50 People Captured The Most Adorable Plane Passengers Aboard (New Pics)

Though many of us wish that every flight would be full of adorable animals to keep us company, the reality is that this won’t be the case. There are very strict rules and regulations in place for anyone flying on planes, for the sake of everyone’s safety and comfort. 

That means that if you plan on flying anywhere with your pet, you ought to do some research beforehand about your country and airline’s rules, including fees and size and weight limits. In some cases, you’re allowed to bring your pet onboard the cabin (often, in an approved carrier bag). Elsewhere, your animal companion will have to travel in the cargo hold. Meanwhile, some exceptions might also be made if you have an emotional support animal or a service animal... or if you pay for a pet-friendly charter flight!

The PDSA is the UK’s largest veterinary charity, with 49 pet hospitals across the country. The organization provided 2.2 million vet treatments to over 430,000 pets in 2023. PDSA vet nurse Gemma told Bored Panda that out of all the modes of travel, flying is probably the hardest to prepare your pet for.

“We would only recommend taking your pets on flights if the journey is unavoidable. However, there are things owners can do to hopefully make a pet’s first flight a little easier. We’d recommend, if possible, owners try and make the very first flight a short one. This way you can see how your pet responds to being on a plane. If on a long-haul flight for the first time, there’s no exit, and being stuck on a plane for hours could be a stressful experience for pets," she shared with us.

Your first step should be to talk to your vet and ask them for advice. “This is especially important if you know they [your pet] can be anxious with travel, [so ask] for any recommendations that might help your pet during the journey. You will also need to consider your pet’s specific health needs. There may be some circumstances where your vet will advise against travel for your pet’s wellbeing,” Gemma said.

Vet nurse Gemma said, “If you are traveling by plane for a short holiday: if at all possible, we’d always recommend, for your pet’s health and well-being, leaving them at home with a loved one or a professional instead of bringing them with you. Or, choose a holiday destination you can drive to so you can enjoy it together instead!”

She continued: "In circumstances where your pet has to travel with you no matter what, such as you are relocating and the only mode of transport feasible is a plane, you want to make sure you have everything you need for your pet to hand. Avoid feeding your dog for a few hours before travel, as flying on a full stomach could be uncomfortable for them. They can have water up until the flight, and try to make sure they have the opportunity for a toilet break shortly before boarding."

According to the PDSA, if your dog is traveling in the cabin with you, you may want to pack a 'doggy bag' with everything they might need. “This includes an airline-approved pet carrier and bedding, a water bowl, [and a] supply of sealed snacks in case your pet gets hungry, but it’s important to keep in mind [that] what food products you can take will depend on where you are flying from and your destination,” PDSA vet nurse Gemma advised Bored Panda.