I flew with my 3 lb poodle last year. I too bought the regulation carrier and was told I would have to leave the carrier under the seat in front of me and not to take the dog out of the bag.
I flew out at nite and no one was next to me so once we were in the air, the stewardess was passing out blankets so I took one and took my baby out of his bag and tucked him into the crook of my arm all the way, when we landed I slipped him back into his bag.
On the way back, it was mid day and the plane was crowded, the bag was under the seat and my baby Bosley was screaming (they really can scream) and the poor guy in front of me (Bos was under his seat) was very understanding, but I knew this was awful for him.
After we took off the woman sitting next to me asked me what kind of dog was in the bag, when I told her she said she wanted to see him, I told her I really wasn't suppose to take him out. She said , "I won't tell". So I slipped him out of the bag and she oohed and ahhed over him and showed her husband across the aisle, and then the couple behind us wanted to see him and the couple in front of us wanted to see him, I know the stewardess had to know what was going on but she never came by or said a word (whew!)
he was out and hidden under my sweater after everyone saw him until we landed and then I returned him to his bag till we were off the plane.
I know I was fortunate because I have heard they will take the carrier away from you and the dog will have to ride in the back of the plane somewhere away from you, that would have killed me, but I do know the poor guy in front of me had to be grateful, and everyone survived and was kept safe from my dangerous 3 lb. poodle. So all and all it was a good trip.
It is stressful to travel on planes with these little ones, I always have a bottle of water with me, my lil poodle can drink out of the cap if need be, can also carry a collapsible cup for bigger ones.
Sorry you had a rough time, hopefully if you go next time, it will be much easier for you and your baby.
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Lil Cheeky Charlie's mom  |