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The safety of flying with pets varies widely depending on an individual pet’s temperament, anxiety level and underlying health issues, as well as the duration of the flight and temperature both at the destination and departure location. Generally speaking, most pets do not make the best travel companions while flying, as they can become very anxious with the hustle and bustle of the terminal, loud noises on the airplane and handling during security checkpoints. Anxious pets are more likely to become destructive, vocal or have accidents. Larger pets need to travel in crates in the baggage compartment of the plane, where they are unsupervised and may be exposed to extreme temperatures for potentially prolonged periods of time while waiting to be loaded or unloaded from the plane. In addition, most airlines require a veterinarian to sign off on the health of the pet before they can fly in cargo. When possible, most pets will be more comfortable and safer if left at home with a trusted friend or pet sitter or may travel better by car. If you must travel with your pet, be sure to pack a travel water bowl, extra food, a leash, travel litter pan, supply of medication and bags for cleanup. Always discuss the safety of flying with your individual pet with your veterinarian.
Updated on September 24th, 2025

Hi there and thanks for your post on PetCoach! I would recommend calming supplements for your pets that have L-theanine in them which can have a calming effect. I would recommend a product called Composure from VetriScience which comes in a liquid and chewable form. I have the product linked below: I hope this helps!
Updated on September 24th, 2025

Other fun things are a safety blanket, collar and leash, id tags just in case, Benadryl tablets in case of sting etc at a rest stop, and sounds like you have the rest covered! Happy travels to you and Bella!
Updated on September 24th, 2025

Hello! Travel can be very stressful so it's good you're looking into this for your pets. Unfortunately for pets traveling via air there aren't many oral medications that have been proven safe. Some of the calming supplements and thunder shirts have had some success with travel and could be tried. I recommend trying them weeks before travel just in case they don't work so different options can be tried. Continuing in acclimating your pet to the crate is a good idea. Try making it a safe place for your pet with toys, treats, favorite blanket, etc Lastly you should follow your airlines' guidelines on last feeding/watering. It can vary depending on flight lengths, layovers, etc.
Updated on September 24th, 2025

VetriScience Composure chews or liquid daily for at least a few days prior to your trip is effective in noticeably calming many patients. It contains natural ingredients including theanine and is available on chewy.com and PetCo.com. If you find that the Composure is not sufficiently relaxed with just Composure, I would schedule an appointment with your vet to make sure that Rexy is up to date on vaccines and flea/tick/heart worm prevention and to inquire about a sedative such as trazadone or prescription Xanax that your vet may be comfortable with for Rexy. If you are flying, definitely inquire with the airline about whether an official health certificate is required. Enjoy your vacation!
Updated on September 24th, 2025