Guaranteed On-Board Program

A new pet carrier insurance program backed by Sherpa Pet Group (recognized for their dog bed, crates, and carriers) should help air travelers who bring pets on-board avoid being denied or “bumped” from their flights.  Eight major US airlines recently conformed to pet travel standards and the insurance covers any expense incurred if you are indeed refused to travel.  This much needed move by the airlines should hopefully provide some uniformity to airport employees and airlines and generally improve the overall travel experience.

Sometimes travelers are turned away because the airline has reached their quota for a certain flight or because the owner doesn’t have a proper crate to keep both people and the dog safe.  As dog owners it can be difficult understanding the feelings of those who are either not “dog people” or genuinely nervous around dogs, and the airlines keep strict policies on pet travel to keep both sides of the fence happy.  So, before you travel make sure you have checked your airline’s policies, use the proper pet carrier, and always check with your vet to ensure your dog is healthy enough travel.

GOB Program Acceptable Crate Sizes

American Airlines. Apart from accepting the standard GOB small and medium carriers, the airline has also designed  its own bags in the following sizes:

Small: 16 inches long x 10 inches wide x 8.5 inches tall
Medium: 17 x 11 x 10.5

AirTran: Small and medium

Alaska: Small and medium

Continental: Small and medium

Delta: Small and medium

Northwest Airlines: Small, medium and large. (The large size is not approved for Northwest Connect flights.)

Midwest Airlines: Small and medium

Southwest Airlines: Small and medium

This helpful news brought to us from Oskar B’s family in Louisiana.  There’s more to come from Oskar B. As for now, he keeps a watchful eye on those not adhering to the TSA’s guidelines.

When Oskar B. says 3 ounces he means 3 ounces, and it better be in a clear plastic bag or no takey on flighty.

Tags: airplane, Dog, flying, Friends, Mini Schnauzer, Miniature Schnauzer, Schnauzer, Schnauzers, Travel, VCA Peninsula, vet