Embarking on adventures with our furry companions is a growing trend, and transforming it into a stress-free escapade is entirely within reach when you adhere to a few essential guidelines.
In the company of her spirited 3-year-old Maltese companion, this avid traveler delves into a world of pre-adventure research. Before securing her ticket, she meticulously explores the pet policies of airlines, hotels, and service providers.
The surge in pet-friendly travel indicates a growing trend, and with a few strategic guidelines, transforming your journey into a seamless and joyful experience is well within reach. Here’s an exclusive list of provisions to ensure your travels with pets are not only stress-free but also delightful.
Airlines
• Before you embark on your journey and make arrangements to take your pet, do get a go-ahead from your vet regarding the same.
• Once that is done, find yourself a pet-friendly airline; your pet will need to have a rabies vaccination certificate before being allowed to board.
• Some airlines specify the number of pets that can be carried, in addition to the size of the transport kennels. For instance, an airline policy reads, ”the pet must be properly carried in soft ventilated bags/kennel in the prescribed size which cannot exceed 18″ x 18″ x 12″. The weight of the pet, including the container, should not exceed five kg. For carriage in the cabin. Pets of larger size/weight will be carried in the cargo hold
• In most airlines, two pets are allowed per passenger. Any additional pets could be charged extra.
• Your pet must be atleast 8-10 weeks old at the time of undertaking any air travel.
• Airlines have the right to refuse to take any pet on-board if they feel that the pet is aggressive, is pregnant, or has unweaned offsprings.
• For the comfort of your pet, choose a well-ventilated, non-chewable, tamper-and-leak-proof crate, testing it in advance with your pet and labelling it with relevant pet and owner details.
• Do remember that these are general guidelines, and each airline has its own policy on letting pets travel by air. Do your research before booking a flight.
• For example, in case you are travelling by Air India, you need to know that small inoffensive domestic pets such as dogs, cats and birds, accompanied by valid Health and Rabies vaccination certificates, will be accepted on Air India domestic flights in the cabin or in cargo hold at owner’s risk and subject to requirements of the carrier. Such carriage is subject to the approval of the commander of the flight.
• As a rule, IndiGo does not permit the carriage of animals on its flights. The only exception to this rule are guide dogs for blind passengers.
• SpiceJet carries live animals on the Boeing B737-800 and 900 series aircraft, only in the hold. No live animal is allowed in the passenger cabin. The rule also states that animals such as dogs, cats and other pets must be properly crated and accompanied by valid health and vaccination certificates and other documents required for carriage by air.
• Also, note that most airlines will ensure that you sign a consent form before your pet is allowed to be on the flight, and typically the form will read :‘The owner will assume all the risks of injury, sickness or death of the pet accepted for carriage.’
Indian Railways:
• Ready to roll with an eclectic crew of donkeys, sheep, goats, and a canine posse? Pony up an extra Rs 30, the backstage pass fee according to the symphony of Section 77-A in the Indian Railway Act.
• Got big dogs with swagger – Labradors, Boxers, German Shepherds stealing the spotlight? It’s time to reserve not one but two berths or, for the truly elite, an entire four-berth compartment in the First AC coach. Of course, this VIP experience doesn’t come cheap, so loosen those purse strings.
• First AC all the way? Your furball can join the high-society club, but only if your fellow passengers give the nod of approval. Pre-pay the canine cover charge, and remember, objections from co-passengers could lead to a sudden canine relocation to the Guard’s van, sans refund.
• Small dog, big dreams? We’ve got boxes starting at a steal of Rs 10. Pick the perfect pod for your pint-sized partner, and let the journey begin in style.
• Chow time! Unfortunately, the railway pantry won’t be whipping up gourmet meals for your pet. Pack the kibble and water, because a hungry pet is not a happy traveler.
• Pet fashion alert! Collars and chains are the must-have accessories for every fashion-forward canine adventurer. Ensure your pup is runway-ready before boarding the pet-friendly express.
• Attention, unbooked doggos! The railway fare police are on patrol. Caught without a ticket? Brace yourself for a toll six times the Luggage Scale Rate, with a rock-bottom minimum of Rs 50. A small investment for a ticket to the wild ride of rail adventures! 🚂🐾
Essential Reminders for Pet Travel
• Just as you aim for a smooth journey, extend the comfort to your furry companion.
• Planning a road trip with your pet? Test the waters with short joy rides to gauge their reaction. After all, even pets can experience a touch of car-sickness.
• While the wind in their fur might seem tempting, resist the urge to let your pet stick their head out of the window—it’s a safety hazard.
• Hydration is key! Ensure your pet has ample water and make frequent stops for a leg stretch and bathroom breaks.
• Pack your pet’s travel dossier—vet certificates, vaccination records, the whole shebang.
• Toss in a familiar blanket or toy into the crate; it’s like a slice of home on the go.
• The vet’s advice? Skip the sedation. Let your pet experience the journey with all senses intact.
With these pointers, here’s to a journey filled with wagging tails and travel tales! 🚗🐾