Travelling by air can be stressful not only for pet owners but especially for our furry companions. Unfamiliar sounds, movement, confinement, and separation from their owners can trigger anxiety. However, thoughtful preparation before and after travel can help your pet feel safer, calmer, and more relaxed. Here are some effective tips to ease pet stress during air travel.
Start Early: Familiarisation and Conditioning
Before your departure day, begin introducing travel-related items and experiences.
Carrier training:
Place the carrier in a familiar room with the door open and add treats, bedding, or clothing (safe) inside. Allow your pet to explore on their own and praise them when they enter. Gradually increase the time they spend in the carrier.
Simulated exposure:
Play recordings of airport sounds, PA announcements, or aircraft engines at low volume to help your pet become familiar with common air travel noises.
Short trial rides:
If possible, take short car rides with your pet inside the carrier so they can adjust to the feeling of movement while confined.
Mind the Timing: Feeding, Exercise, and Calm Time
Light meal:
Feed your pet a small meal a few hours before departure, not immediately before flying, to reduce the risk of motion-related discomfort.
Pre-flight exercise:
Give your pet a brisk walk or play session before heading to the airport to help burn off nervous energy.
Quiet rest:
After exercise, allow time for calm and rest so your pet enters travel feeling settled, not overly stimulated.
Creating a Comforting Environment in the Carrier
Familiar scents:
Place a blanket or soft clothing item with your scent inside the carrier to help your pet feel secure.
Soft bedding:
We, Tailwings Pet Travel provide comfortable, absorbent bedding for all pets. This bedding is designed to keep them clean, dry, and supported throughout the flight.
Ventilation and security:
Ensure the carrier meets airline standards, offers proper ventilation, and feels enclosed enough to provide a sense of safety. (Note: Toys or loose items are not allowed in crates for safety reasons.)
Stay Calm — Pets Pick Up on Your Emotions
Animals are highly sensitive to human emotions. If you are anxious, your pet may become stressed as well. Before leaving, take deep breaths, move calmly, and maintain a steady tone. During check-in and handover, stay composed and confident — this helps your pet feel that everything is under control.
Throughout the Journey: In-Flight and Layovers
Reassurance at drop-off and pick-up:
Although you cannot interact with your pet during the flight, speaking calmly and confidently before and after can help them feel secure.
Care and Comfort During the Journey:
Throughout the flight and any layovers, your pet’s comfort and wellbeing remain a top priority. Each crate is fitted with a super-absorbent pad and Vetbed to keep them dry and comfortable. Pets have access to water during the journey, and their collar and leads are securely attached to the outside of the crate for safety. A familiar towel or T-shirt carrying your scent is allowed inside to help them feel reassured. If your pet is on medication or requires a special diet, these details are managed by TailWings in advance. For pets that are a little nervous, a calming spray can be applied to their bedding before travel to help them feel more at ease.
After Arrival: Recovery and Reassurance
Calm reunion:
Greet your pet gently, speak softly, and offer praise and gentle strokes.
Short walk or stretch:
If conditions allow, take your pet for a short walk or give them space to stretch — especially important for dogs.
Hydration and light food:
Offer water slowly. Once they appear calm, provide a small meal.
Quiet resting space:
Prepare a comfortable, quiet area with familiar bedding and avoid overwhelming them with a new environment immediately.
Monitor behaviour:
Watch for signs of ongoing stress — heavy panting, pacing, hiding, or loss of appetite — and provide extra comfort. If symptoms persist, contact your vet.
Consider Natural Calming Aids (With Vet Approval)
Sedatives and tranquillizers are generally discouraged for air travel due to potential side effects. Instead, discuss gentler options with your vet, such as:
- Pheromone sprays or diffusers
- Vet-approved calming supplements
- Rescue Remedy or other Bach Flower Remedies
- Thundershirt or anxiety wraps (some pets respond well to gentle pressure)
Successful pet travel is all about preparation, sensitivity, and patience. The more time you invest in acclimating your pet to their carrier, simulating travel experiences, and managing your own calmness, the smoother the journey will be. By offering comfort, consistency, and reassurance throughout the process, you can help your pet arrive feeling safe, relaxed, and content.