Meg Burns Dolson's Profile

We fly with our dog all the time, and he is always checked below the plane. We've never had a problem. I think it really depends on your own attitude and level of anxiety. Finn is always happy to go to the airport and meet people/sniff new smells, and he happily jumps in his crate when it's time to go. Book as far in advance as possible. We don't fly with him in summer or winter (I would be too afraid of it being too hot or cold, even though it's temperature controlled down where they put the pooches).

Obviously make sure he's comfortable in his crate in general and has no anxiety about it. Give him lots of exercise before going to the airport. Arrive early so that you're not stressed, and you'll have lots of time to take him for an additional walk once you've done preliminary check in at the counter. We give him half a sedative that we get from the vet---not enough to make him dopey, just to make him extra calm. I have a dish that attaches to his crate which I put in the freezer with water the night before. Then it can slowly defrost over the course of the flight. Usually give him a new chew stick or peanut butter kong right before he is carried off. I also attach a sheet to the top of his crate that has flight number, flight transfer information, my name, phone number, and seat numbers. Info about the dog, and a picture of him. I tape a ziplock bag to the top of his crate with extra food in case of a lay-over/delay. Be friendly to EVERYONE who works at airport. Ask when you check in if someone will confirm with you when dog has been loaded onto the right plane. Ask again before boarding the plane. Ask again once on plane. As long as you're calm and friend, and explain the situation, the flight attendants/cargo crew/captain will likely be happy to help.

That said, we've only ever flown with Finnegan on domestic flights within Canada (West Jet/Air Canada). I couldn't imagine ever checking him below on an American flight, as I've never once flown within the US and had myself delivered either on time and/or to the correct location.

I feel like it would be easier/quicker to invest in a dog.

Oh WOW, I LOVE how whimsical the ribbons are!