Air Travel & Short Nosed Dogs FAQ

The facts are the facts right? Statistics and research show that short nosed breeds of dogs such as pugs, boston terriers, boxers, some mastiffs, pekingese, Shih tzus and bulldogs are more likely to die on airplanes than dogs with normal length muzzles. It's a sad reality but one that needs to be taken very seriously after a number of these breeds have died over the years whilst in flight. Of course its a very small percentage compared to the number of dogs flying around the world every year, but equally its so important to understand the breadth of issues that does make air travel a little more risky.

So why are these dog breeds more prove to respiratory problems?

Veterinarians have long known that short-nosed – the technical term is brachycephalic – dog breeds are more prone to respiratory problems under normal circumstances, and not just during air travel. You see, brachycephalic breeds are prone to respiratory problems because, although they have shortened noses, they still have to pack all of the same anatomical structures in there that dogs with longer snouts do. Just because their snouts are shorter doesn't mean they're missing any parts – they still have to pack nasal passages, sinuses, and a hard palate into that small area. It's sort of like moving from a house to an apartment and having to put the same amount of furniture in the apartment – it's all there, but it can be a bit cramped. The situation is worsened if the dog is overweight or obese.

How do their respiratory problems put them at higher risk during air travel?

Because of their anatomical abnormalities, short-nosed breeds seem to be more vulnerable to changes in air quality and temperature in the cargo hold of a plane. Although pets are transported in pressurised cargo holds and get much the same air that the passengers in the cabin do, the air circulation might not be ideal for your pet's individual needs (and remember, your dog is in a crate that could also be affecting ventilation). In addition, remember that there isn't anyone in that hold area that can monitor your pet and provide help if needed – so if there's a problem, you won't know until the plane has landed and your pet has been unloaded.

I own a short nosed pet? Should I never fly them anywhere?

I guess no-one is saying don't completely avoid air travel with your dog, even with a short-nosed breed. Knowing there are risks is half the battle, and with proper precautions, you can minimise the risks. If you know you're going to be traveling with your short nosed dog on an airplane, it really helps to prepare ahead of time.

What can I do to reduce the risks?

There are many things you can do, including: 

• Keep your dog healthy and at a normal weight. Dogs with underlying medical conditions may be more likely to have problems during transport. Elderly and obese dogs may also be at higher risk.

• Getting your dog used to its traveling crate can really reduce stress while traveling. Think about it...when you're on a plane, you understand what's going on while taking off and landing or even when there's turbulence, but dog pet doesn't know what's happening, and this can be stressful – and this can add to the stress your dog may already have if it's in a travel carrier for the first time. If your dog is used to the travel crate, it's more likely to be comfortable in the crate and travel with less stress. And remember, ALL travel crates, regardless of the breed of dog being transported, need to be secure so your dog can't escape.

• Although it can be comforting to your pet to have a familiar-smelling item in its travel crate, avoid thick blankets, fluffy towels or cloth items that your pet can wrap itself or bury its nose in – this could increase the risk of respiratory problems. A very thin blanket or flat newspaper is best for lining the crate.

• If your dog is small enough to fit in a pet carrier that fits under the airline seat, and many popular brachycephalic breeds are, you can ask the airline to allow you to bring your dog into the passenger area of the plane with you. Do this when you make your reservation, not when you show up at the airport for your flight. Some airlines will allow this, but you should always ask about the airline's policy about dogs in the passenger cabin.

• Pick your flight times carefully. When you and your pet are in the air, the pressure and temperature in the plane is controlled. However, you've probably noticed that the air seems a little stale and the temperature isn't as well regulated when you're sitting on the tarmac – that's because the plane's temperature and air pressure controls are often turned down until you're in the air. What does this mean? Well, it means that if you're on the tarmac for a long period of time, the temperature in the cargo hold may rise above (if it's hot) or fall below (if it's cold) the ideal temperatures for your pet.

• Your veterinarian can help you figure our what kind and size travel carrier you should get and how best to mark it with your personal information to make sure you and your pet are reunited after the flight, what kind of animal identification is appropriate (such as tags, microchip, etc.), and when you should feed your pet during travel.