One common question is whether sedating your pet is a good idea to help ease anxiety during flights. While it might seem like sedation could calm your pet, many airlines, veterinarians, and experts advise against it due to the significant risks involved. In this article, we’ll explore why sedation is generally discouraged, what alternatives you can use to calm your pet, and what to consider if your pet needs medication during air travel.
Why Sedating Your Pet is Prohibited
The use of tranquilizers and sedatives to relax pets during air travel is strictly prohibited by most airlines and pet transport companies. These substances can impair your pet’s ability to respond to its environment, increasing the risk of heart and respiratory problems.
According to Dr. Patricia Olsen of the American Humane Association:
“An animal’s natural ability to balance and maintain equilibrium is altered under sedation. When the kennel is moved, a sedated animal may not be able to brace and prevent injury.”
This means that while sedation may calm a pet, it also prevents them from adjusting to movement within the crate, potentially leading to injury during turbulence or while the crate is being handled.
Tranquilizers can also increase the risk of heart and respiratory problems. During air travel, your pet may experience changes in cabin pressure or temperature that require quick adjustments. A sedated pet may not be able to cope with these changes as effectively as one that is fully conscious.
Safer Alternatives to Sedation
Consider these safer options to help reduce anxiety during air travel:
- Acclimate Your Pet to Their Crate: Getting your pet used to their travel carrier before the trip is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress. Allow your pet to spend time in the crate at home so they associate it with a safe, comfortable space.
- Use Familiar Scents: Pet anxiety can be eased by including something in the travel crate that smells like home. Our team recommends including an article of clothing, or a thin blanket or towel (no more than ½” thick) that carries the scent of home. This can make your pet feel more secure during the journey.
- Exercise Before the Flight: Ensure your pet gets plenty of exercise before the flight to tire them out. A physically tired pet is more likely to rest during travel, reducing anxiety naturally.
- Use Anxiety-Reducing Products: Your Pet Relocation Counselor may recommend calming sprays that release pheromones to help pets feel more at ease. You may also explore natural calming supplements, but always consult your veterinarian before giving your pet any new product.
What You Need to Know About Your Pet’s Medication
If your pet requires regular medication, it’s essential to discuss any potential risks with your veterinarian before air travel. Some medications can cause side effects when paired with the altitude and pressure changes experienced during flights.
In certain cases, WorldCare Pet can assist in attaching your pet’s medication to the top of their travel carrier and request airline personnel to administer it during an adequate layover. However, it’s important to note the following:
- Airlines and Customs officials have the final say in whether or not medication can be administered to your pet during the flight.
- WorldCare Pet is not responsible for lost or confiscated medication, so ensure all documentation and labeling are in order to avoid issues during transit.
It’s also worth noting that medications with sedative-like qualities can pose serious risks to your pet during flights. Because of this, many airlines will refuse to transport pets showing signs of sedation.
Why Airlines Refuse Sedated Pets
Airlines are increasingly strict about pet sedation because of the associated risks. Many airlines adhere to International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines, which discourage sedating pets during air travel due to the heightened risk of heart and respiratory issues, especially at high altitudes.
Most airlines will refuse to transport any pet that shows signs of sedation, as the risk of complications is simply too high. If you’re considering sedation for your pet, it’s important to understand that it may prevent them from being allowed on the flight at all.
Final Thoughts
While it can be tempting to sedate your pet to ease their nerves during air travel, the risks often outweigh the benefits. Sedation can impair your pet’s ability to cope with the changes and stresses of air travel, increasing the chance of injury or health complications. By using alternative methods such as crate acclimation, familiar scents, and calming products, you can help your pet travel more comfortably and safely.
If your pet needs medication, collaborate with your Veterinarian and Pet Relocation Counselor to ensure a safe trip. Additionally, be sure to verify your airline’s specific policies regarding pets and medication.
Safe travels to you and your pet!