Are Dogs Allowed on a Plane?

July 1, 2022

“The greatest fear for a dog is that you will not come back when you go out the door without them.” How often have you seen this fear in your dog’s eyes? Each time you step out the door, right? A dog is an important and often the most pampered member of your family. It’s little wonder, then, that you wish you could spend all your time with them. When you plan a vacation or even a long drive, the first “person” you think about is your dog!

A long drive with your dog is the simplest of all journeys and most enjoyable. However, travelling with dogs in India, especially by plane, could seem difficult for many. Dog parents in India who haven’t experienced it might even wonder, are dogs allowed on planes in India?

Here is the answer to all your questions, plus all the essential information you might need for travelling with your pets on planes in India.

Are dogs allowed on planes in India?

Earlier, Air India and Spicejet were the only two domestic carriers that allowed pets. However, since June 2021, only Air India allows you to travel with pets. Besides this, IndiGo, AirAsia, and Vistara allow only service dogs onboard for passengers with special needs.

Air India has certain rules for travelling with your dog on their planes:

Dog parents in India need to inform Air India Reservations in advance about booking a seat for their pets.
Pets should have a valid rabies vaccine certificate to travel on Air India.
Dogs, cats, birds, guinea pigs, and other pets can be carried into the cabins.
Pets should be carried in kennels not larger than 18″ X 18″ X 12″ in size.
The carriage must be approved by the flight commander.
Larger pets will have to travel in the cargo hold.
Only two pets are allowed, and the pet owners will be allotted a seat in the last row of the cabin.
The carriage must be labelled with the pet’s name.
Pets must be muzzled, leashed, and cannot occupy a passenger’s seat.
Pet owners will be charged the normal excess baggage for carrying pets. The charges are calculated using the pet’s weight, their containers, and food supplies.
Only trained service dogs are allowed to travel for free with people with special needs who depend on their dogs. These dogs should also be muzzled, leashed, and have all the necessary health documents.

Here are some more important points to remember while travelling with your pets on planes in India:

Pet owner assumes the risks of injury, sickness, or death of the pet.
Pet owners need to submit an indemnifying declaration to the airlines.
Pet owners must ensure that their pets meet the quarantine requirements.
The owner will have to pay for the quarantine of their pets at the destination if necessary.

Security rules for travelling with pets in India:

Pet carriages should be well-ventilated, leak-proof, and escape-proof.
The pets should be able to sit/stand/lie down comfortably in the carriages.
The carriage should be made from a strong material.
Pets should not be pregnant.
They must have a health certificate verified by a qualified veterinarian.

Preparing your dog for air travel

Prepare for your dog for plane travel well in advance for a stress-free journey for both you and your beloved pet.

1) Visit the vet:

Take your dog to the vet for a complete health check and get a health certificate. Ask your vet how to care for your dog to ensure their safe travel. Take two copies of the health certificate: one to be attached to your dog’s carrier and the other to be added to your boarding documents.

2) Buy a dog carrier:

Follow the guidelines mentioned by Air India when buying a carrier for your dog. Buy one made of a non-chewable, strong material that is of the ideal size for your dog. Make sure it is roomy and comfortable enough for them to sit, sleep, and stand. Label it clearly with your contact information and your dog’s name. You will also need a good-quality muzzle and leash.

Remember to place your dog’s favourite toy or blanket inside the carrier to let them feel safe. Place towels on the carrier floor to make it cosy and safe for your dog.

3) Prepare your dog for their travel:

If your dog isn’t used to being in a carrier, then you need to prepare them well in advance to avoid any discomfort. Initially, leave the door of the carrier open, and place their toys and bedding inside. Give your dog time to explore the carrier without forcing them inside.

Once they grow comfortable seeing the carrier, they will soon step inside to explore it from within. Praise them and give them their favourite chew toys or treats when they enter the carriage or sit inside. Let them get used to sitting inside with the door closed for 10-15 minutes.

On the day of the travel

1) Feeding the dog:

Avoid feeding your dog five hours before their plane travel. Instead, fasten a bowl of food and a bowl of water inside the carrier to eat during the flight.

2) Reach the airport early:

Reach the airport an hour early to remind the airline employees about your dog’s travel. Ask to see the cargo area if your dog isn’t travelling in the cabin with you.

3) Before the flight:

Keep your dog active before the flight. This will help burn off the excess energy and anxiety. Avoid giving sedatives unless advised by the vet. Sedatives reduce body temperature, respiration, and heart rate, and cause confusion and panic.

Conclusion

Travelling with dogs in India can be a peaceful experience. Once they get used to it, you and your best friend can take as many vacations as you please. All you need is to follow the rules and take care of your beloved pet’s in-flight needs to ensure their comfort and safety. Have a happy journey!