Be Mindful Of Other People
Your dog may be adorable and sweet to you, but unfortunately other people may not feel the same way. Do not take it personally. Some people just don’t have the same level of affection and love for dogs as you do. Unless your dog is in a kennel or a carrier, always keep your dog on a leash from the moment you arrive at the airport to the time you leave. Not only will this help control your dogs curious nature, it will also help keeping them safe while navigating crowed airports.
Be Prepared
Always be prepared with dog amenities such as poop bags, dog purse (if your dog is small enough to fit into one), portable water bowl, treats, pet shampoo, toys, favorite blanket, spritz for longer trips.
Pick Up After Your Dog
I know this sounds like common sense, but a lot of people do not do it and it really gives dog owners a bad reputation. If you run out of poop bags, try to be creative to pick up after your pet. You can use a napkin or go into a store and ask for a bag or grab some paper towels from the bathroom. All of these will do the trick.
Barking Dog
If your dog is barking and being a nuisance, it will most likely be bothersome to others around you. Try to calm your dog down by petting them and soothing them. Familiarity with their personal space will help with this. Get them used to being comfortable and feeling safe in the bag or carrier. Try and expose them as much as possible and as often as possible to the bag or carrier when you are around home. If you must go out on an errand, put them in the carrier or bag so they get used to traveling in it. When it comes time to fly, they will be used to the environment and feel safer in their little space. This is where a little exposure and planning can come in handy and make traveling with your dog easier.
Pet Relief Areas
If you are outside the airport prior to going in to check-in or are on a layover and have to go outside for a bathroom break, look for pet relief areas that are away from other people and the front doors of the airport. Nobody likes to roll their suitcase through a puddle created by your loved one.
If you are in the airport, most major airports have pet relief areas available. Find the one nearest you so your pup can be comfortable on the flight.
Sometimes accidents happen. That is why they are accidents. If you are prepared you will be able to avoid any embarrassment and clean up the mess and move on in an efficient, quiet manner.
This is something that a lot of people do not necessarily think of. When checking into a hotel ask the front desk staff where their pet relief areas are. Most of the time the are situated away from the main entrances, and perhaps by the service areas. If your dog is smaller carry them to the areas to avoid your dog doing their business as soon as they get outside in a main area where people walk.
If you are fortunate enough to be staying at a resort that has access to a pet friendly beach, make sure to walk your dog away from the property prior to talking them to the beach.
Pet Carrier
If your pet is small enough to fit into a pet carrier and you do not have one, it would be a good idea to double check the available space and dimensions under the seats of the airline. Most airlines are all pretty much the same when it comes to space - there is never enough space! With that in mind, research what is available with your preferred airline and buy accordingly.