If you're moving or traveling and wish to take your pet along with you, you'll need to arrange for a pet flight service in order to help transport the animal. While smaller animals like cats and certain breeds of dog can travel along with you in the cabin of a plane, there are other situations in which you will not be able to travel with your pet. If you have a larger pet, or if you need to ship your pet to another person at another location and aren't planning to travel with the pet, you should look into a pet flight service. Read on for some of the most important things to look for in a pet flight service.
Climate Control during the Flight
Many pets will become overheated or too cold while traveling. This is a major concern for pet owners, particularly if your pet will be traveling for a great distance. Keep in mind that a good pet flight service should have climate control both while your pet is flying and also in the holding and handling areas that are set up within airports. This is crucial to your pet having a safe and comfortable journey.
Adequate Space in Flight
Some pet flight services will not provide your pet with ample space in which to sit, lie down or move around. Check to see if you can see the area in which your pet will be waiting inside of the airport, as well as the area that your pet will be in on the flight as well. This can be a major factor in determining which pet flight service will be the best for your needs.
Professional Handlers on Flight Services
Handlers should be on hand at all times while your pet is traveling. However, some pet flight services will not have trained professionals as handlers. It's a good idea to check on the credentials of anyone who will be working with your pet to help facilitate his travel as well. Handlers should be trained in veterinary emergencies and should be provided with ample food and equipment for the safe and effective transport of your dog, cat or other animal.
Pet Flight Insurance
It's also a good idea to invest in a pet flight service that offers insurance or some other guarantee of safe travel for your pet. The cost of the insurance coverage may increase the total cost of your pet's flight service somewhat, but it is worth it for the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your pet will be protected and looked after well while traveling.
Most airline companies offer their own pet flight services. You can read reviews of these different services online. You may also wish to consult with your vet or with other pet owners who have made use of these pet flight services before you go, as these recommendations can be very helpful in providing you an idea of which services will be best.