Flying with Your Pet: What You Need To Know

Travelling with your pet can be a delightful experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation to ensure a smooth journey.

This guide provides everything you need to know and offers expert tips for flying with your furry friend. From understanding legal requirements and ensuring your pet's comfort during the flight to making the most of private jet services, SHY’s team of experts has the answers to any of your questions to help you through the process.

Whether you're a seasoned traveller or it's your pet's first flight, this comprehensive guide will help make the experience enjoyable and stress-free for both you and your beloved companion.

Firstly, the obvious benefit is that your furry friend can join you in the cabin, regardless of their size. Unlike commercial airlines, which have strict regulations on the size and weight of pets and require them to travel in the hold, private jets offer much more flexibility. This means your pet can stay close by and even sit on your lap, making the journey far less stressful for both of you.

Additionally, private charters allow you to bring more than one pet on the flight, something commercial airlines typically do not permit.

Moreover, the departure time of your private jet is according to your schedule, allowing ample time to prepare your pet for the journey. The simpler boarding process eliminates queues and long waits at airport terminals; you can arrive just half an hour before take-off.

This convenience ensures a smoother travel experience for you and your pet.

Know the Legal Requirements

 

When flying with your pet, it is crucial to understand the legal requirements, both in the country you are travelling from and the destination you’re travelling to.

In general, pets must be at least 8 weeks old, fully weaned, and in good health. However, each country has different regulations, so ensure you have a thorough understanding of the necessary information, vaccinations, and paperwork before boarding.

Fortunately, our aviation specialists are experts and can guide you through the process, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for you and your furry companion.

 

Sedation of Pets

 

Alongside veterinarians and commercial airlines, we recommend against sedating or tranquillising your pet. While many believe it helps them relax, it can pose significant risks, such as increased heart rate or respiratory issues.

Sedation is only considered an option under very specific circumstances. Be sure to speak to your veterinarian about your pet’s needs in advance.

 

Feeding Your Pet When Travelling

 

Some animals may struggle to eat properly during the journey. Therefore, we recommend ensuring your pet is well-fed and hydrated the night before the flight.

Additionally, provide them with an opportunity to relieve themselves before boarding the plane to avoid any discomfort during the flight. This preparation helps to ensure a smoother and more comfortable travel experience for your furry friend.

Reducing Pet Anxiety During Travel

 

From smell to touch to sight to sound, anxiety can come in various forms for pets. To help ease their stress during flights, bring along familiar toys or blankets.

Explore the market for products designed to soothe pets in anxious situations, such as comfort shirts that apply gentle, constant pressure, pheromone releasers, and noise cancellers.

These solutions can significantly reduce anxiety and make the journey more comfortable for your furry companion.

 

Onboard Comfort for Your Pet

 

Pets should have access to water throughout the flight. On shorter flights, they may manage without needing a bathroom break, especially with limited food and water intake beforehand. However, it's important to have a contingency plan in case the need arises.

Depending on the pet, owners might bring a litter box, training pads, or other products designed for in-flight relief. These preparations ensure your pet remains comfortable and the journey is smooth.

Provide Food and Water

 

Depending on the length of the trip and how your pet handled the flight, it might be hungry and thirsty upon landing. Speak to your SHY Aviation specialist, and we will arrange for the right amount of nourishing food and fresh water to be waiting for you on arrival. 

 

Exercise with Your Furry Friend

 

Taking your pet for a walk or engaging them in exercise shortly after your flight can help them acclimate to the new destination. If you would like assistance in arranging for somewhere to do this as soon as you have landed, your SHY Aviation specialist will liaise with the flight operator and the airport to ensure your request is taken care of.

Flying with your pet can be smooth and enjoyable with the right preparation.

For a seamless travel experience, contact SHY Aviation today, and we will make sure you and your pet have the perfect private jet flight. Safe travels!