Travel by Airplane

dog in carrier
Air travel is of most concern to pet owners. You can minimize the chances of an unpleasant experience by following a few guidelines. Federal regulations require that pets be at least 8 weeks old and weaned at least 5 days before flying. Generally, a health certificate (which is not more than 10 days old) must be available before pets will be permitted to fly. A valid rabies vaccination certificate will also be required. Contact the airline well in advance for specific regulations and to secure your pet's reservation. Try to book a nonstop, midweek flight and avoid plane changes if possible. During warm weather periods choose early morning or late evening flights. In colder months, choose midday flights. Arrive at the airport early, exercise your pet, personally place it in its crate, and pick up the animal promptly upon arrival. Do not take leashed animals on escalators.

Transport crates, available from most airlines or pet shops, must:

  • Be large enough to allow the animal to stand (without touching the top of the cage), turn around, and lie down.
  • Be strong and free of interior protrusions, with handle or grips.
  • Have a leakproof bottom that is covered with plenty of absorbent material.
  • Be purchased in advance so the pet can become acclimated to the crate prior to travel.
  • Be appropriately and clearly labeled. Include your name, home address, home phone number, and destination contact information, as well as a designation of "Live Animals," with arrows indicating the crate's upright position.
  • Be ventilated on opposite sides, with exterior rims and knobs so that airflow is not impeded.

Ask your veterinarian for specific feeding instructions. For your pet's comfort, air travel on an almost empty stomach is usually recommended. The age and size of your pet, time and distance of the flight, and your pet's regular dietary routine will be considered when feeding recommendations are made.

Location

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Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-7:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-3:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-7:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

8:00 am-12:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

Read What Our Clients Say

  • "We'd like to give a very special thank Dr. Porter and Shawna. Our dog had four hip surgeries over the last 10 months. Her surgeries were at other specialty facilities but they have been there for us every step of the way including frantic phone calls from me. We went yesterday to get her staples out and because everything was so icy Dr. Porter and Shawna came out to my car to take them out. We LOVE these people!!!!"
    Robin S
  • "Love everyone at Marion Animal Hospital! Been going there for 30 years. They truly care about the animals and helped me tremendously with my many animals over the years."
    Angie F
  • "Stephanie is the greatest vet. The staff there are nice and caring. I will never take my dogs anywhere else."
    Kristie M
  • "The Staff are excellent, and Dr. Stephanie Porter went above and beyond to save my Daughters Cat. We are so grateful."
    Paul E.