Flying with Yorkies - YorkieTalk.com Forums

sammiz · 10-05-2007, 07:44 PM

Hello All,

I am going on a trip to visit my family in New Jersey for Christmas. My son in law is doing this as a surprise for my daughter. However, I told him that I absolutely MUST bring my baby Sassy (four pounds) with me. I just cannot go without her....So here is my question:

I have never flown with an animal, although Sassy isn't really one of those.

LOL But I couldn't bear for her to be in cargo or wherever it is they place them. I have to have her with me and am wondering what kind of hoops I am gonna have to jump through to carry her on with me.

Anyone have experience in this area? I appreciate all the help I can get. I want to be prepared when we go.

Thanks bunches!

TootiesMom · 10-05-2007, 07:57 PM

Its pretty easy really, you simply have to "declare" that you will be bringing a dog onboard with you, there is charge but make your reservation soon, the airlines limit the total number of pets allowed in the cabin. Check with your airline for the correct size carrier and make sure you are within that size...
I flew Delta and they were VERY nice to me and my baby....
good Luck!
d

alaskayorkie · 10-05-2007, 07:58 PM

Many or most airlines allow small dogs to ride under the seat in front of you, but they also have a rule that there can only be one or two dogs per flight, so book early.

The carrier must meet airline standards as a carry-on, and it counts as your carry-on piece of luggage. The airlines I've flown typically charge about $80 per direction.

Oh, and unless you run into an especially lenient flight attendant, you will be expected to keep the dog under the seat in front of you and not in the carrier on your lap or out of the carrier. Sometimes, we carry a blanket an try to sneak them on our laps.

sammiz · 10-05-2007, 08:11 PM

UNDER the seat only? This means I can't take her out and hold her? Sob, whine, cry.....

I don't know if I can leave her under the seat that long!! It is many hours to NJ from CA since I usually have to change planes at least once. I don't suppose begging and pleading would do much good either, huh?

Now I am getting stressed. She's my BABY!!

Tootie's mom....did you take your sweetie out or did it have to stay under the seat?????

sammiz · 10-05-2007, 09:15 PM

Well...

Maybe I could just shave her, buy an airline approved car seat and buy her a ticket. She would make an ugly baby but who's gonna tell you your baby is ugly and looks like a dog?

ladyj · 10-06-2007, 03:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sammiz

Hello All,

I am going on a trip to visit my family in New Jersey for Christmas. My son in law is doing this as a surprise for my daughter. However, I told him that I absolutely MUST bring my baby Sassy (four pounds) with me. I just cannot go without her....So here is my question:

I have never flown with an animal, although Sassy isn't really one of those.

LOL But I couldn't bear for her to be in cargo or wherever it is they place them. I have to have her with me and am wondering what kind of hoops I am gonna have to jump through to carry her on with me.

Anyone have experience in this area? I appreciate all the help I can get. I want to be prepared when we go.

Thanks bunches!

I have flown with my 13-pound Bichon, Lacy, many times. I always fly Delta and have had good experiences. A time or two, a stewardess has suggested that I let Lacy lay on my lap and cover her with a blanket, but most of the time, the dog is expected to stay in the carrier under the seat. Check with the airline to be sure what their regulations are. Also make reservations early and confirm a couple of days before you fly, making sure the reservations include the dog. A health certificate is required, issued by your vet within 10 days prior to the flight. I have a Sherpa bag with wheels and it is easy to get through airports with it. One more piece of advice: Wear something pretty. You will get LOTS of attention with a cute little dog in tow!

ladyj · 10-06-2007, 03:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sammiz

Hello All,

I am going on a trip to visit my family in New Jersey for Christmas. My son in law is doing this as a surprise for my daughter. However, I told him that I absolutely MUST bring my baby Sassy (four pounds) with me. I just cannot go without her....So here is my question:

I have never flown with an animal, although Sassy isn't really one of those.

LOL But I couldn't bear for her to be in cargo or wherever it is they place them. I have to have her with me and am wondering what kind of hoops I am gonna have to jump through to carry her on with me.

Anyone have experience in this area? I appreciate all the help I can get. I want to be prepared when we go.

Thanks bunches!

Forgot to mention one thing. Make SURE that any plane you will be flying on is big enough to allow the dog inside the plane under the seat in front of you. Some small planes don't have room under the seats for a dog carrier and they want you to put the dog in the nose of the plane. Just make sure all of the planes you will be flying on are big enough. Delta doesn't use any planes that are too small for the carrier under the seats. There's all jets. One more reason I always fly Delta!

alaskayorkie · 10-06-2007, 03:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sammiz

Well...

Maybe I could just shave her, buy an airline approved car seat and buy her a ticket. She would make an ugly baby but who's gonna tell you your baby is ugly and looks like a dog?

I like the way you think!

Relax. It's doable. At best, you can sneak her on your lap. At worst, she has to be semi-uncomfortable for 5-6 hours. Plus, you can always sneak her into the restroom.

Flying isn't fun, but it's better than leaving them at home.

shelschrader · 10-06-2007, 04:47 AM

I am going through this very delima right now too. I made my reservation with Delta to allow Marucs to fly with me in two weeks. I bought a new carrier to make sure that it fit the specifications. Now my husband is saying that Marcus is too little (ilb 11oz) to travel and he will have to stay home with him. I am heartbroken.

I can't imagine going anywhere without my him. Since Brusier is much larger, I think 12lbs is too big to fly. Since we brought Marcus home 6 weeks ago, he goes everywhere with me. He goes out shopping, to work with me, we spend just about 24/7 together. I know that my husband can take care of Brusier while I am gone, I just don't think he will take care of Marcus like I do. We have been fighting about it for a few days and he says that his decision is final...we'll see about that. Sorry, I didn't mean to get off subject, just needed to get that off my chest. When I called Delta yesterday to confirm that I was traveling with my dog, I asked if there was anything that I would need to bring with me, and other than the carrier they said no. I had expected that I would have to bring current health records, but they said not. The only other regulation is that they have to be atleast 8 weeks old. If you are concern about your baby being upset during that long flight, you might want to consult your vet. Some suggest a light sedation to calm down your baby. I don't like that idea very much, but I know many people have had suscess with it-especially on longer flights. Hope this helps and you both have a great trip!

___________________________________
Shel Brusier Ballard-Schrader

and Marcus Aurelius

Lovin' Gracie · 10-06-2007, 05:33 AM

Don't worry--I have taken Gracie to/from DC to California a couple of times. IF possible, try and get a non-stop flight. There are plenty of non-stop flights between SF/LA and either Newark/Philly, depending on where in NJ you're going. I usually go jetBlue non-stop and it's quite easy. The Sherpa dog carriers will fit under almost all airline seats. jetBlue seats are lower than most and even the small Sherpa fits untder there. The vibration/rhythm of the plane's motion puts Gracie right to sleep and she usually sleeps all the way through. If you're concerned about the dog being anxious or excited during the long flight (about 4 hrs. coming east), my vet has said I can give Gracie a small bit of children's benadryl (I don't recall the exact dose--1 or 2 ml? so call your vet) to take the edge off and make her a bit drowsy. She hasn't needed it, though.

Good luck--it'll be fine.

berrybo · 10-06-2007, 05:45 AM

How can i train my baby.

i've tried everything. He was born March of 2006. and he still will not go to the bathroom on time or at the right place (outside). Then he looks at me with those cute eyes and turn his head and I melt

. Cocoa gives me no choice but to have him neutered. Which I don't know if its the right thing to do. but so many has told me that once the surgery is done it will him Cocoa. Then I will be able to train him. Have any suggestion. Now when he doesnt want to do something, he runs under the bed and grolws at us. like if he wants to bite. Help!!!!!

Any advice or suggestions?

berrybo · 10-06-2007, 05:48 AM

How can i train my baby.

i've tried everything. He was born March of 2006. and he still will not go to the bathroom on time or at the right place (outside). Then he looks at me with those cute eyes and turn his head and I melt

. Cocoa gives me no choice but to have him neutered. Which I don't know if its the right thing to do. Yet so many has told me that once the surgery is done it will help Cocoa. Then I will be able to train him. Have any suggestion

. Furthermore when he doesnt want to do something, he runs under the bed and growls at us. like if he wants to bite. Help!!!!!

Any advice or suggestions?

Love Berrybo and Prince CoCoa Da 1st.

kathy785 · 10-06-2007, 05:49 AM

I have flown with United and Express Jet. I was able to take my dog out of the carrier on Ex. Jet and hold her. On the other flights the dogs went to sleep and did not seem to even notice anything new.
Make sure you get your dog use to the carrier you are going to be using. Put him/her into it for a few minutes each day and for longer periods of time each day. I made mine stay in their carrier for an hour while I was right there, but on the computer. I figured they would have to be in there for much longer on the flight (KS to CA) Also I have said this before, look for the family restrooms in the airport, especially if you have connecting flights. It is one large room with a toilet and sink. I lock myself and the dogs in and then let them out with a pee pad on the floor and a bowl of water. I do what I have to do and let them do what they have to do and then pack everything up again. Using the family bathroom makes sure there is no way the dogs will get away from you, but have a chance to stretch their legs and go potty.

tickets for the dogs on United were $85 and on Express Jet $50.
Call and make the dog's reservation while you have your reservation up on the computer. I also even call before I make mine that there is still room for the dogs on the flights I want. (I usually do the cheapest ticket for me I can find. They are not refundable, so I don't want my dog stranded because he was not book or something preventable)

Sookie · 10-06-2007, 06:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kathy785

I have flown with United and Express Jet. I was able to take my dog out of the carrier on Ex. Jet and hold her. On the other flights the dogs went to sleep and did not seem to even notice anything new.
Make sure you get your dog use to the carrier you are going to be using. Put him/her into it for a few minutes each day and for longer periods of time each day. I made mine stay in their carrier for an hour while I was right there, but on the computer. I figured they would have to be in there for much longer on the flight (KS to CA) Also I have said this before, look for the family restrooms in the airport, especially if you have connecting flights. It is one large room with a toilet and sink. I lock myself and the dogs in and then let them out with a pee pad on the floor and a bowl of water. I do what I have to do and let them do what they have to do and then pack everything up again. Using the family bathroom makes sure there is no way the dogs will get away from you, but have a chance to stretch their legs and go potty.

tickets for the dogs on United were $85 and on Express Jet $50.
Call and make the dog's reservation while you have your reservation up on the computer. I also even call before I make mine that there is still room for the dogs on the flights I want. (I usually do the cheapest ticket for me I can find. They are not refundable, so I don't want my dog stranded because he was not book or something preventable)

I agree with what you said. I've flown 3 times with Kalina and she's only 6 months old - so she is a seasoned traveler. LOL

On the last flight they allowed 3 pets only. The total weight is 15 lbs including carrier. On one of my flights she sat on my lap the entire time. I asked my seat mate and those around if it was OK with them and they said yes. Otherwise, I wouldn't have taken her out.

Good luck. It's not as traumatic for the dog as you think - Kalina just curls up and goes to sleep for a few hours.

sammiz · 10-07-2007, 02:41 AM

For your input. It is much appreciated. I now have some idea of what to expect. Maybe.....I still might shave her and get that car seat, though.

10-05-2007, 07:44 PM	#1
sammiz No Longer a Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: PORTERVILLE, CA Posts: 1,574	Flying with Yorkies Hello All, I am going on a trip to visit my family in New Jersey for Christmas. My son in law is doing this as a surprise for my daughter. However, I told him that I absolutely MUST bring my baby Sassy (four pounds) with me. I just cannot go without her....So here is my question: I have never flown with an animal, although Sassy isn't really one of those. LOL But I couldn't bear for her to be in cargo or wherever it is they place them. I have to have her with me and am wondering what kind of hoops I am gonna have to jump through to carry her on with me. Anyone have experience in this area? I appreciate all the help I can get. I want to be prepared when we go. Thanks bunches!

10-05-2007, 07:57 PM	#2
TootiesMom and Hopeys Mom Too Donating Member Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Louisiana Posts: 4,109	Its pretty easy really, you simply have to "declare" that you will be bringing a dog onboard with you, there is charge but make your reservation soon, the airlines limit the total number of pets allowed in the cabin. Check with your airline for the correct size carrier and make sure you are within that size... I flew Delta and they were VERY nice to me and my baby.... good Luck! d __________________ Donna's little herd.... Tooties Dogster http://www.dogster.com/?271687 Hopeys Dogster http://www.dogster.com/?448723 and Tinker, TBone(RIP) Laci .. OH, and Me-Kitty(RIP)

10-05-2007, 07:58 PM	#3
alaskayorkie Banning Thread Dictator Donating Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Anchorage Posts: 30,843 Blog Entries: 57	Many or most airlines allow small dogs to ride under the seat in front of you, but they also have a rule that there can only be one or two dogs per flight, so book early. The carrier must meet airline standards as a carry-on, and it counts as your carry-on piece of luggage. The airlines I've flown typically charge about $80 per direction. Oh, and unless you run into an especially lenient flight attendant, you will be expected to keep the dog under the seat in front of you and not in the carrier on your lap or out of the carrier. Sometimes, we carry a blanket an try to sneak them on our laps. __________________ Mike ~ Doting Dad to Jillie, Harper, Molly, Cooper, Eddie (RIP), Lucy (RIP), Rusty (RIP) and Jack (RIP). Check us out on YouTube Last edited by alaskayorkie; 10-05-2007 at 08:00 PM.

10-05-2007, 08:11 PM	#4
sammiz No Longer a Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: PORTERVILLE, CA Posts: 1,574	UNDER the seat only? This means I can't take her out and hold her? Sob, whine, cry..... I don't know if I can leave her under the seat that long!! It is many hours to NJ from CA since I usually have to change planes at least once. I don't suppose begging and pleading would do much good either, huh? Now I am getting stressed. She's my BABY!! Tootie's mom....did you take your sweetie out or did it have to stay under the seat????? Last edited by sammiz; 10-05-2007 at 08:12 PM.

10-06-2007, 05:33 AM	#10
Lovin' Gracie Senior Yorkie Talker Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Northern Virginia Posts: 123	Flying with Yorkies Don't worry--I have taken Gracie to/from DC to California a couple of times. IF possible, try and get a non-stop flight. There are plenty of non-stop flights between SF/LA and either Newark/Philly, depending on where in NJ you're going. I usually go jetBlue non-stop and it's quite easy. The Sherpa dog carriers will fit under almost all airline seats. jetBlue seats are lower than most and even the small Sherpa fits untder there. The vibration/rhythm of the plane's motion puts Gracie right to sleep and she usually sleeps all the way through. If you're concerned about the dog being anxious or excited during the long flight (about 4 hrs. coming east), my vet has said I can give Gracie a small bit of children's benadryl (I don't recall the exact dose--1 or 2 ml? so call your vet) to take the edge off and make her a bit drowsy. She hasn't needed it, though. Good luck--it'll be fine.

10-05-2007, 09:15 PM	#5
sammiz No Longer a Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: PORTERVILLE, CA Posts: 1,574	Well... Maybe I could just shave her, buy an airline approved car seat and buy her a ticket. She would make an ugly baby but who's gonna tell you your baby is ugly and looks like a dog?

10-06-2007, 04:47 AM	#9
shelschrader Donating YT 500 Club Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Charlotte, NC Posts: 743	I am going through this very delima right now too. I made my reservation with Delta to allow Marucs to fly with me in two weeks. I bought a new carrier to make sure that it fit the specifications. Now my husband is saying that Marcus is too little (ilb 11oz) to travel and he will have to stay home with him. I am heartbroken. I can't imagine going anywhere without my him. Since Brusier is much larger, I think 12lbs is too big to fly. Since we brought Marcus home 6 weeks ago, he goes everywhere with me. He goes out shopping, to work with me, we spend just about 24/7 together. I know that my husband can take care of Brusier while I am gone, I just don't think he will take care of Marcus like I do. We have been fighting about it for a few days and he says that his decision is final...we'll see about that. Sorry, I didn't mean to get off subject, just needed to get that off my chest. When I called Delta yesterday to confirm that I was traveling with my dog, I asked if there was anything that I would need to bring with me, and other than the carrier they said no. I had expected that I would have to bring current health records, but they said not. The only other regulation is that they have to be atleast 8 weeks old. If you are concern about your baby being upset during that long flight, you might want to consult your vet. Some suggest a light sedation to calm down your baby. I don't like that idea very much, but I know many people have had suscess with it-especially on longer flights. Hope this helps and you both have a great trip! ___________________________________ Shel Brusier Ballard-Schrader and Marcus Aurelius

10-06-2007, 05:45 AM	#11
berrybo YorkieTalk Newbie! Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: long island Posts: 2	How can trained my baby How can i train my baby. i've tried everything. He was born March of 2006. and he still will not go to the bathroom on time or at the right place (outside). Then he looks at me with those cute eyes and turn his head and I melt . Cocoa gives me no choice but to have him neutered. Which I don't know if its the right thing to do. but so many has told me that once the surgery is done it will him Cocoa. Then I will be able to train him. Have any suggestion. Now when he doesnt want to do something, he runs under the bed and grolws at us. like if he wants to bite. Help!!!!! Any advice or suggestions? __________________

10-06-2007, 05:48 AM	#12
berrybo YorkieTalk Newbie! Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: long island Posts: 2	How can I trained my baby? How can i train my baby. i've tried everything. He was born March of 2006. and he still will not go to the bathroom on time or at the right place (outside). Then he looks at me with those cute eyes and turn his head and I melt . Cocoa gives me no choice but to have him neutered. Which I don't know if its the right thing to do. Yet so many has told me that once the surgery is done it will help Cocoa. Then I will be able to train him. Have any suggestion . Furthermore when he doesnt want to do something, he runs under the bed and growls at us. like if he wants to bite. Help!!!!! Any advice or suggestions? Love Berrybo and Prince CoCoa Da 1st. __________________

10-06-2007, 05:49 AM	#13
kathy785 BANNED! Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Kansas Posts: 607	I have flown with United and Express Jet. I was able to take my dog out of the carrier on Ex. Jet and hold her. On the other flights the dogs went to sleep and did not seem to even notice anything new. Make sure you get your dog use to the carrier you are going to be using. Put him/her into it for a few minutes each day and for longer periods of time each day. I made mine stay in their carrier for an hour while I was right there, but on the computer. I figured they would have to be in there for much longer on the flight (KS to CA) Also I have said this before, look for the family restrooms in the airport, especially if you have connecting flights. It is one large room with a toilet and sink. I lock myself and the dogs in and then let them out with a pee pad on the floor and a bowl of water. I do what I have to do and let them do what they have to do and then pack everything up again. Using the family bathroom makes sure there is no way the dogs will get away from you, but have a chance to stretch their legs and go potty. tickets for the dogs on United were $85 and on Express Jet $50. Call and make the dog's reservation while you have your reservation up on the computer. I also even call before I make mine that there is still room for the dogs on the flights I want. (I usually do the cheapest ticket for me I can find. They are not refundable, so I don't want my dog stranded because he was not book or something preventable)

10-07-2007, 02:41 AM	#15
sammiz No Longer a Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: PORTERVILLE, CA Posts: 1,574	Thank you all so much! For your input. It is much appreciated. I now have some idea of what to expect. Maybe.....I still might shave her and get that car seat, though.