Horses are majestic creatures that have been part of human life for centuries. They are used for transportation, competition, and even companionship. But in today’s world, they can sometimes need to travel far distances, and that often means they need to fly on airplanes. This article will explain how horses fly on airplanes and what needs to be done to make sure their journey is safe and comfortable.
Getting Ready for Takeoff
Before a horse can fly on an airplane, there are several steps that need to be taken. First, the horse must have a valid passport and all the necessary documents to enter the destination country. They must also have a health certificate from a veterinarian that states they are fit to travel. The horse should also have an approved horse shipping container that meets the airline’s requirements. The container should have plenty of air holes, be large enough for the horse to stand comfortably, and have absorbent bedding. The horse should have been walked and exercised in the days leading up to the flight to make sure they are comfortable traveling.
Choosing the Right Airline
Not all airlines are able to transport horses, so it is important to do research and find one that can. Some airlines even have special policies and procedures in place for horses. It is important to find out what their requirements are, and make sure the horse meets them before booking the flight.
On the Day of the Flight
On the day of the flight, the horse should be taken to the airport early to make sure they have enough time to go through all the necessary steps. This includes getting checked in with the airline and having the horse inspected by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will make sure the horse is fit to travel and issue a health certificate. The horse should be walked around the airport to help them adjust to their new environment.
Loading the Horse onto the Plane
Once all the necessary steps have been taken, the horse can be loaded onto the plane. The horse will be loaded into the cargo hold of the plane, either through a side door or a ramp. The horse should be loaded into their shipping container and secured with straps so they do not move during the flight. The shipping container should be placed on a pallet to make it easier to move.
In-Flight Care
Once the horse is on board, it is important to make sure they are comfortable during the flight. The horse should have plenty of water and be monitored for any signs of distress. The temperature in the cargo hold should also be monitored to make sure it is not too hot or cold.
Unloading the Horse
When the plane lands, the horse should be unloaded as soon as possible. This can be done by a staff member or a horse handler. The horse should be walked around the airport to help them adjust to their new surroundings.
Receiving the Horse
When the horse arrives at its destination, it is important to receive it as soon as possible. This can be done by a staff member or a horse handler. The horse should be inspected to make sure they are in good health and all necessary documents should be checked.
Post-Flight Care
Once the horse has arrived at its destination, it is important to make sure they are comfortable and taken care of. The horse should be given plenty of water and food, and their shipping container should be cleaned. The horse should also be walked and exercised to help them adjust to their new environment.
Conclusion
Flying a horse on an airplane can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and care, it can be done safely and comfortably. The horse must have all the necessary documents, a valid passport, and a shipping container that meets the airline’s requirements. It is also important to find an airline that is able to transport horses and make sure the horse is inspected by a veterinarian before the flight. On the day of the flight, the horse should be loaded into the cargo hold and monitored during the flight. When it arrives at its destination, the horse should be received and given plenty of care and attention.
Flying horses on airplanes can be a complicated process, but with the right preparation and care it can be done safely and comfortably. With the right steps, horses can be transported quickly and easily to their destination.