How to Travel with Your Dog on Allegiant Airlines
If you love traveling with your dog, you need to plan and prepare well for your trip. You need to choose an airline that allows dogs in the cabin and follow their rules and regulations. One of the airlines that has a pet-friendly policy is Allegiant Airlines, a low-cost carrier that flies to various destinations in the US and Canada. Allegiant Airlines lets you bring your dog with you in the cabin, as long as you meet some requirements and pay a fee.
This article will show you how to travel with your dog on Allegiant Airlines, from booking your ticket to landing at your destination. You will also learn some tips and tricks on how to get your dog ready for the flight, what to pack for your dog's travel kit, how to make your dog comfortable and safe during the flight, and what to do after landing with your dog.
Whether you are traveling for vacation, business, or relocation, you can have a great time with your dog on Allegiant Airlines. Read on to find out how to make it happen!
Why Travel with Your Dog on Allegiant Airlines?
Allegiant Airlines is a good choice for traveling with your dog for several reasons. First, Allegiant Airlines allows dogs in the cabin, which means that you can stay with your dog during the flight. This can help your dog feel more calm and secure, and also give you peace of mind that your dog is safe and comfortable.
Second, Allegiant Airlines has a simple and flexible pet policy. You don't need to reserve a spot for your dog in advance, you can just show up at the airport with your dog and pay the fee at the check-in counter. The fee is $100 per segment, which is lower than some other airlines that charge per direction. You can also bring any kind of dog, no matter their breed or size, as long as they fit in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you.
Third, Allegiant Airlines offers a wide range of destinations across the US and Canada, so you can find a flight that matches your travel plans. Whether you want to go to a sunny beach, a snowy mountain, or a bustling city, you can find an Allegiant Airlines flight that will take you and your dog there.
What are the Requirements and Fees for Traveling with Your Dog on Allegiant Airlines?
Before you book your flight with Allegiant Airlines, you need to make sure that you and your dog meet the requirements and pay the fees for traveling with your dog. Here are some of the main things you need to know:
- You can only bring one dog per passenger, and up to two dogs per flight. The dogs must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned.
- You need to have a soft-sided carrier that is leak-proof, well-ventilated, and large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The carrier must not exceed 9 inches high x 16 inches wide x 19 inches deep, and must fit under the seat in front of you. You can use your own carrier or buy one from Allegiant Airlines for $50.
- You need to pay a fee of $100 per segment for traveling with your dog. You can pay the fee at the check-in counter when you arrive at the airport. You will also receive a pet tag that you need to attach to your carrier.
- You need to have a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian that states that your dog is healthy and fit to fly. The certificate must be issued within 10 days of your departure date and must include your name, your dog's name, breed, age, weight, and vaccination records.
- You need to follow the rules and regulations of the destination country or state regarding pet travel. You may need to have additional documents or vaccinations for your dog depending on where you are going. You can check the requirements on the official websites of the destination country or state or contact their embassy or consulate for more information.
How to Get Your Dog Ready for the Flight?
Flying can be a stressful and unfamiliar experience for your dog, so you need to get them ready before the flight. Here are some tips on how to do that:
- Train your dog to be comfortable in the carrier. You can start by putting some treats and toys inside the carrier and letting your dog explore it. Then you can gradually increase the time that your dog spends inside the carrier, closing the door and carrying it around. You can also take your dog on short car rides or walks with the carrier to simulate the flight conditions. Make sure to praise and reward your dog for being calm and relaxed inside the carrier.
- Visit your veterinarian and get a health certificate and any necessary vaccinations for your dog. You can also ask your veterinarian for advice on how to handle any health issues or special needs that your dog may have during the flight, such as motion sickness, anxiety, or allergies. You can also ask your veterinarian if you can give your dog any medication or supplements to help them deal with the stress of flying.
- Avoid feeding your dog too much before the flight. You can give your dog a light meal and some water about four hours before the flight, but avoid giving them any food or water within two hours of departure. This will help prevent any accidents or discomfort during the flight. You can also pack some snacks and a water bottle for your dog in case they get hungry or thirsty during the flight or after landing.
- Exercise your dog before the flight. You can take your dog for a long walk or play with them before you head to the airport. This will help them burn off some energy and calm down their nerves. You can also let them go to the bathroom before you check in, and look for any pet relief areas at the airport if you have a long layover or delay.
What to Pack for Your Dog's Travel Kit?
When traveling with your dog on Allegiant Airlines, you need to pack some essentials for your dog's comfort and safety. Here are some items that you should pack in your dog's travel kit:
- A soft-sided carrier that meets the airline's requirements and has a pet tag attached to it. You can also put a blanket, a pillow, or a familiar toy inside the carrier to make your dog feel more cozy and secure.
- A leash and a collar or harness with an ID tag that has your name, phone number, and address. You can also consider micro chipping your dog or using a GPS tracker for extra security.
- A health certificate and vaccination records from your veterinarian. You may also need to bring any other documents or certificates that are required by the destination country or state.
- Any medication or supplements that your dog may need during the flight or after landing. You can also bring some natural remedies or calming aids to help your dog cope with the stress of flying, such as lavender oil, chamomile tea, or CBD treats.
- Some snacks and a water bottle for your dog. You can also bring some wet wipes, paper towels, plastic bags, and a portable bowl for cleaning up any messes or spills.
- Some toys and treats to keep your dog entertained and happy during the flight. You can also bring a chew toy or a bone to help your dog relieve some pressure in their ears during takeoff and landing.
How to Make Your Dog Comfortable and Safe During the Flight?
Once you board the plane with your dog, you need to follow some rules and tips to ensure that your dog has a smooth and pleasant flight. Here are some things you need to do:
- Keep your dog in the carrier at all times. You cannot take your dog out of the carrier or hold them in your lap during the flight. You can only open the carrier slightly to check on your dog or give them some water or snacks. You also need to place the carrier under the seat in front of you and not in the overhead bin or on the floor.
- Avoid feeding your dog too much during the flight. You can give your dog some water or snacks occasionally, but avoid giving them any food that may cause them to have an upset stomach or diarrhea. You can also avoid giving them any ice cubes or cold water that may cause them to choke or cough.
- Follow the instructions of the flight crew and respect the other passengers. You need to comply with any requests or directions from the flight crew regarding your dog's safety and comfort. You also need to be considerate of the other passengers and avoid any noise or disturbance that may bother them. You can also thank the flight crew and the other passengers for their cooperation and kindness.
What to Do After Landing with Your Dog
After you land at your destination, you need to take some steps to make sure that your dog is safe and happy. Here are some things you need to do:
- Take your dog out of the carrier and let them stretch their legs and go to the bathroom. You can look for any pet relief areas at the airport or outside the terminal. You can also give your dog some water and food if they are hungry or thirsty.
- Check your dog for any injuries or illnesses that may have occurred during the flight. You can look for any cuts, bruises, scratches, or bites that may need medical attention. You can also check your dog's temperature, pulse, and breathing to see if they are normal. If you notice any abnormal signs or symptoms, you can contact a veterinarian or an animal hospital nearby.
- Adjust your dog to the new environment and time zone. You can help your dog get used to the new climate, culture, and people by exposing them gradually and positively. You can also help your dog adjust to the new time zone by following their regular feeding and sleeping schedule as much as possible. You can also avoid any strenuous activities or excitement that may cause your dog to be over stimulated or exhausted.
- Enjoy your trip with your dog. You can have fun and explore the new place with your dog, as long as you follow the rules and regulations of the destination country or state regarding pet travel. You can also look for any pet-friendly attractions, hotels, restaurants, or parks that you and your dog can visit and enjoy together.
