On the day of your flight, you’re likely to be a little anxious about traveling with your pet. If you followed the guidelines from Part 1 of this article series, you’re well prepared and ready to go.

Here are the things you’ll want to do the day of your flight:

1. You’ll want to give your pet their sedative (if you chose this option). It’s easiest to give it to them mashed up in their canned food that morning. Watch your pet eat and make sure that they ingested the correct dosage.
2. Catch your pet and carefully place them in their carrier.

   The sedative generally takes a while to take effect. You’ll know when your pet is fully under the drug when the pupils of their eyes dilate very wide. They may look a little wild, but it’s just a side effect from the drug.

3. Double-check that you have all of their supplies for the trip.

   If your pet is boarding the plane and flying in the cabin with you, bring a light blanket to place over the carrier to dim the lights for them. Pack everything into your car and make your way to the airport. You’ll want to leave a little earlier than you normally would to ensure enough time to get your pet safely onboard.

4. Take your pet through airport security.

   All bags and animals must go through security. Your pet will need to go through the metal detector with you. Fortunately, the airport security guards have gotten very sophisticated at this process. Sometimes they’ll use a metal detection wand and check your pet’s carrier without them having to get out of it. If they need to do a more thorough check of your carrier, you can ask to go to another room where they can close the door and ensure that your pet will not escape while they scan the carrier.

5. Check in at the boarding desk.

   Once you’ve gotten through security, check in at your airline’s boarding desk. Let them know that you and your pet are there and show them the health verification certificate. At that point, they’ll make the final determination of whether your pet can travel that day.

   If your pet will be traveling in the cabin with you, the airline might let you board early.

6. Board the plane and tuck your pet under the seat in front of you.

   If the temperature in the cabin is cool, drape the light blanket you brought over your pet’s carrier. This will help simulate night time which might help them sleep on the plane.

   It might relax your pet to hear your voice every now and then. Check on them occasionally to make sure they’re alright.

7. Feed your pet once you’re at your destination.

   Your pet has been through a lot and will likely be hungry and tired after all of the day’s activities. Give your pet a safe place to rest and eat. Keep an eye on them for the first few days to make sure they’re recovering well from the stress of flying.

There’s a lot involved with flying with your pets. You can make it easier on yourself and your pet by planning ahead and knowing what to expect. Take the necessary precautions and make the preparations in advance so you and your dog or cat can enjoy the flight.

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