Sedatives to Give Dogs Before a Flight

Traveling with dogs can be stressful but it doesn't have to be. If you will be traveling by air with your dog, a little advance planning can help make the flight go more smoothly for both of you. Many people feel that sedatives will make the trip more tolerable for their pet, however there may be some risks involved. There are some natural ways to relieve anxiety, although if you feel that sedatives are a necessity, there are some less risky options available.

  1. Sedatives Available for Air Travel

    • If you feel sedation is necessary for your dog there are a few options available. One of the mildest options is to administer over-the-counter Benadryl to your dog to make it drowsy. Check with your vet for dosage per pound. The diphenhydramine in the medicine works the same in animals as it does in humans and will make the dog less anxious. A popular tranquilizer for dogs is acepromazine. This medication requires a prescription and oversight from your veterinarian. Another option may be an herbal approach. Chamomile has a natural soothing effect and can be administered to dogs. Cooked oatmeal added to the dog's food can also relieve anxiety.

    Risks of Sedation

    • Many veterinarians recommend not giving a dog sedatives before a flight. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, deaths from excessive sedation are the main cause of death for pets during air travel. The main reason for concern is that the combination of high altitude and the sedatives effects can cause cardiac issues in your pet. There is also a risk of respiratory problems. The sedative also can have adverse effects on a dog's natural equilibrium. This may cause the dog to be bounced around in its crate because the sedative affects their natural bracing tendencies. Most importantly is that there is no one in the cargo hold with your dog, meaning any side effects from the sedative will go unnoticed.

    Preparing Your Dog for a Flight

    • Many airlines and veterinarians suggest conditioning your dog before the flight to avoid the need for sedatives. If you have enough time before your trip, you should get your pet accustomed to the crate they will be traveling in. Leave them in the crate for increasing amounts of time until they are comfortable being in the crate for the amount of time that the flight will take. Travelers should check with their airline to review the guidelines for crate sizes. To ensure your pet's comfort it is best to select a crate big enough for them to turn around in. A trip to the vet may also be in order to make sure your dog is in good physical condition and OK to fly.

    At the Airport

    • On the day of the flight, it is best to take your dog on a long walk before check-in. This will help to work off nervous energy and also gives the dog a chance to relieve itself before going into the kennel. It is best not to feed them before the flight to avoid gastric distress. Because it can be cold in the cargo hold, provide your dog with a blanket. Including a few bones in the kennel will be helpful as well since the chewing may help it "pop" its ears after takeoff. Don't forget to include your name, the pet's name and a phone number on the kennel as well as any other pertinent information.