Being unable to take one’s pet along is a major drawback of travel for pet owners. Fortunately, most commercial airlines have provisions to accommodate pets. Nonetheless, traveling with pets requires several considerations, which might increase distress among pet parents. One must also carry certain documents and other belongings while flying with pets. Being prepared with the following essentials before flying can help pet parents be more at ease before their flight:

1. Appropriate ID tags
Before boarding a flight with a pet, one should ensure it is microchipped. Moreover, a collar should be fastened around its neck, with currently relevant information printed on it. A leg band acts as a form of identification for birds onboard flights. Thus, appropriate ID tags should be fastened to pets before they board a flight.

2. Leash
Pets should be leashed while maneuvered through the airport check-in processes. Therefore, a leash is among the most essential belongings pet parents should carry while flying. The leash should only be removed when the animal is carried through a metal detector at the airport.

3. Vaccination records
Airlines only allow pets that have been vaccinated against various animal diseases, including rabies, canine parvovirus, distemper, and contagious hepatitis. Pet parents must carry vaccination certificates as evidence that their pet has been inoculated to prevent such diseases and is fit for travel.

4. Muzzle
Some airlines have a policy that requires animals to be muzzled while on board. Pet owners should always double-check their airline’s regulations to ensure their pet is muzzled if required. In any case, it is recommended to have a muzzle readily available during the flight if the pet displays signs of aggression or distress. Choosing a comfortable muzzle that allows the pet to breathe comfortably is advisable.

5. Carrier
Airlines typically require pets to be carried in hard-sided or soft-sided carriers during travel. For smaller pets, the carrier must be compact enough to fit under the seat in front of the passenger. Larger pets are usually not allowed in the cabin and should be flown in large carriers, containers, or kennels in the cargo compartment.

6. Copies of written prescriptions
If the pet is currently under any treatment for any ailment or health issue, pet parents should carry copies of written prescriptions by a veterinarian.

7. Litter box
Litter boxes are a must to ensure that a pet does not urinate or defecate outside while traveling. A portable litter tray and multiple small bags of litter packed in ziplock bags should be a part of one’s travel checklist when traveling with pets.

8. Pet food
Most airlines allow passengers with pets to carry dry and wet food in their carry-on luggage. However, during the regular security check process, one may be asked to remove the food items from one’s bag during check-in. Light, healthy pet food is advisable to prevent indigestion and discomfort while flying.

9. Blanket and toiletries
A warm, comfortable blanket that the pet is already familiar with is an excellent belonging to carry while flying with a pet. Toiletries like dog soaps and shampoos, combs, and towels are other essentials one should not forget.