Today is the first day of Autumn, and that means holiday season is just right around the corner. Since many people begin booking their travel arrangements for the upcoming months we wanted to provide some helpful resources for travelling with or boarding your beloved Schnauzer.
We have flown with our Mini Schnauzer a few times now back and forth across the country. The first trip with Kaiser was filled with anxiety because we didn’t know how he would behave in the airport and on the plane. Everything turned out fine at the end of the day, and having that experience under our belt allowed for a smoother trip the next time around.
If you plan on bringing your Schnauzer along the first order of business is to meet with your vet and get their advice on whether or not your dog is healthy enough to travel. Travelling can be extremely stressful for our pets and you don’t want to put them at risk. Another item to consider is getting a flu vaccine for your dog. Yes, a flu vaccine for your Schnauzer; this is especially important if you will be boarding your Schnauzer among many other dogs, and some kennels are requiring a vaccine. Canine flu can pose a serious threat and the effects can last for weeks on our four legged friends. There’s even an iPhone app for that.
Be sure to contact the airline you booked with and make a reservation for your Schnauzer. A few airlines have a quota on how many pets can travel on board, so don’t delay. Some airlines charge more than others (Delta is a costly $300 round trip). There are ways to get around this fee if you qualify as a person who requires a companion dog for mental support. You will need a doctor’s note for that one though.
Many airlines do not even allow dogs to be placed in the cargo area anymore, and this means you will need to acquire a portable kennel for your Schnauzer that fits under the seat in front of you. From our experience, we recommend giving your dog a sedative prior to the airport so they are relaxed and can sleep more easily while in flight. This needs to come from your vet. For other tips check out this thorough article on pet travel.
Don’t forget your favorite toy either advises Kaiser.
Ducky would go everywhere if it was up to him.
Schnauzer Air Travel Posts:
Tags: airplane, Dog, flying, Mini Schnauzer, Schnauzer, Schnauzers, VCA Peninsula, vet
October 29th, 2009 at 6:57 pm
How nice of you to give us these tips… I don’t have a duck..but my Quilt goes with me EVERYWHERE….
Sounds like fun..but I like the car…I get to see lots of neat stuff on the way to my cousins house.
I don’t get sick either..I’m a good traveler.
Paws Up!
GUS
January 15th, 2012 at 10:53 am
Hi. I’m thinking about getting a mini schnauzer, but I’m afraid that it will bark too much. Also, I’m afraid it will overreact in public if I can’t get it a sedative before a flight. help!