You could soon be in the clouds with your favourite pooch right by your side.
The previous laws that banned owners from taking their pets into cabins are being relaxed this year, meaning it will be left up to individual airlines to decide whether pets are welcome on board.
Australia’s main airlines like Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Rex are expected to make announcements on their updated policies before the legal change comes into effect on December 2.
However, even if permission is given, there will still be guidelines to follow.
The new CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority) rules state: “When giving permission, you may need to consider the type of animal and how it is carried, contained and restrained; its reaction to noise and being out of its natural environment; nuisance to other passengers; distraction to flight crew; and how excrement or fluids will be contained.”
“A large animal should always be secured so as not to damage or affect the balance of the aircraft in flight. A small or medium-sized animal carried in the cabin would normally need as a minimum to be restrained during takeoff and landing and in turbulence.”
Tips for taking your dog in the cabin with you
While dogs aren’t the only pets you might bring on-board with you, they’re the most common and a lot more likely to kick up a fuss than a cat is. Here are some tips to have your dog feel more like the cabin mascot, rather than a crying baby but with claws.
Take your dog for a walk that day
The last thing you want is for your pooch to be overly energetic and hyperactive on the plane, take them for a big run around in the morning before the flight, so they’re more keen on a nap than ripping up their Spirit of Australia magazine.
Get them used to their container beforehand
Whatever you’ll be taking them on board in, make sure they’re well acquainted with it beforehand and maybe get them used to a nap or two in there. The last thing you want is for them to decide they hate the chosen cage or container and start whining about it.
Don’t feed them beforehand but give them plenty of water
Your pet defecating while on board is obviously not ideal so you don’t want to feed them beforehand, however, they will get a dry and dehydrated mouth if you don’t give them plenty of water. It’s much easier to put a towel or pad in their crate to be peed on than it is to cover the smell of a nasty surprise.
Bring them a comfort toy
If your dog has a favourite chew or soft toy, this is perfect to bring aboard to calm them down if they’re getting a bit antsy. You might even want to bring a couple of options if your pup is a little picky.
