Flying a small dog in the cabin from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. What to expect?

We are moving to Chiang Mai for work and plan to fly with our 5 kg dog. The airlines seem to have different rules on carrier size, weight and whether pets can go in the cabin at all. Has anyone done this recently? What paperwork did they ask for at check-in, and how did your dog cope?

3 answers

1. Most helpful for the asker

   PKPloy Kanchanawat· 2 months ago

   Check the airline's pet policy before booking, since some only allow pets in the hold and some limit the number of pets per flight. Call to reserve a spot. Bring the vaccination book and a health letter from your vet if requested, and arrive early. Also book the cabin spot early, ask whether your airline wants the carrier measured, and keep the dog calm with a familiar blanket, which makes everything smoother.

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2. YTYuki Tanaka· 2 months ago

   Our dog slept in the carrier. We practised at home for two weeks with treats inside. Frozen water in a tray, an absorbent pad, and no food for a few hours before. Ask your vet about whether to sedate. Mine said no. Arriving with plenty of time helped a lot, because we could let the dog toilet outside before check-in and walk around quietly beforehand.

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3. SMSofia Martinez· 2 months ago

   Weigh the dog with the carrier, since that's what they weigh at check-in. Also remember the cabin carrier must fit under the seat. Remember that pets must stay inside the carrier throughout the flight, including at the gate, so practise being relaxed for several hours inside it.

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