The short answer
Start with the paperwork weeks ahead, practise with a carrier or harness, give your dog a good walk and a light meal before the flight, and pack the originals of every document plus a familiar blanket, water bowl and waste bags.
Weeks before
- Speak to the charter team and your vet about the rules for your route
- Book the vet visits in the right order and time window
- Practise with the carrier or harness so it is familiar
The day before
- Check you have the original documents, not copies
- Write down the microchip number
- Pack a bag: blanket, bowl, treats, waste bags, towel and any medication
The day
- A good walk before you arrive at the airfield
- A light meal a few hours before, not just before take-off
- Arrive at the time you are given and tell the crew about anything your dog needs
You can download our pet travel checklist and timeline as a PDF.