flight, help your dog see a crate as a safe and familiar space. Place a crate in a quiet area of your home with soft bedding, and reward your dog for spending time inside. Gradually increase the amount of time they spend in it, including closing the door for short periods.
This helps reduce stress when they travel in it on the day of the flight.
PetAir provides IATA-approved travel crates tailored to your dog’s size and breed, and can advise on crate familiarisation timeframes depending on your departure date.
Giving your dog a long walk and time to relieve themselves before the journey helps them settle for a long flight.
Avoid introducing new foods or treats close to your travel date.
Stick to your dog’s usual meals to prevent upset stomachs.
If your dog will be travelling for many hours, PetAir can guide you on feeding timings before and after the flight.
A favourite blanket or a well-loved toy (if permitted) can help settle your dog in their crate during the flight.
The scent of home can be very reassuring.
Staying calm and positive around your dog, especially on the day of travel, helps them feel confident too.
Lonnie Reinger
2025-07-31 01:01:13
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: 17
To prepare a dog for a 12 hour flight, schedule a pre-travel visit with a vet to ensure your dog is in good health and discuss any concerns you might have. During this visit, vaccinations, annual health certificates, and microchipping can be taken care of.
Booking an appointment for a comprehensive health check is essential to confirm that your dog is fit to travel.
For in-flight considerations, check with the airline for their specific requirements regarding pet travel, and ensure your dog’s carrier is airline-approved and spacious enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
A health certificate issued by a vet within a certain timeframe before the flight is also necessary, as most airlines require it.
Packing essentials like food, water, medications, and comfort items can also help make the journey smoother.
Exercise and a light meal a few hours before departure can help your dog be more relaxed and less anxious during travel.
Crate training and acclimatising your dog to travel conditions beforehand can also be helpful.
Gradually increasing the length of car rides or crate time can help your dog get used to being in the vehicle or crate.
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- How to legally travel with a dog in the car?
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