When is it safest for my puppy to fly: in cabin or checked cargo?

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Putting a pet into cargo can be scary, as you cannot check in on them during that time. I recommend providing blankets and toys that may make her feel more comfortable. You can ask your veterinarian for light sedative medications that you can give prior to the flight to help her relax. I hope this is helpful!

Most, if not all airlines, transport animals in a temperature controlled and pressurized cargo hold separate from the luggage compartment. Animals are typically last to be loaded and the first to be unloaded to minimize time in the hold. You may even request to watch your pet being loaded/unloaded. It is true some pets have died in transit but I do not have statistics. You would need to inquire with the specific airline. Being a Pug can make flight/travel a bit more risky, especially if Chief gets stressed easily. Many airlines allow pets in the cabin. You would need to call the airline you are flying well in advance to secure a spot and to pay any additional fees if necessary. Chief should have an exam with your veterinarian prior to travel. I suggest contacting the Australian embassy to confirm all his travel papers, microchipping and vaccines are in order to prevent him from being quarantined when you arrive at your destination.

Flying can be very stressful, especially when flying with pets. Since Eva is so small she should be able to go in the cabin with you, under the seat. The cabin is pressurized and she will be with you. I always recommend putting a few of her favorite treats in a take off to help with the ear popping. Most of the time the animals fall asleep. More often then not we worry about this and they usually do fine. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and enjoy your trip!

HI, thanks for for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I would start training her to a dog car seat around 12-14 weeks and hopefully have her comfortable and sitting it it full time by 6 months or sooner. Congrats on your new addition and good luck

Storm is definitely a cutie! Yes, it's fine for him to go out to poop and pee in the yard :) As far as flying goes, I would definitely recommend checking to see if he can fly in the cabin with you, under the seat - this is much safer and less stressful than flying in the cargo hold, especially in hot weather. Very small dogs can usually fly this way, so check with your airline to see what the weight/size limit is for flying in the cabin. He will need a health certificate from your vet in order to fly, so make sure to get this ASAP so that everything is in order.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If your puppy is on a leash and sitting on your lap I think it is fine, if it is legal, to take Taffy on the bus. In the US we have to follow the laws and most dogs would have to be in a pet carrier to ride on public transportation. Bring water with you and food if the trip is a long one. But I think Taffy will be fine. I wish you the best!

Hello, thank you or using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. There are some very specific requirements to travel overseas with a pet. This is something you need to work very closely with your veterinarian to make sure nothing is missed. This just can not be done on line by yourself. Your veterinarian will research what is necessary based on what countries you will be visiting. Please also consider the stress you will be subjecting such a young puppy to. It is a very long flight with no potty breaks, & if your pup gets sick overseas, you will be in a very difficult situation trying to find veterinary care. Perhaps you have a trusted relative or friend who can keep Luna for you while you are gone? Honestly, this will be so much better than trying to travel & find pet friendly hotels while in Europe. Good luck & have a wonderful trip.