# How to Keep Calm Pets on Flights: Tips for Anxious Pets
Flying with your furry friend can be an exciting adventure — but it can also be a source of anxiety for both pets and their owners. Many pets experience stress during flights, especially long ones. The good news? With a little preparation and some helpful techniques, you can make flying a smoother, calmer experience for your anxious pet. This guide will help you learn how to keep calm pets on flights using expert tips, effective pet calming sprays, natural remedies, and actionable strategies to keep your pet relaxed and safe during air travel (Suggested internal link: traveling with pets tips).
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## Understanding Pet Anxiety During Long Flights
### Common Causes of Flight Anxiety in Pets
Pets are creatures of habit, often thriving in familiar environments. Flight anxiety is usually triggered by:
– **Unfamiliar surroundings:** Airports and planes are noisy and confusing.
– **Motion and turbulence:** The sensation of movement can unsettle animals.
– **Separation:** Being away from their home or owner’s usual care routines.
– **Restricted space:** Being confined in a carrier for extended periods.
– **Strange sounds:** Jet engines, announcements, and other unfamiliar noises.
Recognizing the root cause helps you address your pet’s concerns more effectively (Suggested internal link: understanding pet behavior).
### Signs Your Pet Is Stressed or Anxious
Pets can’t tell us how they feel, but their body language speaks volumes. Watch for these signs:
– **Excessive panting or drooling**
– **Whining, barking, or meowing**
– **Pacing or restlessness inside the carrier**
– **Trembling or shaking**
– **Aggression or attempts to escape**
– **Loss of appetite or vomiting**
Spotting these early will help you intervene promptly.
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## Preparing Your Pet Before the Flight
### Mental and Physical Preparation Steps
Preparation is key to reducing pet anxiety:
– **Start routines early:** Acclimate your pet to their carrier weeks ahead.
– **Exercise:** Take your dog for a long walk before the flight to burn excess energy.
– **Practice short trips:** Gradually expose your pet to car rides or time in the carrier.
– **Comfort association:** Use treats and toys around the carrier to create positive links.
### Choosing the Right Carrier and Comfort Items
A cozy carrier can make all the difference:
– **Size matters:** Ensure your pet can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
– **Soft bedding:** Add familiar blankets or your worn t-shirt for comforting scents.
– **Ventilation:** Good airflow keeps your pet comfortable and calm.
– **Safety features:** Secure closures and sturdy construction protect your pet.
### Selecting Pet-Friendly Airlines and Cabin Options
Not all airlines treat pets the same:
– **Check policies:** Review the airline’s pet travel requirements and restrictions.
– **In-cabin vs. cargo:** Whenever possible, opt to bring your pet onboard in the cabin.
– **Direct flights:** Choose nonstop routes to reduce travel stress.
– **Notify staff:** Let flight attendants know you’re traveling with a nervous pet (Suggested internal link: pet airline policies).
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## Using Pet Calming Sprays and Natural Remedies
### How Pet Calming Sprays Work
Pet calming sprays are effective tools to help calm pets on flights without sedation. These sprays often contain pheromones or herbal extracts designed to relax pets naturally:
– **Pheromone sprays:** Mimic natural comforting scents pets produce themselves.
– **Herbal sprays:** Ingredients like chamomile or valerian root promote calmness.
– **Non-drowsy:** Most sprays help reduce anxiety without making pets sleepy.
Apply these sprays onto bedding, carriers, or collars before travel to ease your pet’s flight anxiety.
### Recommended Calming Sprays and Their Ingredients
Popular and effective options include:
– **Adaptil (for dogs):** Contains dog appeasing pheromone.
– **Feliway (for cats):** Mimics feline facial pheromones.
– **Rescue Remedy:** A blend of flower essences for anxiety relief.
– **Herbal sprays:** Look for chamomile, lavender, or valerian in natural formulas.
Always test a small amount before the trip to check for allergic reactions.
### Other Natural Remedies and Supplements to Consider
Besides sprays, consider:
– **CBD oil:** Some owners report reduced anxiety with pet-safe CBD products.
– **Calming chews:** Contain ingredients like L-theanine, melatonin, or tryptophan.
– **Aromatherapy:** Use diffusers with pet-safe essential oils at home before flights.
– **Music therapy:** Calming music playlists can soothe pets during travel.
Always consult your vet before introducing supplements (Suggested internal link: pet health and wellness).
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## In-Flight Strategies to Keep Pets Calm
### Techniques to Soothe Your Pet During Boarding and Takeoff
The start of the journey can be the most stressful:
– **Stay calm:** Pets pick up on your mood, so remain relaxed.
– **Use familiar items:** Give your pet a favorite toy or blanket.
– **Speak softly:** Reassuring words help comfort anxious animals.
– **Apply calming sprays:** Spritz bedding and carrier interior before boarding.
– **Offer a light snack:** If allowed, a small treat can distract and ease anxiety.
### Managing Anxiety Mid-Flight: What You Can Do from Your Seat
During the flight, you can:
– **Gentle touch:** If allowed, stroke or pet your animal gently through the carrier mesh.
– **Maintain a quiet environment:** Lower noise levels and avoid sudden movements.
– **Hydration:** Offer water carefully if your pet drinks mid-flight.
– **Keep the carrier secure:** Place it securely under the seat to avoid jostling.
– **Monitor signs:** Stay alert for signs of distress and respond calmly.
### When to Seek Help or Professional Advice
If your pet shows signs of severe distress such as:
– Uncontrollable shaking
– Extreme agitation or aggression
– Vomiting or difficulty breathing
Contact the flight crew immediately. Before travel, consult your vet for advice tailored to your pet’s health and anxiety level.
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## After the Flight: Helping Your Pet Recover Calmly
### Signs of Post-Flight Stress and How to Address Them
Some pets remain unsettled after landing. Watch for:
– Disorientation or confusion
– Hiding or withdrawal
– Loss of appetite
– Excessive yawning or panting
To help your pet recover:
– Offer a quiet, comfortable space
– Maintain familiar routines
– Provide plenty of water and a light meal
– Engage in gentle play or exercise once settled
### Creating a Calm Environment at Your Destination
Set your new space up for success:
– Bring familiar bedding and toys
– Use calming sprays in their new area
– Limit exposure to new stimuli initially
– Establish consistent feeding and sleeping schedules
A calm environment eases adjustment after travel.
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## Bonus: Downloadable Pet Flight Preparation Checklist
### What’s Included in the Checklist
Our comprehensive checklist covers:
– Carrier dimensions and comfort items
– Pre-trip health and vaccination checks
– Packing food, water, treats, and medications
– Booking pet-friendly flights and seats
– Practice sessions with carrier and calming sprays
– Emergency contacts and veterinary info
### How to Use the Checklist for a Smooth Journey
– Review it weeks in advance to avoid last-minute stress
– Tick off each item as you prepare
– Share the checklist with anyone traveling with your pet
– Keep a copy accessible during your trip for quick reference
Download the checklist today and take the first step towards stress-free travel!
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## Frequently Asked Questions
**1. What are the safest pet calming sprays for flights?**
The safest sprays are pheromone-based, like Adaptil for dogs and Feliway for cats. These mimic natural calming scents and are non-toxic. Always follow label instructions and test prior to travel.
**2. How early should I start preparing my pet for a long flight?**
Start preparations at least 4-6 weeks before your flight. This allows time for carrier acclimation, practice trips, and calming spray testing.
**3. Can I medicate my pet for flight anxiety without a vet’s prescription?**
It’s best to consult your veterinarian before giving any medication. Over-the-counter remedies might not be safe or effective, and some prescription medications require professional supervision.
**4. What airline policies should I know when flying with anxious pets?**
Check carrier size restrictions, in-cabin versus cargo options, pet fees, vaccination requirements, and documentation needed. Some airlines may require advance notification or special accommodations for anxious pets.
**5. How do I know if my pet is too anxious to fly?**
If your pet exhibits extreme panic, aggression, physical illness, or health problems triggered by stress, discuss alternatives with a vet. Sometimes ground transportation or delay might be a better option.
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Flying with anxious pets doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, trusted pet calming sprays, and in-flight care, you can help your furry friend stay comfortable and safe in the skies. Ready to take off on your next adventure? Download our pet flight preparation checklist and start planning a calm, confident journey today! (Suggested internal link: pet travel safety tips)