This is a great video. I work for a US airline, and so many passengers do not understand there are rules and restrictions. Thank you for also mentioning to not tranquilize your dog. Quite a few year back a passenger gave too much Benadryl to her dog and he did not survive the trip. Very sad for everyone.
Oh that just breaks my heart. It's why I think crate training is SO important, if the dog is used to sitting in the pet carrier for longer amounts of time, they won't be as stressed. Thank you for sharing!
At some point passengers were allowed to smoke on planes, that was part of the rules and restrictions. Some rules and restrictions are just dumb and enforcing them make you dumber.
Amazing information, thank you for sharing. We have a 7.4kg Jindo mix, very similar to size and body very similar to yours. We've travelled with her between US and Canada a couple times now, Cargo in the beginning then I found out she is borderline to go under cabin seat. So we bought an expandable soft carrier and we had the same experience you had in the Greece trip. The counter agent (Air Canada) mentioned she looked too big for the bag. She asked us if our dog had traveled in the bag before and asked us to show if our dog could spin around. Obviously, without expanding the compartment, our dog couldn't spin because the bag was too small. So, we explained that once the bag opens up it has a lot of room. And my husband and I were sitting next to each other and we will use both of our leg rooms to expand the carrier bag all the way. The counter agent had doubts, but she seemed like an animal person and finally decided to let us pass. But that wasn't it, then her supervisor came over to check on us because we were holding up the lineup. And she immediately said "ohh that dog looks too big", thankfully our counter agent had decided to help us. She quickly responded to her supervisor saying she had finished checking, and we were all good. I felt like my heart dropped, and like you mentioned the counter agent makes the final call with her own discretion. It's so stressful there's no certainty every time. I will definitely try to get a bigger bag next time!
Hi, if I notice that Sami is over the weight limit, we "diet" 7-10 days before the flight, meaning reduced portions and less treats. We also skip the meal right before the flight and instead feed him after the check-in (or even on the plane). I have a vlog you can watch, where I talk more about what happens before and during the flight: th-cam.com/video/TWLrhLz1inw/w-d-xo.html
Can your dog be out of their carrier and on your lap during the flight? Are there places to let your dog go to the bathroom in airports if you have a connecting flight?
I can’t tell you how useful your videos were for our first flight with Trasto, our westie. I would love to know the routine you use before fliying (including diet). Thank you
Thank you! I'm glad they want to take her with them 😍 Sami traveled at 6 months for the first time and he got used to flying easily. I love nothing more than having him with me everywhere I go 🥰
Thank you so much for creating this video! I haven't been on a plane in more than ten years and am planning a trip with my 14-month-old, eight-pound Yorkie. I had already started a list of everything I need to bring along for him. However, I had no idea about most of what you shared, aside from the carrier being able to fit under the seat. I appreciate your thoroughness and will start looking at pet-friendly airlines.
we found a backpack carrier worked great for our schnauzers about the same size as your dog that way you can carry your dog in front of you in a backpack with the machine and all that it has a backing to it a hard backing and also you can roll them along. My dogs didn’t seem to like that so we took those out, if a dog is anxious for travel, our vet suggested gabapentin. It’s a low-dose. It just makes him tired and calm but again always refer to your Vetrinarian first. We had a very long trip to Hawaii. The other thing I would add to your pet.pee spots
I would be super interested for a video regarding the weight! I’m travelling to Finland this summer with my westie and I’m super nervous because she is heavier. She is on a diet now but I really want to be able to bring her with me.
Really relief you made this video. I'm on the same situation - traveling with my dog from Portugal to NY - and I've struggled with DGAV before, so I was doing the research on my own, was on the same path you described but not so confident it will work. No I am confident. Obrigada ♡
I'm so happy to hear that it helped! ❤️ Looking back I think I didn't need DGAV at all, just our vet who is certified could have signed on her own. The people in NY look at the CVI quick and that's that. If you have any more questions or if you need anything I can help with, let me know! Good luck 😊
Great video. I see your dog was outside the carrier in the airport. Can a puppy walk on a leash in the airport, or do they have to be in the carrier the whole time in the airport? Are you allowed a carryon bag plus the dog kennel? Or just the kennel? Is there a place for the dog to pee or poop before you board the plane? Domestic US flights TUL to LGA.
Each Airport has its own rules and accommodations. Most that I've looked into (Googled) prefer that you keep in carrier but will make exceptions for well-behaved dogs on a short leash (50 cm/ 1foot 7 inches long). Some have "pet relief stations", while others actually require that you leave the secure area (past TSA) to go outside.
I'm going on my first flight this Christmas with my fur-baby. I am very nervous about it, but this video is helping me get my confidence up to do it and reduce my worry. I plan on documenting on my channel how my first flight goes! Wish me luck!🛫
I wish you lots of luck!! The first flight is always stressful. It will be ok ❤I am glad to hear that my video helped you. Let me know if you have any questions! And yes, please document it, I wanna see how it goes 🤩
Curious if you have already taken your flight. I'm going to be flying to Thailand and bringing 2 dogs in cabin. Looking for any advice or words of encouragement 😊
Thank you for a perfectly explained video, we have a chihuahua/minpin and barks too much and will definitely annoy the passengers ( and me) , she will stay behind when we go on our trip 😢
Would love you to make a video on travelling with your pup who is near the weight limit. We travelled with our pup for the first time, was super easy as got lots of tips from your video. I think he will be close to the 8kg mark as he is now 7kg and is 8 months now. 🐶🐶
It makes me so happy to hear that! 🎉👏🏻 Congrats!! I will make that video soon. Your pup will probably be like Sami, he is consistently around 7.8 kg and when he was 8 months he was exactly 7 kg.
Great video! It’s probably worth mentioning that most airlines don’t allow the dog out of the carrier during the flight, even the head. I think Sami got super lucky with the crew in being allowed fully out as when I’ve flown in cabin (apart from when I was ESA) the crew made sure I was fully enclosed the whole time on one flight the other I was allowed my head out but only because we had noone sat next to us, in front or behind 😢
Hi Wylie! 🧡 Wow, I didn't know this. Sami stays closed in during take off and landing, but in between I always let him out, so he lays half in the bag, half on the floor of the plane and no one has ever said anything (I don't even know if they noticed). Staying with the bag closed at all times seems a bit cruel since there is not much room in there for them to relax 🥺 Thanks for sharing!
@@WestieVibes Yeah we flew twice as none ESA. The first time he was allowed his head out but only because noone else was anywhere near us. The second time they wouldn't even let his head out even though we had noone sat next to us but because there were some old ladies behind us they said no :( With Vueling they allow you to buy an extra seat which we would definitely do next time (although they still have to sit on the floor but gives more chance of the crew being flexible!
It seems like you’ve broken every single travelling rule. We’ve always been told the doggy has to stay in the carrier except going through security and then straight back in. Absolutely not allowed to sit up on a chair waiting to board and cannot carry your dog out of the carrier like it seemed in this video that you did while boarding. You didn’t have your dog carrier under the seat properly you had it sideways which we’ve been told you can’t do. Never are the dogs allowed in your arms during flight at all but you did. Is it different rules outside of Canada I wonder. Your way seems so much better for your doggy.
@@WendyBliekI read all of that too. I am flying with my dog for the first time in a month and nervous about him whining the entire time. Yet, I fly a lot and always see people walking their dog on a leash in many airports.
Well we prep really well before each flight, to avoid that from happening. We limit the water intake, we walk him at least 30 mins after checking in (and before going thru security), this way his bladder is empty when we fly and he doesn't need to pee for a good 8-10 hours. On the flight I give him water, but less than I would at home. So I make sure he stays hydrated but doesn't drink too much. Luckily Sami also is not a big water drinker haha. There was one long flight where he had no water at all and I almost had to try to force him to drink because he wasn't thirsty.
Yeah, pay your seat (on the floor). I saw how a guy who was walking in front of the lady with the puppy before boarding, was carrying on his shoulders huge luggage as the carry-on. Lol... $$$$$$$. Which in!
I think it depends on the age of the dog and their habits. Is your dog comfortable holding it for so long? If yes, it might be ok. Is your dog anxious in new environments, like crowded places and moving vehicles? If yes, flying can be stressful. Sami has been on a 11 hour flight plus another 2 hours in the airport, so a total of 13h of no peeing. He was a champion the whole time. Also, it helped that we tired him a lot before the flight and he had done his business right before boarding. Hope it helps ❤️
Thank you. I would take my westie everywhere. And now the kennel is so expensive, it would be cheaper to fly them, plus then you would have them all the time. Your Sami is adorable.
We pay 15 euros/day here because we are paying for training classes on a yearly basis, but if we are gone for over a week it's probably cheaper to fly him with us. If it's only for a few days the kennel is probably cheaper. But I love taking him with us whenever possible, which is on most trips! ❤️
One major piece of information left out, where do you take your dog to potty when you get to the airport? I think some airports have designs locations but I'm not entirely sure. What happens if they have an accident?
Some airports in the USA have potty areas (but you need to check if the area is in the terminal you'll be). In Europe I haven't seen any potty areas in airports, so it's important for Sami to do his business before going in the airport and to limit his water to avoid accidents. I do carry pee pads with me, so that if he really needs to go, he can. If they have an accident (it can happen), do your best to clean up I guess 😊 I don't think anybody can get mad if it's an accident. But I think preparing well before the flight (skipping a meal to avoid number 2 and doing a looong walk before going through security) can prevent accidents. In case you travel with an older dog who you know is prone to accidents, I would advise to put a dog "pampers" on them and change it if they pee in it. Hope that helps answer your question!
Yes, every airline has this rule for the dog's safety as well as other passengers (some people are allergic to pet hairs). Sometimes you can be really lucky and they might be nice and overlook it and let your dog sit in your lap, but don't count on it. Most airlines don't allow that.
I am flying from Switzerland to California. How could my dog pee on the flight if he needs to? :/ Would you recommend a stop in between, for example in New York and then carry on? Or would you put pee pats into the carrier?
😊 this video was of great help. I am planning to take my small dog on a flight. I will have to read and find more information about sizes and weights. Cause he is a slightly fat. 😆
We've been on a long flight from Europe to the USA and Sami didn't need to pee at all. We always make sure to walk him right before going through security and limit the amount of water, to keep him comfortable. Because there is no way for dogs to use the restroom during flights. What you can do is put a diaper on them just in case, or place a pee pad on the bottom of the carrier bag in case they pee. But that's about it. So we always manage this by preparing before flights, to make it so that he won't need to pee.
Also flew many times (PUG, from Ecuador to Germany). But no airline allows you to let the dog out, or worth sitting with you. Your buddy needs to stay in, and under the seat in front of you. Sure you can open to pet and serve water... but I got in trouble man times for letting her out. And yes... many diets also before the flight so the 8 kg weight limit is not exceeded. Important to purchase the travel bag for the dog in advance so they get used to it... mine both actually love it.
Moving to Spain with puppy, thanks for this, your puppy is cool as shit, love him, this was a cool vid looks like, depending on airline, that they can come out a little from time to time?
I have a soft-sides carrier that’s approved by Delta, but I am going to fly on Alaska which requires slightly smaller size. Do I need to buy another carrier, in other words do they measure with a ruler?
Never flown before and planning on flying in the next few weeks. I have a 3 pound affen pinscher. Hes 6 yesrs old. Does the passport for pets HAVE to be 30 days before 🙏 imbgoing through alot right now and have a better opportunity in houston texas and needing to fly there in next 2 weeks
I really need ASAP the video about the diet of a Westie when he is so close to the limit weight. My westie is now 7.5 kilos and we are flying in a month 😩
Thank you for your video! it's the most informative video so far I have seen on this topics. Sami is super cute❤, traveling with fur babe is always more fun. I have an 16 lb Papillion mix. I hope taking him to travel with us soon and going through boarder's smoothly.
Thank you for the video. We fly in 2,5 weeks and I am a bit worried :) She is normally chill in car rides and sleeps in her bag, but I m not sure how she will act on the plane. I am afraid that she will cry and be stressed and annoy other passengers :(
It is not allowed but it’s at discretion of the staff. I flew last year from Europe to Chicago and there was a dog at the seat behind me on the passenger.
I’ve noticed on flights that my feet get really cold sometimes from the floor, I can feel the cold coming up through the floor, what do you recommend to help keep dogs warm in their carriers on the floor during the flight? 😊 I’d love to take our cavachon on a flight with us but I don’t want him to freeze or get cold during the flight.
I always take Sami's blanket inside his carrier bag, so he can be comfy. Also, I pack 2 pee pads just in case he ever needs them (like in case of a flight delay) and I put them at the bottom of the carrier, under the blanket. This creates an extra layer of softness and warmth for him 😊
Great video! Thank you for sharing. I'm about to embark on my first flight with my dog later, a long international flight. We are 100% ready for it. He meets the weight and size requirements, however, he is not able to stand up in his carrier bag. According to what I've read online, most airlines require your dog to be able to stand up in their bag. Based on your experience, how strictly is this rule enforced? Also, I've read that some airlines do not let you take your dog out of their bag during the flight, while other airlines don't have a problem with taking them out. Any comments you have would be super helpful. Thank you so much!
Hey! I’m the same as you, flying later on in a long international flights and was wondering the same.. if they check that the dog stand up in the bag or not ? Did you trip passed? I would be curious to have your feedback too ! Thank you so much!
@@annaboue Hello, they did not check that my dog could stand up. They only weighed him and that was all .They didn't check the dimensions of the carrier either. It turned out to be a very comfortable flight as I had an empty seat next to me so I was able to keep my dog (in his carrier) beside me for the duration of the flight. I think it really depends on the airline, the route and the staff at the check-in counter. I flew with Austrian Airlines and was super impressed with how accommodating and friendly they were. This was my experience but I think I also got quite lucky too. The flight was 10.5 hours.
@@mikejrexec That's a good point. I guess each dog has a different tolerance level. We used the carrier at home often so he was quite used to being in it. I know that my dog can go at least 12 hours without having to pee. So a 10-hr flight, including all of the boarding time, checking in etc. that works out to be about 12 hours. It's not something that I recommend or to do often but it can be done. It might be possible to train your dog to use pee pads. You can put them in the carrier and see if he will understand that it will be ok to pee there. But most dogs won't pee where they sleep, unless it's an absolute emergency, right?
@@jeffsilver5762 thank you very much. I was imagining myself carrying the bag and dog to the restroom, laying down pads all over and waiting for something to happen. Not a pleasant thought. Thanks
You can find the link to the bag in this video in the description 😊 Also, since then, I switched to the Sherpa Original Deluxe (on Amazon) size L. Both are great dog carriers, I recommend them both 👍🏻
I have a 29 lb Doodle and I live in Florida but family is in Canada. It’s heartbreaking that I can’t find a way to fly with her. At Christmas we drove 12 hours a day for 4 days (risking our lives because the weather was so treacherous in the northern areas) so that she could be with us for a month. Do you have any suggestions?
Sami is gorgeous and tiny. My last Westie, Linus was tiny like Sami. One thing you didn’t cover was, what about giving Sami places to relieve himself (let him pee). What do you do?
I would definitely like to learn more as my Westie is over 8kg. Am wanting to fly from UK to Spain, but won't go without him :) Our vet told us there are no longer pet passports, and that all is needed now is a health certificate. I hope they are correct! Would like to hear from anyone here that have made the same flight as I'm planning to do. My biggest fear is that my Westie will bark a lot on the plane. He's not as well behaved, trained as Sami.
You can also double check with the airline, to make sure. Can you train your dog a little bit in the weeks before? Teach him to stay inside the bag, reward him with high value treats, maybe keep him in there in the evenings, as you watch TV next to him? Just integrate the bag into your routine, so by the time you fly with him, he knows it's normal for him to sit in there. You could even bring him along in a public place somewhere, like a supermarket or restaurant, inside the carrier. For him to get used to it.☺ Also: make sure you never reward him when he barks. Wait for him to be quiet and only then reward. Otherwise, he will bark just to get more treats and you don't want that 😄
You could try putting him on a diet for a while to get him under the weight….and perhaps increase the exercise time…..don’t forget the weight of the bag as well and allow for different scales…..I think it is correct about the passports…..since leaving eu. It will be on government website. I took my westie to Italy from uk post brexit and flew with PetAir……at that time it was the only company flying pets because of covid, and it was expensive……but they took good care of him and saw to all the paperwork and took responsibility for it, he wasn’t allowed to go in the cabin with me, but mine is very good and I saw him when they put him on the ✈️. Make sure he has had all the correct vaccinations etc etc. keep all the paperwork with you. hope it all goes well.
We have flown from Heathrow to Madrid with our dog with Iberia! They didn’t weigh him but every flight staff is different! Vueling has a weight limit of 8kg
Buna, ce faci? If you happen to read this, could you help me, te rog? I'm planning to travel to Romania for the summer with my cat from the United States. Have you taken your Westie as a carry-on on an international/transatlantic flight? And if so, which airline did you use? Multumesc and great vids! Noroc/Cheers
All websites are mentionning that the dog needs to be able to stand up qnd turn around while inside the carrier. That doesnt seem to be the case for your dog. My dog's head come out of the carrier if he doesn't put it down or lies down. Im worried could this be an issue?
It's true, this is the rule with most airlines, but they don't always enforce it. We've been lucky that every time we fly with Sami we check in with him outside his bag, so they never ask to see him stand and turn inside the bag. If they did, chances are they woulndn't allow him on the plane, which is a possibility we always have in mind when we fly with him 😅 We only had one incident, one time when they wanted to put Sami in cargo and here is a video of the story: th-cam.com/video/LHNTRqY6Irs/w-d-xo.html
what a shame! i collect my border collie puppy in a week however my father is going to new york in january.. me and my mother would like to go but dont want to leave him behind nor do we want him to come along as cargo... he will be just over 4 months old by then so probably over 8kg (edit; just googled this and he would be 15-18lbs which is 6.8- 8.2kg approx.. there is still hope haha). we would be flying from London so even more of a struggle.. thanks for the vid
It depends on the airline and the destination. We paid around 60 euros pet fee (for one way) within Europe. But it was $200 to fly Sami from Europe to the US (also one way). You can always go to the airline's website under "pet travel" and see the pet fees.
Thanks for the video. I have a question about rabies vaccine to be administered 30 days before the flight departure - does it mean Sammy has to receive 3 rabies vaccine in a year if you bring him for 3 trips?
No no. The vaccine we do it once every 2 years (because that's how long it's valid for) and it needs to be administered no less than 30 days before the departure. That's because it needs 30 days to start working. I usually check Sami's passport quickly before planning a trip, to make sure the vaccine won't expire by the time we leave. Other than that, I don't do anything different 😊
It depends on the airport. You need to check their website. Some have "pet relief stations" past security, but others will require that you go outside and back through security. I'm going to be transferring in Korea which requires leaving security to go outside, but I don't have everything necessary to get the dogs back into security, so I'm planning to bring a puppy pad into the restroom and hopefully they will use that without too much fuss.
This a great video, very informative, but you forgot to mention you travel with economy, business or first class? Personally me, I’m desperate to know 🙄.💚
As long as you pay your pet fee & the carrier fits under the seat (under middle seat is roomiest acc to flight attendants), "class" shouldn't make any difference. 🐈⬛️✈️💚
This is a great video. I work for a US airline, and so many passengers do not understand there are rules and restrictions. Thank you for also mentioning to not tranquilize your dog. Quite a few year back a passenger gave too much Benadryl to her dog and he did not survive the trip. Very sad for everyone.
Oh that just breaks my heart. It's why I think crate training is SO important, if the dog is used to sitting in the pet carrier for longer amounts of time, they won't be as stressed.
Thank you for sharing!
It's stressful for doggy Moms and Dads too !
If a dog is just above 8kg , would it be still allowed?
At some point passengers were allowed to smoke on planes, that was part of the rules and restrictions. Some rules and restrictions are just dumb and enforcing them make you dumber.
😱😱😱😱😱😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
Please, please, please share a video about the case when the pet is close or a bit over the weight limit.
Please, share also about the diet tips 💜
My 5 year old male Westie weighs a solid 31 pounds!! No flying for him. If he does not go-- I do not go!! Great video
I just tossed my dog in my check-in luggage, put some holes in it. Worked like a charm.
Sami sure is a cutie pie ! SO patient ! He's a CHAMP !
he is 🥰
Amazing information, thank you for sharing. We have a 7.4kg Jindo mix, very similar to size and body very similar to yours. We've travelled with her between US and Canada a couple times now, Cargo in the beginning then I found out she is borderline to go under cabin seat. So we bought an expandable soft carrier and we had the same experience you had in the Greece trip. The counter agent (Air Canada) mentioned she looked too big for the bag. She asked us if our dog had traveled in the bag before and asked us to show if our dog could spin around. Obviously, without expanding the compartment, our dog couldn't spin because the bag was too small. So, we explained that once the bag opens up it has a lot of room. And my husband and I were sitting next to each other and we will use both of our leg rooms to expand the carrier bag all the way. The counter agent had doubts, but she seemed like an animal person and finally decided to let us pass. But that wasn't it, then her supervisor came over to check on us because we were holding up the lineup. And she immediately said "ohh that dog looks too big", thankfully our counter agent had decided to help us. She quickly responded to her supervisor saying she had finished checking, and we were all good.
I felt like my heart dropped, and like you mentioned the counter agent makes the final call with her own discretion. It's so stressful there's no certainty every time. I will definitely try to get a bigger bag next time!
Sami is SO CUTE and well behaved! Thank you for sharing!
Yes please post what you do if your dog is close to the weight limit. Thanks!
Yes please do a video for a diet for dog before flying
Hi! I’m interested in how you make the doggie weight limit before flights thank you!
Hi, if I notice that Sami is over the weight limit, we "diet" 7-10 days before the flight, meaning reduced portions and less treats. We also skip the meal right before the flight and instead feed him after the check-in (or even on the plane). I have a vlog you can watch, where I talk more about what happens before and during the flight: th-cam.com/video/TWLrhLz1inw/w-d-xo.html
Can your dog be out of their carrier and on your lap during the flight? Are there places to let your dog go to the bathroom in airports if you have a connecting flight?
Sami is so good. I couldn't imagine taking my Westie Rory on a flight, he would not behave plus he'd probably pee! 😃
I can’t tell you how useful your videos were for our first flight with Trasto, our westie. I would love to know the routine you use before fliying (including diet). Thank you
I'm going to send this on to my friends who just got a puppy. They want to travel with her at some point. Thank you for the information.
Thank you! I'm glad they want to take her with them 😍 Sami traveled at 6 months for the first time and he got used to flying easily. I love nothing more than having him with me everywhere I go 🥰
What about when they have to go potty!!? What do you do then? Especially at an airport when connecting flights?
Nice. Well made, informative, professional quality delivery.
Great video! A lot of good tips and information.
Thanks so much, Lisa! 😍
Just a quick question. Is your dog allowed out of the carrier? And if so what airlines?
Sami is so cute!
Thank you so much for creating this video! I haven't been on a plane in more than ten years and am planning a trip with my 14-month-old, eight-pound Yorkie. I had already started a list of everything I need to bring along for him. However, I had no idea about most of what you shared, aside from the carrier being able to fit under the seat. I appreciate your thoroughness and will start looking at pet-friendly airlines.
Thanks for this video, I recently got a pup and we will be doing a long flight (Germany-Korea) so your video is great thank you
thank you so much, this eased a lot of my anxiety with bringing my dog on a flight :D
I live in Portugal I was so happy when you said Portugal you are the first youtober to say portugal😂
we found a backpack carrier worked great for our schnauzers about the same size as your dog that way you can carry your dog in front of you in a backpack with the machine and all that it has a backing to it a hard backing and also you can roll them along. My dogs didn’t seem to like that so we took those out, if a dog is anxious for travel, our vet suggested gabapentin. It’s a low-dose. It just makes him tired and calm but again always refer to your Vetrinarian first. We had a very long trip to Hawaii. The other thing I would add to your pet.pee spots
I would be super interested for a video regarding the weight! I’m travelling to Finland this summer with my westie and I’m super nervous because she is heavier. She is on a diet now but I really want to be able to bring her with me.
Really relief you made this video. I'm on the same situation - traveling with my dog from Portugal to NY - and I've struggled with DGAV before, so I was doing the research on my own, was on the same path you described but not so confident it will work. No I am confident. Obrigada ♡
I'm so happy to hear that it helped! ❤️ Looking back I think I didn't need DGAV at all, just our vet who is certified could have signed on her own. The people in NY look at the CVI quick and that's that.
If you have any more questions or if you need anything I can help with, let me know! Good luck 😊
Please share tips and routine on how to fly with dogs over the weight limit! Loved this video, thank you!
flying to picking up my puppy little nervous but glad my mom will come with me
Super useful!!
Great video. I see your dog was outside the carrier in the airport. Can a puppy walk on a leash in the airport, or do they have to be in the carrier the whole time in the airport? Are you allowed a carryon bag plus the dog kennel? Or just the kennel? Is there a place for the dog to pee or poop before you board the plane? Domestic US flights TUL to LGA.
Each Airport has its own rules and accommodations. Most that I've looked into (Googled) prefer that you keep in carrier but will make exceptions for well-behaved dogs on a short leash (50 cm/ 1foot 7 inches long). Some have "pet relief stations", while others actually require that you leave the secure area (past TSA) to go outside.
Thank you for this video. God bless.
I'm going on my first flight this Christmas with my fur-baby. I am very nervous about it, but this video is helping me get my confidence up to do it and reduce my worry. I plan on documenting on my channel how my first flight goes! Wish me luck!🛫
I wish you lots of luck!! The first flight is always stressful. It will be ok ❤I am glad to hear that my video helped you. Let me know if you have any questions!
And yes, please document it, I wanna see how it goes 🤩
@@WestieVibes thank you! When it gets closer, I probably will and appreciate your insight into this new experience I’m about to take on.
Tips for long flights… US to Philippines?
Curious if you have already taken your flight. I'm going to be flying to Thailand and bringing 2 dogs in cabin. Looking for any advice or words of encouragement 😊
@@juliemoldovan1151 Did you travel with your dog? I'm traveling with my dog in cabin to Vietnam
I appreciate this. My boy is named Sammi. 🐾💙
I am getting ready to fly with my Shih Tzu which is about the same size. Thank you so much for your info
How did it go? We have a shih tzu too. Also, what bag did you get?
Thank you for a perfectly explained video, we have a chihuahua/minpin and barks too much and will definitely annoy the passengers ( and me) , she will stay behind when we go on our trip 😢
Glad it was helpful! Oh, she is not used to being in crowded places and is probably very stressed ❤️ I'm sorry you can't take her with you.
We fly with our Westie often and this is all wonderful advise!
Your dog seems super calm.
Hello how are you ?
Did you do a video for the diet?
Would love you to make a video on travelling with your pup who is near the weight limit. We travelled with our pup for the first time, was super easy as got lots of tips from your video. I think he will be close to the 8kg mark as he is now 7kg and is 8 months now. 🐶🐶
It makes me so happy to hear that! 🎉👏🏻 Congrats!! I will make that video soon. Your pup will probably be like Sami, he is consistently around 7.8 kg and when he was 8 months he was exactly 7 kg.
was his head sticking out of the carrier? I'm worries mine does and I don't know if it's a problem.
Very good tips! Thanks a lot! 🐶🐾❤️
Great video! It’s probably worth mentioning that most airlines don’t allow the dog out of the carrier during the flight, even the head. I think Sami got super lucky with the crew in being allowed fully out as when I’ve flown in cabin (apart from when I was ESA) the crew made sure I was fully enclosed the whole time on one flight the other I was allowed my head out but only because we had noone sat next to us, in front or behind 😢
Hi Wylie! 🧡 Wow, I didn't know this. Sami stays closed in during take off and landing, but in between I always let him out, so he lays half in the bag, half on the floor of the plane and no one has ever said anything (I don't even know if they noticed). Staying with the bag closed at all times seems a bit cruel since there is not much room in there for them to relax 🥺 Thanks for sharing!
@@WestieVibes Yeah we flew twice as none ESA. The first time he was allowed his head out but only because noone else was anywhere near us. The second time they wouldn't even let his head out even though we had noone sat next to us but because there were some old ladies behind us they said no :( With Vueling they allow you to buy an extra seat which we would definitely do next time (although they still have to sit on the floor but gives more chance of the crew being flexible!
It seems like you’ve broken every single travelling rule. We’ve always been told the doggy has to stay in the carrier except going through security and then straight back in. Absolutely not allowed to sit up on a chair waiting to board and cannot carry your dog out of the carrier like it seemed in this video that you did while boarding. You didn’t have your dog carrier under the seat properly you had it sideways which we’ve been told you can’t do. Never are the dogs allowed in your arms during flight at all but you did. Is it different rules outside of Canada I wonder. Your way seems so much better for your doggy.
@@WendyBliekI read all of that too. I am flying with my dog for the first time in a month and nervous about him whining the entire time. Yet, I fly a lot and always see people walking their dog on a leash in many airports.
@@WendyBliekrules are made to be broken
Great video, very useful info! Thank you
What if the dog needs to pee whilst in the terminal and or in the Aircraft ?
How do you mange this eventuality ?
Well we prep really well before each flight, to avoid that from happening. We limit the water intake, we walk him at least 30 mins after checking in (and before going thru security), this way his bladder is empty when we fly and he doesn't need to pee for a good 8-10 hours. On the flight I give him water, but less than I would at home. So I make sure he stays hydrated but doesn't drink too much. Luckily Sami also is not a big water drinker haha. There was one long flight where he had no water at all and I almost had to try to force him to drink because he wasn't thirsty.
Did you ever make a video on the diet you use to ensure he’s less than 20lbs?
Cute dog!
Best travel companion 😊 🐾 ✈️
Yeah, pay your seat (on the floor). I saw how a guy who was walking in front of the lady with the puppy before boarding, was carrying on his shoulders huge luggage as the carry-on. Lol... $$$$$$$. Which in!
Hi! Can you please send me tips about your dog’s diet before flights?
This is really helpful thank you! Would you say a 14 hour flight is okay for your dog or is it too long?
I think it depends on the age of the dog and their habits. Is your dog comfortable holding it for so long? If yes, it might be ok. Is your dog anxious in new environments, like crowded places and moving vehicles? If yes, flying can be stressful.
Sami has been on a 11 hour flight plus another 2 hours in the airport, so a total of 13h of no peeing. He was a champion the whole time. Also, it helped that we tired him a lot before the flight and he had done his business right before boarding. Hope it helps ❤️
@@WestieVibes Okay Thank you so much for the help!
Thank you. I would take my westie everywhere. And now the kennel is so expensive, it would be cheaper to fly them, plus then you would have them all the time. Your Sami is adorable.
We pay 15 euros/day here because we are paying for training classes on a yearly basis, but if we are gone for over a week it's probably cheaper to fly him with us. If it's only for a few days the kennel is probably cheaper. But I love taking him with us whenever possible, which is on most trips! ❤️
He is soooo cute
I am really interested in understanding keeping a good weight before flying.
my dogs middle sized and kinda big but i really want to bring her with me 😭❤
Sami is an amazing name!
what are the dimensions of your bag?
Love your video and your great suggestions. Can you add a link to your cool collar/harness/leash shown in the video? :-)
Was helpful with all important informations . Liked from Sri Lanka
One major piece of information left out, where do you take your dog to potty when you get to the airport? I think some airports have designs locations but I'm not entirely sure. What happens if they have an accident?
Some airports in the USA have potty areas (but you need to check if the area is in the terminal you'll be). In Europe I haven't seen any potty areas in airports, so it's important for Sami to do his business before going in the airport and to limit his water to avoid accidents.
I do carry pee pads with me, so that if he really needs to go, he can.
If they have an accident (it can happen), do your best to clean up I guess 😊 I don't think anybody can get mad if it's an accident. But I think preparing well before the flight (skipping a meal to avoid number 2 and doing a looong walk before going through security) can prevent accidents.
In case you travel with an older dog who you know is prone to accidents, I would advise to put a dog "pampers" on them and change it if they pee in it.
Hope that helps answer your question!
please do a video on a diet for flying because i want to fly with my shih tzu he is about 7,2 kg and we are only allowed to 8kg with a carrier
Did you book directly with the airline or through third party apps for international flights?
Excellent video. So clear and helpful. Thank you very much.
Yes he is near the weight limit!!!
I’ve seen dogs flying heavier than 8kg, as long as they fit under the seat. Their dog is ideal weight.
I was told by Southwest Airlines that the dogs whole body MUST stay entirely inside the bag while on the plane.
Yes, every airline has this rule for the dog's safety as well as other passengers (some people are allergic to pet hairs). Sometimes you can be really lucky and they might be nice and overlook it and let your dog sit in your lap, but don't count on it. Most airlines don't allow that.
Yes, my cat has to be completely in carrier & under the seat throughout flight, including taxiing, takeoff, & landing. Wah. 🐈⬛️✈️💚
I am flying from Switzerland to California. How could my dog pee on the flight if he needs to? :/ Would you recommend a stop in between, for example in New York and then carry on? Or would you put pee pats into the carrier?
They have let relief areas in the airport but if also recommend pee pads in the carrier
😊 this video was of great help. I am planning to take my small dog on a flight. I will have to read and find more information about sizes and weights. Cause he is a slightly fat. 😆
Hugs and kisses to Sami from Taiwan ❤❤❤
What if the flight is long? Where can your dog use the restroom in flight?
We've been on a long flight from Europe to the USA and Sami didn't need to pee at all. We always make sure to walk him right before going through security and limit the amount of water, to keep him comfortable. Because there is no way for dogs to use the restroom during flights. What you can do is put a diaper on them just in case, or place a pee pad on the bottom of the carrier bag in case they pee. But that's about it.
So we always manage this by preparing before flights, to make it so that he won't need to pee.
What about toileting the dog when travelling? Anyone got any advice please?
Google "Service Animal Relief Station" at your airports. There should be information & map IF that airport has one.🐈⬛️✈️💚
Do u take your dog out and put him on your lap? During flight? I did not know you could do that! Very good video.
Also flew many times (PUG, from Ecuador to Germany). But no airline allows you to let the dog out, or worth sitting with you. Your buddy needs to stay in, and under the seat in front of you. Sure you can open to pet and serve water... but I got in trouble man times for letting her out. And yes... many diets also before the flight so the 8 kg weight limit is not exceeded.
Important to purchase the travel bag for the dog in advance so they get used to it... mine both actually love it.
I see in this video that your dog is on your lap or on the floor besides the bag, is this allowed? Would love to know for our fur baby!
Moving to Spain with puppy, thanks for this, your puppy is cool as shit, love him, this was a cool vid looks like, depending on airline, that they can come out a little from time to time?
Thank you for this video ❤️ I’m flying for the first time with my papillon in 3 weeks. Quite nervous 😬
I have a soft-sides carrier that’s approved by Delta, but I am going to fly on Alaska which requires slightly smaller size. Do I need to buy another carrier, in other words do they measure with a ruler?
Never flown before and planning on flying in the next few weeks. I have a 3 pound affen pinscher. Hes 6 yesrs old. Does the passport for pets HAVE to be 30 days before 🙏 imbgoing through alot right now and have a better opportunity in houston texas and needing to fly there in next 2 weeks
What airline allowed you to take him out the bag?
I really need ASAP the video about the diet of a Westie when he is so close to the limit weight. My westie is now 7.5 kilos and we are flying in a month 😩
Thank you for your video! it's the most informative video so far I have seen on this topics. Sami is super cute❤, traveling with fur babe is always more fun. I have an 16 lb Papillion mix. I hope taking him to travel with us soon and going through boarder's smoothly.
Thank you for the video. We fly in 2,5 weeks and I am a bit worried :) She is normally chill in car rides and sleeps in her bag, but I m not sure how she will act on the plane. I am afraid that she will cry and be stressed and annoy other passengers :(
Excellent
Hi dear,is it allowed to put the pets on our lap without the carrier or bag?
It is not allowed but it’s at discretion of the staff. I flew last year from Europe to Chicago and there was a dog at the seat behind me on the passenger.
I’ve noticed on flights that my feet get really cold sometimes from the floor, I can feel the cold coming up through the floor, what do you recommend to help keep dogs warm in their carriers on the floor during the flight? 😊 I’d love to take our cavachon on a flight with us but I don’t want him to freeze or get cold during the flight.
I always take Sami's blanket inside his carrier bag, so he can be comfy. Also, I pack 2 pee pads just in case he ever needs them (like in case of a flight delay) and I put them at the bottom of the carrier, under the blanket. This creates an extra layer of softness and warmth for him 😊
@@WestieVibes thank you very much! 😊🤗
@@WestieVibes thank you very much! 😊🤗
Great video! Thank you for sharing. I'm about to embark on my first flight with my dog later, a long international flight. We are 100% ready for it. He meets the weight and size requirements, however, he is not able to stand up in his carrier bag. According to what I've read online, most airlines require your dog to be able to stand up in their bag. Based on your experience, how strictly is this rule enforced? Also, I've read that some airlines do not let you take your dog out of their bag during the flight, while other airlines don't have a problem with taking them out. Any comments you have would be super helpful. Thank you so much!
Hey! I’m the same as you, flying later on in a long international flights and was wondering the same.. if they check that the dog stand up in the bag or not ? Did you trip passed? I would be curious to have your feedback too ! Thank you so much!
@@annaboue Hello, they did not check that my dog could stand up. They only weighed him and that was all .They didn't check the dimensions of the carrier either. It turned out to be a very comfortable flight as I had an empty seat next to me so I was able to keep my dog (in his carrier) beside me for the duration of the flight. I think it really depends on the airline, the route and the staff at the check-in counter. I flew with Austrian Airlines and was super impressed with how accommodating and friendly they were. This was my experience but I think I also got quite lucky too. The flight was 10.5 hours.
@@jeffsilver5762 what happens when the dog has to use the restroom during the flight? My dog could never hold it that long.
@@mikejrexec That's a good point. I guess each dog has a different tolerance level. We used the carrier at home often so he was quite used to being in it. I know that my dog can go at least 12 hours without having to pee. So a 10-hr flight, including all of the boarding time, checking in etc. that works out to be about 12 hours. It's not something that I recommend or to do often but it can be done. It might be possible to train your dog to use pee pads. You can put them in the carrier and see if he will understand that it will be ok to pee there. But most dogs won't pee where they sleep, unless it's an absolute emergency, right?
@@jeffsilver5762 thank you very much. I was imagining myself carrying the bag and dog to the restroom, laying down pads all over and waiting for something to happen. Not a pleasant thought. Thanks
Would you be able to state which bag that you bought for Sammy?
You can find the link to the bag in this video in the description 😊 Also, since then, I switched to the Sherpa Original Deluxe (on Amazon) size L. Both are great dog carriers, I recommend them both 👍🏻
Thank you! The Sherpa doesn’t expand though? Can I ask why you changed to a more restrictive bag?
I have a 29 lb Doodle and I live in Florida but family is in Canada. It’s heartbreaking that I can’t find a way to fly with her. At Christmas we drove 12 hours a day for 4 days (risking our lives because the weather was so treacherous in the northern areas) so that she could be with us for a month. Do you have any suggestions?
Sami is gorgeous and tiny. My last Westie, Linus was tiny like Sami. One thing you didn’t cover was, what about giving Sami places to relieve himself (let him pee). What do you do?
I would definitely like to learn more as my Westie is over 8kg. Am wanting to fly from UK to Spain, but won't go without him :) Our vet told us there are no longer pet passports, and that all is needed now is a health certificate. I hope they are correct! Would like to hear from anyone here that have made the same flight as I'm planning to do. My biggest fear is that my Westie will bark a lot on the plane. He's not as well behaved, trained as Sami.
You can also double check with the airline, to make sure. Can you train your dog a little bit in the weeks before? Teach him to stay inside the bag, reward him with high value treats, maybe keep him in there in the evenings, as you watch TV next to him? Just integrate the bag into your routine, so by the time you fly with him, he knows it's normal for him to sit in there.
You could even bring him along in a public place somewhere, like a supermarket or restaurant, inside the carrier. For him to get used to it.☺
Also: make sure you never reward him when he barks. Wait for him to be quiet and only then reward. Otherwise, he will bark just to get more treats and you don't want that 😄
@@WestieVibes Good idea. :)
You could try putting him on a diet for a while to get him under the weight….and perhaps increase the exercise time…..don’t forget the weight of the bag as well and allow for different scales…..I think it is correct about the passports…..since leaving eu. It will be on government website. I took my westie to Italy from uk post brexit and flew with PetAir……at that time it was the only company flying pets because of covid, and it was expensive……but they took good care of him and saw to all the paperwork and took responsibility for it, he wasn’t allowed to go in the cabin with me, but mine is very good and I saw him when they put him on the ✈️. Make sure he has had all the correct vaccinations etc etc. keep all the paperwork with you. hope it all goes well.
We have flown from Heathrow to Madrid with our dog with Iberia! They didn’t weigh him but every flight staff is different! Vueling has a weight limit of 8kg
@@remyaroundtheworld Have just checked with them. Weight limit is 8 kg, but mine weights 8.5 kg. Not far off though.
Hi Miruna and Sami,
Thank you for the great information.
We are flying from San Francisco to Tokyo with our dog she is 40 pounds how do they take care of her on the plane for 11 hoursOn Japan Airline
Buna, ce faci? If you happen to read this, could you help me, te rog? I'm planning to travel to Romania for the summer with my cat from the United States. Have you taken your Westie as a carry-on on an international/transatlantic flight? And if so, which airline did you use? Multumesc and great vids! Noroc/Cheers
airline that allows them in cabin to the UK?
All websites are mentionning that the dog needs to be able to stand up qnd turn around while inside the carrier. That doesnt seem to be the case for your dog. My dog's head come out of the carrier if he doesn't put it down or lies down. Im worried could this be an issue?
It's true, this is the rule with most airlines, but they don't always enforce it. We've been lucky that every time we fly with Sami we check in with him outside his bag, so they never ask to see him stand and turn inside the bag. If they did, chances are they woulndn't allow him on the plane, which is a possibility we always have in mind when we fly with him 😅
We only had one incident, one time when they wanted to put Sami in cargo and here is a video of the story: th-cam.com/video/LHNTRqY6Irs/w-d-xo.html
Hi,
I see that n your puppy does not remain in the carrier. Does the airline allow you to take the puppy out of the carrier?
what a shame! i collect my border collie puppy in a week however my father is going to new york in january.. me and my mother would like to go but dont want to leave him behind nor do we want him to come along as cargo... he will be just over 4 months old by then so probably over 8kg (edit; just googled this and he would be 15-18lbs which is 6.8- 8.2kg approx.. there is still hope haha). we would be flying from London so even more of a struggle.. thanks for the vid
Pls let me know what’s the full cost of travel
It depends on the airline and the destination. We paid around 60 euros pet fee (for one way) within Europe. But it was $200 to fly Sami from Europe to the US (also one way). You can always go to the airline's website under "pet travel" and see the pet fees.
Thanks for the video. I have a question about rabies vaccine to be administered 30 days before the flight departure - does it mean Sammy has to receive 3 rabies vaccine in a year if you bring him for 3 trips?
No no. The vaccine we do it once every 2 years (because that's how long it's valid for) and it needs to be administered no less than 30 days before the departure. That's because it needs 30 days to start working.
I usually check Sami's passport quickly before planning a trip, to make sure the vaccine won't expire by the time we leave. Other than that, I don't do anything different 😊
@@WestieVibes I see thanks for explaining 😄
How do they use the bathroom at the airport?
They have dog stations.
It depends on the airport. You need to check their website. Some have "pet relief stations" past security, but others will require that you go outside and back through security. I'm going to be transferring in Korea which requires leaving security to go outside, but I don't have everything necessary to get the dogs back into security, so I'm planning to bring a puppy pad into the restroom and hopefully they will use that without too much fuss.
Very helpful. Thank you!
This a great video, very informative,
but you forgot to mention you travel with economy, business or first class? Personally me, I’m desperate to know 🙄.💚
As long as you pay your pet fee & the carrier fits under the seat (under middle seat is roomiest acc to flight attendants), "class" shouldn't make any difference. 🐈⬛️✈️💚
@@ukoutlaw5238 thank you for the info 💚