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A global trend has emerged in air travel in the last 10 years: more and more travellers are now flying with their pets.

There are a few influencing factors, including the popularity of registering your pet as a therapy animal, allowing pets to stay with you in the cabin when you partake in air travel.

Another cultural shift is how people value their animals. Emerging industries such as dog spas, cafes and photography allow furry companions to enjoy some of the same luxuries as their owners. These luxuries also include air travel, as more and more pet owners consider their animals as family members and are reluctant to travel without them.

If it's your first time considering flying with your pet(s), it's important to understand the rules and guidelines involved. This article covers everything you need to know about flying with pets.

Which pets can you fly with in Canada?

Airlines in Canada generally allow dogs, cats and ferrets on flights, with larger animals travelling in cargo.

Certain airlines allow birds, hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits. Make sure to call your airline first to make sure you can take a specific animal with you on board the flight.

Canada’s top 4 pet-friendly airlines

• Air Canada - Air Canada accommodates many animal species, and allows two pets flying in the same kennel in cargo.

• West Jet - West Jet differs from the others as it allows a variety of animal species beyond dogs and cats. West Jet allows birds and rabbits in the cabin, and chinchillas, guinea pigs and hedgehogs in the cargo area.

• Air Transat - Air Transat has a handy tool that allows you to check to see if there is space for your pet in the cabin or checked baggage hold.

• Flair Airlines - Flair allows you to book online for your pet, and also to add pets to existing bookings.

Pre-flight preparations for flying with your pet

Just like with almost any big travel endeavour, proper research and preparation is crucial. Here are the necessary steps to take in preparing to fly with your pet:

• Research specific airline policies, such as allowances for:

  • Pet size: Small dogs or cats that are travelling in the cabin must fit into a carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you.

  • Breed restrictions: Short/snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds such as French bulldogs and pugs can’t travel in the checked-bag compartment. These breeds are extra susceptible to heat stroke and breathing problems when exposed to extreme heat or stressful moments such as heavy turbulence. Certain dog breeds are classified as “strong dogs” and their carriers are specialised, needing extra reinforcement.

  • Fees: The cost to fly with a pet generally lands around $50 per flight (one-way), if you are flying within Canada or the U.S., and $100 per flight if you are flying internationally.

  • Documentation: Special documentations such as health certificates are required if you are travelling internationally.

• Make sure your pet is fit to fly:

• • The age of your pet is an important factor in air travel. If you have a senior pet, ask your vet if it is still able to withstand air travel.

  • If your animal has health conditions such as heart, ear or respiratory problems, your vet may recommend against flying.

  • If your pet has a tendency towards aggression or severe anxiety, it may not be the best idea to bring them on an aeroplane.

  • Puppies younger than 10 weeks are not allowed on a flight, and all animals must be weaned.

  • Your pet must be up to date with certain vaccinations.

  • Consider having your pet microchipped. If it escapes, especially in an unfamiliar or exotic location, the microchip will help to locate it.

• Considerations when booking your flight:

  • Always book well in advance. Airlines have a limited number of spaces for animals in cargo.

  • Choose your flight with your pet’s well-being in mind. The time of day matters during hot or cold weather. In the summer, it may be better to fly in the evening or nighttime, In the winter, it's advisable to fly during the daytime when temperatures warm up a bit. Some airlines do not permit flying with animals in cargo during midday in the summer.

  • Direct flights are better for you and your pet. Avoid the hassle of transferring flights with an animal. Your pet will be more at ease if it only has to board one flight.

Preparing your pet for air travel

Air travel can bring on fears or anxiety for your pets. There are steps you can take to make sure your animal’s experience is less stressful for both of you.

• Make sure the carrier is the right size. Airlines require that your pet be able to stand, sit and lie down with ease within its carrier.

• Crate train your pet so that it is at ease while travelling. Steps to crate training include:

• Introducing your dog to its crate.

• Feeding your dog meals near or inside the crate, in order to create positive associations.

• Slowly increasing longer crating periods, while practising leaving the room while the animal is inside the crate. When your animal has reached a 30 minute crating period, you can try having it in there when you leave the house, or overnight.

• Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats or affection when your dog successfully stays calm in the crate for a period of time.

• Place beloved objects such as toys and blankets in the crate with your pet. Include an article of your clothing so that your comforting smell is in there with your pet.

• Avoid sedatives for your pet while flying. If the animal is sedated during heavy turbulence, it is at risk of bruising or injury. There are calming supplements available for animals, you can try experimenting with these.

• Practise short trips in the car with your animal in its crate. Do this to get your animal used to travelling in the crate. Again, offer your pet positive reinforcements for staying calm.

• Provide water. Some airlines allow you to freeze a bowl of water to place with your pet in cargo. Be sure to prepare for this the night before travelling.

• Don’t feed your pet too close to departure time. Avoid your pet having to go to the bathroom in their crate or carrier by feeding them at least 4 hours before the flight.

Navigating the airport with your pet

It’s important to arrive at the airport early in order to accommodate pet check-in and security procedures.

If you are travelling with a small pet as your carry-on item, you will be asked to take your pet out of its carrier so that the carrier can pass through the X-ray scanner.

Locate the pet-relief areas throughout the airport, and make sure your pet relieves itself right before the flight. Walking around the airport before a flight is a good idea, for both you and your pet’s well-being.

Simplify the process by working with a pet agency

There are a lot of details to consider when flying with a pet, and it can be overwhelming, especially because travel already involves so much planning and organisation. Many people opt to work with a pet agency and have all of the details taken care of by the agency.

Pet agencies are specialised service providers that help pet owners with pet care organisation, travel preparations, and relocation. For travel, the agency will help you with securing documentation and health certificates. They also offer a range of travel crates that are compliant with both airlines and international travel regulations.

Work with a reputable pet transportation service

Pets are precious, and we know it's important to you that they are in the best, most caring hands during travel or transport.

Top Move works with Canada’s most trusted pet transportation services to ensure that your pet has the best care possible during transportation. This allows you to browse through companies until you find one that is most suitable for you and your pet.

Get a quote today and start planning your move with your pet’s best interests in mind!

Let us transport your pet

Our pet transport service is trusted by thousands of pet owners just like you. Door-to-Door Transport. Same Day service. Any Pet Type.

9.6 · 368 reviews

Get Prices