An Important Reminder for Travelers Flying With Pets

Each Friday, we feature a reader-submitted tip as our Travel Tip of the Day. This week’s tip comes from reader Diane S., who shares more on the subject of travel with pets:

“I discovered the hard way that depending on the airport, you may get no help with your dog in his crate upon arrival. Some airports (like Seattle) bring the dog and crate out on a flatbed dolly with an attendant who can cut the zip ties loose (airlines require the crate door to be zip-tied shut). But other airports (like Orange County) simply send the dog and crate down the ‘oversized luggage’ ramp, and it’s up to you to figure out how to cut the ties so you can attend to an anxious dog who may need a walk right away. Pack scissors at the top of your checked bag and grab that before your pup, or if you only have a carry-on, scope out an information desk or lost luggage office in the area where they may be willing to loan you the scissors before your pup shows up. Telling them that your pup will pee on their floor if he is not let out quickly usually will get them to help out.”

She then wrote in again, saying: “I told a friend about this problem and he had an even better solution…toenail clippers will cut the zip ties and they usually get through security without a problem.”

Thanks, Diane!

Related: Airline Policies for Flying With Pets

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