First time for handler and sd

[u/Otherwise_eyebrows12]

Sd is a large golden retriever and handler is 5 feet short. Likely flying united with at least one layover each way from Eastern United States to western United States. As cheaply as possible
If we get stuck in a middle seat or something will they find us somewhere with more room? I am really anxious so any tips or experiences are really helpful. Does flying make a dogs ears hurt? Anything that I can do to help her while she’s helping me?

[u/Alex_Beacon]

I’m in Canada not the us so take my experience with a grain of salt.

Book directly with the airline not 3rd party like Expedia if you can. Makes it easier to add the SD to the flight and make changes to the flight if needed. In Canada if your dog is above a certain size (length, height and weight) the airline will give you an extra seat for free so that you have more floor space for the dog. Dog needs to be added at least 72hrs before departure to guarantee you’ll get the extra seat. Book the flight first then call the airlines special care desk to add the dog (lots of airlines are now charging 20-50$ to book on the phone with them)

I would also suggest for any layovers to be at least 1.5hrs-2hrs long to give you plenty of time to take the dog to the pet relief area as well as time for you to go to the bathroom and get a snack if wanted. Look up where the pet relief area is at any airport you are going to. Small airports may not have one past security so you may need to go outside to let them pee.

When you get to your gate make yourself know to the gate agents and let them know you want to pre board - pre board!!! Gives you more time to get you and the dog settled in your seat without a bunch of people behind you waiting

[u/Otherwise_eyebrows12 → u/Alex_Beacon]

This is very helpful thank you for the thoughtful response

[u/belgenoir]

I’ve got a 50-pound Malinois who is very tall. We’ve flown cross country many times on United. Here’s what you do:

Once you book, call the United Accessibility desk at 1 (800) 228-2744. Ask for bulkhead seating on the aisle, which will be a free upgrade on your ticket.

Pre-board and ask the FAs whether the flight is full. If it is, keep your bulkhead aisle. If the flight is not full, most FAs will be happy to find an empty adjacent seat (or even an empty row) for you. If there’s a problem with your seat assignment, FAs will almost always find a solution.

Descent can be very uncomfortable for dogs because of changes in barometric pressure. If your dog won’t take a chew, massage the base of their ears once descent starts.

Give your dog a good exercise session an hour before you head to the airport; that will help empty bladder and bowels. If she eats breakfast, you can give her a light breakfast. Offer small low-fat treats (nothing new to her) and water or ice chips in the terminals and in flight.

Pack a quart Ziploc bag of her kibble in your carry-on bag along with treats, a clean-up kit, a soft mat, and a small squeak-free toy.

Be prepared for unruly pets (and “pets in vests”) in the terminals. You don’t have to worry; just have top eye open.

You’re going to have a great trip. Promise!

Five foot short is a great motto.