If you are going to a destination by plane temporarily or permanently and you want to take your animals with you, there are a number of provisions laid down by the different transporters to streamline this and ensure that the animals arrive at the new destination as comfortably as possible. What should you pay attention to, what to do and what not to do and when can a pet or pet in the cabin and when not?
Carrier good for animals
Most animals go into the cargo area, in a separate ventilated area. The cabin crew can monitor the animals in this area. It goes without saying that the carrier makes every effort to make the animals as comfortable as possible. However, with some airlines and certain flights, a small pet can also be taken in the cabin.
Cabin
Small dogs and cats can travel with different carriers in the cabin on European flights, provided they have a good transport basket of course (max. 20 cm high and not over 6 kilos in total). The basket / kennel can then be placed under the seat. It goes without saying that the animals may not be removed from the basket and they may not be fed. This must be reported to the airline in time, usually 48 hours before the flight and can take place online with different airlines.
Checked baggage
If the animal enters the separate area of the cargo hold, the animal must – depending on the company – be delivered between 4 and 5 hours before the flight. Apart from the temperature in the cargo area, there are also special boxes in which pets must be transported. These are for sale and sometimes you can also rent them. The large pet stores usually have these kennels in their range and they are also for sale at KLM on the internet. Brands such as Sky or Vari meet the requirements.
Also book this in time (at least 48 in advance, but it is better to do this earlier), because each passenger can register a maximum of three pets and space is limited (assuming you fly together, otherwise you can book normally). Furthermore, with most transporters you have an obligation to transport animals with a flat snout through the loading space. In the cabin they can otherwise have problems with breathing due to stress and heat.
Source: Passport own animals – Anna language
Travel documents
In addition to ensuring a good travel basket or kennel, it is important that the animal is fully vaccinated, including the vaccination against rabies (vaccination at least one month before departure), some countries have even more strict rules, check the website for this. The animal must have an international passport and a health certificate. It is advisable to attach a copy of these papers to the kennel and carry the original with you, as you carry your own passport.
Pet preparation
Normally, each animal has its own kennel, only for example two young (> 10 weeks) animals or animals that are the same size are allowed together, never exceeding 18 kilos in total weight. Let the animal get used to the kennel in the house (with the door open). Make sure that the animal does not get anything to eat or drink between 4 and 6 hours before the flight. Treat it as normally as possible and make sure that you do not have the nerves yourself, an animal will feel this and it can become restless itself. It goes without saying that this is not good for the flight. Also do not give sedatives. Of course, your pet may not be sick or injured and make sure you have any leashes with your own hand luggage.
The kennel should be large enough for your animal to stand and turn easily and remember to attach the animal’s name to a label on the kennel. The caretakers make it easier to call or pet such an animal. No straw on the floor, but a blanket with underneath? to be sure ?? some newspapers is fine. A blanket with a familiar scent is completely fine. Furthermore, there must of course be a food bowl and a drinking bowl. These must be attached to the kennel. You can attach the stickers (LIVE ANIMAL and ARROW UP) that go to the kennel yourself or the company will supply them to you. No padlocks, but a well-hinged door with standard latches.
Source: Own cat – Annastaal
Cost
The costs depend on the society and the size of the animal, but quickly count on amounts between ?? 150 to ?? 400 and if you have to transfer and the animal has to stay in a special kennel at the airport for a few hours, then you will also be charged for this. Think of the amount of ?? 100 to ?? 250.
Finally
Your animal is dear to you and for most people a regular part of the family. So you want the best for your pet. To avoid hassle at the airport, you better prepare well and make sure you have everything in order and the animal is as calm as possible. This way you can easily bridge a flight.
