Traveling with Anxiety: A Guide to Calming Your Pet During Air Travel

Air travel can be stressful for humans, but for our furry companions, it can be downright terrifying! At DogzyHub, we understand the challenges of traveling with anxious pets. Whether you're moving abroad or taking your four-legged family member on vacation, here's our guide to ensuring a calm, comfortable journey for your beloved pet.

Understanding Pet Travel Anxiety

Many pets experience anxiety during air travel due to unfamiliar surroundings, strange noises, and separation from their owners. Signs of pet travel anxiety include:

• Excessive vocalization (barking, meowing, whining)

• Trembling or shaking

• Panting or drooling

• Refusing to eat

• Attempting to escape their carrier

• Accidents despite being house-trained

  
  

Recognizing these signs early helps you take proactive steps to manage your pet's stress before international pet relocation.

Pre-Travel Preparation: Setting Your Pet Up for Success

Start carrier training early. Introduce your pet to their travel carrier weeks before your flight. Place treats, toys, and comfortable bedding inside to create positive associations. For international pet shipping, this familiarity becomes crucial.

Practice short car rides. Help your pet adjust to movement and confinement with brief trips that gradually increase in duration.

Maintain routine. Keep feeding and exercise schedules consistent before travel day to minimize additional stress during pet transport services.

Visit your veterinarian. Schedule a check-up to ensure your pet is healthy enough to travel and discuss appropriate options for managing travel anxiety based on your pet's specific temperament and health needs.

Calming Solutions for Air Travel Day

Natural calming aids: Consult with your veterinarian about pet-safe calming options that might be appropriate for your pet's specific needs during international travel.

Familiar comforts: Place an unwashed t-shirt with your scent in their carrier along with a favorite toy, creating a sense of security during overseas pet transport.

Minimize food and water: Feed a light meal 4-6 hours before travel to reduce the risk of nausea, while ensuring proper hydration beforehand.

Exercise before departure: A good play session or long walk helps burn excess energy, potentially encouraging your pet to rest during the flight.

During the Flight: When You're Traveling in Cabin

If you're fortunate enough to have your pet in the cabin with you during international pet travel:

Speak softly and reassuringly if airline policies allow you to open the carrier briefly to comfort your pet.

Avoid constantly checking on them, which can increase their anxiety rather than alleviate it.

Place the carrier under the seat in front of you rather than in the aisle where more activity might startle them.

After Arrival: Helping Your Pet Decompress

Once you've completed your international pet relocation:

Give them time to adjust in a quiet room with familiar items from home.

Reestablish routines as quickly as possible to provide security and normality.

Be patient with behavioral changes as your pet adapts to their new environment.

At DogzyHub, we specialize in making pet travel as stress-free as possible.

Our experienced team can help with everything from paperwork to choosing pet-friendly airlines for your international move.

Remember, with proper preparation and care, even the most anxious pets can have a comfortable journey to their new home abroad!