Thanksgiving travels with a friend…

I just got back from visiting my parents in Springfield, MO for the Thanksgiving holiday.  Only this time, I wasn't traveling alone.  My dog Gates accompanied me on the plane and made for a very interesting trip...

Here's a few tips for flying with your pet.  

First and foremost, arrive at the airport early.  I was lucky I didn't have any trouble with checking in or getting through security, however I am glad I was early and didn't take any chances.  

Second, if you are going to sedate your dog, do so about an hour before your flight takes off.  I gave Gates 15mg of children's benadryl for our first flight but it began to wear off by the time we were actually in the air.  

Next, if you're a bit anxious/nervous when it comes to flying, I highly suggest talking to your doctor about getting authorized to travel with your pet as an emotional support companion.  I know it sounds crazy, but it allows you to bring your dog on the plane and avoid paying almost the price of an airline seat for your dog.  It also enables you to have your pet sit on your lap versus under the seat in the carrier.  In my case, Gates would NOT cooperate and put his head completely in the carrier.  Therefore, I believe it would be nearly impossible to fly with him if he wasn't allowed to sit on my lap.

Thats all the tips I have from our first flight which was only about an hour long.  For Christmas, we will be traveling from Chicago to Vegas, then Vegas to Miami, and finally Miami to Chicago.  I'm sure I will have more tips to add on to this blog post after the holidays.

Cheers!