Brachycephalic or short-nosed dog breeds are known for their cuteness. These ‘squishy faced’ dog breeds can easily melt hearts and have even found their way through to the heart and home of many pet lovers. As a brachycephalic dog owner, there are certain factors that you should keep in mind when taking are of these special and intelligent dog breed. Compiled here are some tips to consider when relocating brachycephalic dog breeds.
Brachycephalic or short snub dog breeds
Brachycephalic dog breeds are characterized by short nose structure and a skull deformity. Even though these dog breeds have a comparatively small skull, it still has to accommodate all the anatomical structures akin to that of dog breeds with long noses and big skulls. This is something that contributes to “Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome”. With such respiratory problems, it is eminent for you to take special care while relocating short snubbed dog breeds.
Be practical while booking flights
Flying can be an intimidating experience for Brachycephalic or any dog breed. This is why it is highly recommended to book a direct flight to keep the journey as short as possible. Additionally, foresee the flight timings and climatic conditions to ensure that you will be travelling with your pet at the most favorable climatic conditions. Literally transformed, you can restrain yourself from flying with your pet during afternoon on a hot and humid day. Usually, it is ideal to fly with your pet in the morning hours. Make it a point to not fly when during extreme climatic conditions.
Travel crate
It is always ideal to choose a bigger travel crate for your pooch while flying. Choose at least 36 inch long kennels so to ensure that your pet has plenty of space to stand and move around. Ensure that the crate is well ventilated and has an average clearance of 5 inches on all sides.
Choose the right airlines
Choose pet friendly airlines for your trip. Some of the pet friendly airlines are listed below:
- Delta
- Virgin America
- Air Canada
- Andria
- Aegean Airlines
- Air France
- Alaska Airlines
- Emirates
- Jet Blue
- Swiss
Each of pet friendly airlines has different policies and conditions with respect to transporting pets. For instance, some airlines might allow you to accommodate your pet with you in the aircraft cabin by tagging him as a carry-on luggage. As brachycephalic dog breeds are usually small in size, this is the ideal option to sign up for. Dig deep into the airline pet policies and rules regarding pet transportation to make a wise decision.
Crate training
If at all you cannot accommodate your pet in the aircraft cabin, ensure that you acclimatize him with the new crate, weeks before the trip. You can take him on short or long road journeys in car, while he is still in the crate. You can also encourage him to spend some time and play in the crate by giving him treats and toys to play inside the crate and also including a towel or mat in the crate to add to his comfort.
Get a vet’s appointment
Since brachycephalic dog breeds need special care, it is imperative that you run a complete checkup prior to the departure. Book an appointment with the local veterinary clinic to ensure that your pet is fit to travel. You can also get some expert travel opinions tailored for your pet from a professional veterinarian.
Feeding
Do not feed your pet a lot prior to the flight, ensure that he is moderately fed but offered with plenty of water. You can give him plenty of water and a grand meal, at least an hour after the flight.
Finding a pet friendly airline and a space for your pet within the flight cargo space can be a hectic task; therefore, it is essential that you start planning and booking a journey with your short snubbed ball of fun well before the date which you wish to travel.