Many of us consider our pets to be members of the family when we travel. It might be heartbreaking to consider leaving behind a beloved animal companion while travelling, whether they be a devoted dog or a purring cat. Fortunately, Air Canada understands how crucial it is to keep families together, even at 30,000 feet. This blog post will examine Air Canada's pet policy and provide tips on how to travel in safety and comfort with your cherished pets.
Major Canadian airline Air Canada provides pet transportation services under the name Air Canada Pets. Depending on the size and type of the pet, Air Canada gives passengers the option to fly with their dogs in the cabin or as cargo. For the protection and comfort of animals travelling by air, there are certain rules and regulations in place. Typically, these requirements cover things like pet carriers, health records, and booking procedures.
What are the pet travel options provided by Air Canada?
Air Canada offers several pet travel options, catering to the diverse needs of pet owners:
In-Cabin Travel:
You are allowed to bring small pets with you into the cabin as long as they adhere to the airline's weight and size regulations. This choice offers the most comfort and assurance because your pet is always by your side. Booking in advance is mandatory due to the restricted supply.
For many pet owners, the ideal option is to have their pet with them in the cabin. Air Canada allows this for pets meeting specific criteria:
Size and Weight Restrictions: Your pet must be small enough to fit comfortably in a carrier that can be stored beneath the seat in front of you and is authorised by the airline. A standard carrier has a maximum height, width, and length of 21 cm (8.5 inches), 38 cm (15 inches), and 43 cm (17 inches). Your pet's total weight in the carrier shouldn't be more than 10 kg (22 lbs).
Booking in Advance: It's crucial to book your pet's travel well in advance, as there are limited spots available for in-cabin travel. Be prepared to provide all necessary documentation, such as a health certificate, when booking your flight.
Cabin Conditions: Pets travelling in the cabin must remain in their carriers the whole flight. The carrier, which should be well ventilated, should allow your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Air Canada's flight attendants are skilled at assisting passengers who are travelling with pets, ensuring that everyone has a secure and comfortable trip.
Fees: There is an additional fee for in-cabin pet travel, which varies depending on your flight's destination. It's essential to check the airline's website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on fees.
Checked Pet Travel:
You can choose checked pet travel if your pet doesn't fulfil the standards for in-cabin travel or if you'd like they fly in a different section. Your animal companion will be kept in a temperature-controlled area of the cargo hold. Air Canada follows stringent procedures to guarantee the security and welfare of dogs while they are travelling.
If your pet doesn't meet the in-cabin requirements or you prefer them to travel in a separate area, Air Canada offers checked pet travel. Here are the key details:
Booking and Documentation: Similar to in-cabin travel, you must book checked pet travel in advance. Additionally, you'll need to provide a health certificate from your veterinarian, ensuring that your pet is fit for travel.
Temperature Control: One of the primary concerns for pets traveling in the cargo hold is temperature control. Air Canada takes this seriously, ensuring that the cargo hold maintains a suitable temperature range to keep your pet comfortable and safe.
Size and Breed Restrictions: Compared to in-cabin pet travel, checked pet travel allows for a greater variety of pet sizes and breeds, but there are still some limitations and standards. For detailed information based on the qualities of your pet, make sure to check the Air Canada website or speak with their customer support.
Cargo Travel:
Larger animals or those going to places where checked pet service isn't offered might have to fly in the cargo hold. To protect the security and comfort of pets travelling in cargo, Air Canada takes all necessary precautions. Larger dogs are a good candidate for this choice, and certain breeds with particular physical traits are better suited for cargo transit.
Cargo travel is typically reserved for larger pets or those traveling to destinations without checked pet service. Here's what you need to know:
Crate Requirements: Your pet will need to travel in an airline-approved crate, meeting specific guidelines regarding size, ventilation, and safety. Proper labeling of the crate is also essential to ensure your pet's well-being.
Health and Documentation: As with the other travel options, a health certificate from your veterinarian is mandatory for cargo travel. Ensure that all required documentation is in order before your flight.
Special Considerations: When travelling in cargo, several breeds and pet traits may call for extra safety measures. It's crucial to review Air Canada pet policy and seek advice from their specialists to make sure your pet is secure and comfortable.
What Tips are required for Pet Travel?
Regardless of the travel option you choose, here are some general tips to make the journey as smooth as possible for both you and your pet:
Visit the Veterinarian: Before traveling, schedule a visit to your veterinarian to ensure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations.
Identification: Ensure your pet has proper identification, including a collar with contact information and a microchip if possible.
Familiarize Your Pet: Help your pet become accustomed to their carrier or crate before the trip, making it a comfortable and familiar space.
Travel Essentials: Pack essentials like food, water, medications, and a favorite toy to keep your pet comfortable during the journey.
Arrive Early: Arrive at the airport well in advance to allow time for check-in procedures and security checks.
Conclusion
With a variety of alternatives for taking your furry friends along, Air Canada's pet policy ensures their security and comfort. The safety of your cherished pets is the airline's top priority, regardless of whether your pet is tiny enough to fly in the cabin or needs the more extensive facilities of checked or cargo flight. By according to their advice and making the necessary preparations, you may set off on your journeys with your furry family members by your side, making priceless memories both on the ground and in the air.
