For many people, the thought of leaving a pet behind for business or vacation travel is unbearable. As a companion and confidante, a pet is very often as essential as a passport and luggage.
Private jets welcome passengers of all kinds and their pets. A private jet, or business jet as it is sometimes called, is a jet aircraft designed to transport small groups of people in luxury and can feature full-size beds, pianos, a fully stocked bar, and plenty of room for your pet to travel in comfort.
It is much more comfortable, convenient, and safe to fly with your pet on a private jet. That said, there are a few things you should think about before, during, and after the journey.
Is flying safe for my pet?
Pets come in all shapes and sizes, the question of whether or not flying is safe depends on what kind of pet is doing the flying. However, the vast majority of pets traveling on private jets will be the much-loved favorites – cats and dogs.
On a private jet, your cat or dog is not going to experience the same horrors as a pet flying in the cargo hold of a plane. They will not be exposed to the same loud noises, unusual sights, and difficult variations in air temperature and pressure.
Animals with ‘pushed-in’ faces such as pugs and bulldogs might find changes in pressure hard to bear and might even be painful, and pets with heart conditions can experience cardiac arrest in the air. So while flying by private jet is definitely the safest way for your pet to fly, it might be best to check with your vet before making the decision fly with them.
Does my pet need a passport?
Technically, your pet doesn’t have a nationality so they don’t need a passport in the traditional sense. However, very often your pet will need a ‘health passport’ and other important documentation.
Within the US, the USDA requires all pets to be in good health at the time of flying. If your flight is across state borders, pets are required to have a rabies immunization and a valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 30 days of travel.
When traveling internationally by private jet, it’s a good idea to check with the rules of the destination country. If you don’t have the right documentation, your pet might be quarantined for several weeks and this rarely a pleasant experience for your pet and should be avoided.
How should you prepare to fly with your pet?
Preparing your pet for flight by private jet is not very different from preparing yourself or your children. However, pets are more vulnerable and there are some things you need to consider.
Even though passengers are served the very best in-flight food when flying by private yet, your pet is unlikely to want to eat in the air. Make sure your pet eats about four hours before take-off, and give them a chance to relieve themselves before boarding.
Controlling your pet is important for their safety. Cats should be in a carrier that has been approved for air travel, and dogs should be on a leash both on the runway and to keep them safe if there is turbulence during the flight.
What does your pet need when you land?
When you land you’re likely to be focused on getting to your hotel to prepare for your meetings or get your vacation started. However, your pet will have had a very unusual experience and may need a bit of loving care and attention.
Your pet can’t tell you if they’re hungry, thirsty, or nauseous so it’s a good idea to offer your pet food and water as soon as possible in a quiet spot in the airport or as soon as possible after leaving. Offer them something a bit special, but not too rich or fatty, and don’t worry if they refuse.
The experience of flying by private jet is just about the best in-flight experience a person can have but it can still be stressful for your furry friend. Your pet relies on you for their safety and wellbeing, so when they’re stressed they may be more clingy than usual so make sure you make time for cuddles and routines like brushing them.
Should you fly with your pet?
You can take your pet on a private jet and they’re likely to have a safe and comfortable experience. If you and your pet are both going to be happier together than apart, then you absolutely should fly with your pet.