Flying with your dog this Summer? Experts reveal how to make air travel safer and less stressful

As thousands of British families prepare to relocate overseas, embark on long-haul adventures or take extended breaks abroad this summer, many pet owners face a daunting question: how can you ensure your dog or cat enjoys a safe and comfortable journey by air?

For many, the prospect of a beloved pet travelling on an aircraft sparks anxiety. Images of pets being separated from their owners and travelling in the cargo hold can be unsettling. Yet veterinary experts say that modern pet air travel is far safer and more carefully regulated than many people realise.

PetAir, a UK pet relocation company founded by veterinary professionals, has helped relocate more than 33,000 pets to over 300 destinations worldwide. The company says one of the most common misconceptions is that travelling in the aircraft cabin is always the best option.

"One of the first questions we are asked is whether a pet should travel in the cabin or the hold," said Joanna Dibben of PetAir.

"Many owners naturally assume that being close to their pet is always the better choice. However, modern aircraft holds used for live animal transport are pressurised, temperature-controlled and specifically designed for animal welfare. For many pets, particularly those travelling internationally, the hold can actually be the calmer and more comfortable environment.

"As a company founded by vets, animal welfare is at the heart of everything we do. Every journey is individually planned to ensure pets travel as safely and comfortably as possible."

While some airlines permit small pets to travel in the cabin on selected routes, most dogs and cats entering or leaving the UK must travel as manifest cargo under DEFRA regulations.

For larger dogs, older pets, or flat-faced breeds such as pugs, bulldogs and Persian cats, specialist private jet services may sometimes be the most suitable option, although these come at a significantly higher cost.

For many pets, however, travelling in a secure IATA-approved crate within the aircraft hold remains the most practical solution.

According to PetAir, the hold offers several advantages:

• A quieter, lower-stimulation environment

• More room to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably

• Consistent temperature and air pressure

• Professional handling by trained airline staff

• Full regulatory oversight and welfare protocols

Why preparation matters

Experts agree that the weeks before departure are often more important than the flight itself. Owners are advised to introduce pets to their travel crate well in advance, allowing them to build positive associations with the space. A crate should become a familiar safe haven rather than something introduced at the last minute.

Dogs should also be exercised before travelling and all pets should have access to water and remain well hydrated. A familiar-smelling blanket or bedding can also provide reassurance during the journey and one thing owners should avoid, is sedation.

Veterinary organisations including the British Veterinary Association advise against routine sedation before flying because it can interfere with breathing, balance and temperature regulation at altitude.

But there are things to help…

To further support travelling animals, PetAir has partnered with Kings Award-winning Pet Remedy, whose calming products are already used in PetAir travel crates.

The new partnership means customers will receive exclusive discounts, promotional product packs for face to face customers and access to a complimentary behavioural consultation to help prepare pets for their journey.

Andrew Hale, emotional wellbeing expert at Pet Remedy, said many pets cope better with travel when their emotional needs are properly considered.

"Travel can be a significant change in routine for both dogs and cats, and any period of uncertainty can affect how safe they feel," he said.

"Rather than trying to suppress behaviour, our focus should always be on helping animals feel secure and emotionally supported. Pet Remedy works with the brain's natural calming pathways and can help create a greater sense of safety for mammals during potentially stressful situations, including travel.

"What is particularly encouraging about this partnership is that it combines practical travel expertise with emotional wellbeing support. By helping owners prepare in advance and understand their pet's individual needs, we can make journeys much more comfortable for everyone involved."

Top tips for travelling pets this summer

• Start crate training early

• Allow your pet plenty of time to become comfortable with their travel crate before departure.

• Keep routines consistent

• Maintain normal exercise and sleeping patterns as much as possible before travel.

• Avoid last-minute feeding

• Many experts recommend avoiding large meals four to six hours before departure unless otherwise advised by your vet.

• Pack familiar scents

• A blanket or bedding carrying familiar smells can help provide reassurance.

• Check paperwork carefully

• Ensure vaccinations, microchip details, health certificates and import documentation are completed correctly.

• Choose expert support

• Professional pet travel companies can help manage airline requirements, customs procedures and welfare planning.