When you book a private jet, not only do you get to bask in the total luxury of having the space all to yourself, but you won’t have to worry about not being able to bring your beloved pet, too. Commercial flights have stringent requirements surrounding bringing a pet, requiring you to keep it in a carrier and stowed under your seat when taking off or landing.
What’s worse is that if your pet exceeds the weight limit, they’ll be forced to fly in the cargo hold. Some airlines have gone as far as to place restrictions on pets in the cabin or ban emotional support animals. That’s why flying private is so great—you’ll deal with fewer constraints, which means your pet can roam outside of their carrier and be right by your side. You two can stretch out in your personal space while being treated like VIPs. Here’s what to know about traveling with your pet on a private jet:
What are the Legal Requirements?
There are some legal requirements your pet must fulfill before they’re allowed to board an aircraft flying within the United States. All pets must be at least eight weeks of age and weaned from their mother. They should have a current rabies vaccination and a clean bill of health. You must also present a health certificate issued by your vet within 30 days of flying. Luckily, you won’t have to show any other paperwork if your flight is domestic.
However, suppose you’re traveling out of the country. In that case, you’ll need to contact the appropriate government agency, like the US Department of Agriculture, to get an endorsement for your pet to fly. It’s also essential to bring your pet to your veterinarian to ensure all their health certificates are updated. Some pets, like birds, must be inspected by the USDA Fish and Wildlife Service when you return to the US. The animal may also have to undergo quarantine, depending on what kind it is.
Getting Their Travel Certificate
When you bring your pet to secure their travel certificate, you’ll need to talk to your vet about your pet’s general health. Ask your vet how they think your pet will react to flying, especially if it is your pet’s first time. Your veterinarian can walk you through the possible scenarios you’ll face and give you tips on keeping them as comfortable as possible during the flight. They will also guide you on how much food and water you’ll need to provide them with and the pros and cons of using medication on them.
Giving Them Medication
Many pets do not deal well with sudden changes in their environment. New situations, like flying, may give them intense anxiety that can ultimately disrupt your flight, which is why it is crucial to prioritize your pet’s wellbeing when they’re on the plane with you. Consider how they approach unexpected situations at home or when out for a walk. Do you think they’ll be comfortable in a cabin with fluctuating air pressure and some turbulence?
If you believe they may have difficulty flying, talk to your veterinarian about the appropriate medication to give them. Your veterinarian may likely discourage sedation and tranquilizers since it has undesirable side effects, like respiratory distress and heart problems. Instead, they may suggest other medications, like holistic treats, probiotics, and anti-anxiety meds that can help them relax while on the jet with you.
Conclusion
Traveling with your pet on a private jet is a much smoother process, as you won’t have to deal with the many restrictions that commercial airlines impose. Still, you’ll need to prepare just as much to ensure your pet’s complete comfort.
Velox Air Charter is a private air charter service that you can use to get to your destination safely and comfortably with your pet in tow. Request a charter flight estimate using our private jet charter cost calculator available directly on our website!
