Flying with a Dog: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Let’s Be Honest: Flying Is Stressful (For Both of You)

Air travel is noisy, crowded, and unpredictable. For dogs, it’s a sensory overload. From the unfamiliar airport buzz to hours in a crate, it can be overwhelming. But with smart planning, you can take turbulence out of the equation—for you and your pup.

1. Start with the Airline

Not every airline handles pets the same way. Before you book, check:

1. Pet policies: Some only allow dogs under a certain weight in-cabin. Others require cargo travel.
2. Fees: Budget for pet fees—they’re often per leg of the trip.
3. Documentation: Health certificates or vaccination records may be required.

👉 Pro tip: Call the airline directly after booking. Confirm your pet’s spot early—seating for dogs is limited.

2. Prep Your Dog Before the Flight

Think of this as training camp for the big day.

1. Get comfortable with the carrier: Let your dog explore, nap, and snack in it at home.
2. Short practice trips: Take your dog on car rides in the carrier to mimic travel stress.
3. Exercise first: A long walk before heading to the airport = a calmer, more relaxed dog in-flight.

3. Day-of Flight Checklist

1. Arrive early to give your dog a chance to potty and settle before boarding.
2. Stick to light meals—no one wants an upset stomach at cruising altitude.
3. Pack a small travel kit with water, collapsible bowl, waste bags, favorite toy, and a calming blanket.

4. Managing Anxiety in the Air

This is where wellness support makes all the difference. Airplanes can be overstimulating—loud engines, cramped spaces, strangers everywhere.

1. For small to medium dogs, our Get Zen tincture blends calming botanicals with CBD to support relaxation without grogginess. Perfect for pups navigating cabin chaos.
2. For large breeds or long-haul flights, the 2000MG tincture delivers extra support with higher potency, helping big dogs stay calm, cool, and collected for the duration of the trip.

Always start with a trial run before your flight, so you know the right dose and how your dog responds.

5. Safety and Comfort First

1. Never sedate without your vet’s approval. Sedatives can affect breathing at altitude.
2. Hydrate smart. Offer water before boarding and during layovers, not constantly in-flight.
3. Monitor stress cues. Whining, panting, or pacing = signs your pup needs a break when you land.

Flying with your dog will never be totally stress-free—but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Planning ahead, prepping with your airline, and supporting your dog’s wellness can turn a chaotic trip into a manageable one.

Final Tip: Book smart, prep early, and pack Get Zen or 2000MG tincture in your carry-on. Because keeping your dog calm at 30,000 feet? That’s not just self-care—it’s survival.

For more no-BS wellness insights → Bark Times