Flight Nanny For Dogs: Explained
If you are purchasing a new puppy from a long-distance breeder, consider hiring a flight nanny to bring your dog to you. A Flight nanny is a simple solution when you don’t have time to fly and lack experience flying with animals. This option requires little work or worry from the customer because the flight nanny takes care of all the details, requiring only a fee and good communication.
What Is A Flight Nanny
A flight nanny is a professional who chaperones your pet as they are sent to your pet during air travel. They attend to your pet's needs and promise a safe delivery. The flight nanny’s responsibilities are to secure flight tickets, pick up your pet, tend to it throughout the journey, and deliver it to you. This delivery can occur either at the airport or a predetermined drop-off point.
What A Flight Nanny's Day Looks Like
Flight Nanny’s have a lot of work to do the day of the flight. Before the flight, the nanny will play with the pet, feed it, bring it to the bathroom, and keep it calm. During the flight, they will continue to care for your pet, preventing any accidents with the supplies they bring. If your pet is too large to ride in the cabin and must travel in the cargo hold, the nanny will not be able to attend to it during the flight. However, the nanny will be with your dog before and after the flight. A responsible flight nanny will keep you informed by updating you about flight changes or delays, and letting you know how your pet is doing. After the Flight, the nanny will tend to your pet's needs and either wait with your pet at the airport until you arrive or bring the pet to you.
Why Should I Use A Flight Nanny?
Using a flight nanny for your dogs ensures they will arrive on time without any effort on your part (except maybe booking the nanny). This service allows you to avoid taking time off work, changing your schedule, or navigating the airport with a dog. The flight nanny handles everything for you. Flying your pet is the most considerate option because it reduces travel time, which can be stressful for your pup. However, if you choose to travel by car, remember that your dog will require special care due to the length of the trip. With a flight nanny, it's only a matter of days or even hours before your pet comes to you!
Should I Trust A Flight Nanny With My Pet?
Trusting a stranger with your precious pup can be scary, so it's crucial that you know you can trust them. Check the reviews or references of the company or individual you're considering. Contact your flight nanny ahead of time to assess their communication skills and find out how many years of experience they have. It’s also wise to ask if they have experience with your particular breed of dog. We recommend smaller-scale companies for a more personal and dedicated service, as flight nannies from larger companies might be doing it just for the extra income.
Some puppies may not enjoy traveling and can sense their caretaker's anxiety. If you're uncomfortable flying with a pet or flying in general, hiring a flight nanny is a better option. Nannies often bring a familiar item, like a toy or blanket, to help curb the dog's anxiety.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Flight Nanny?
Hiring a flight nanny is not a cheap option, but it’s worth it. Many factors come into play when determining the overall price of hiring a flight nanny. It can cost anywhere from $450 to $2,000, depending on whether the flight is international or domestic. The biggest portion of the cost will be the flight ticket(s). Generally, the farther the distance, the more expensive it gets. Consider the extra cost that layovers, overnight stays, or pet pick-up/drop-off services might add. If your puppy is small enough, they may ride in the cabin; otherwise, they must ride in the cargo hold. Either way, there is a fee, though it is usually more expensive for the cargo hold. Some companies, like mydoodlepuppy, may just charge an initial flat rate with no variable extra costs regardless of rising ticket prices.
How Do I Book A Flight Nanny
First, pick your provider. Do some research and find a dependable flight nanny. Some flight nannies offer international services, and others do not, so pay attention to this if you are purchasing a puppy internationally. Depending on the company you use, there may be a website to book through. Otherwise, you have to call your provider and go over the details by phone. Be sure to call at least a week in advance to guarantee availability. Together, you and your flight nanny will figure out a flight plan that accommodates your schedule. After the price is paid in full or a deposit is made, the flight nanny will book the tickets and handle the rest. After that, all you have to do is stay near your phone!
A Few Things To Consider
Not all airlines allow pets, and some require medical documents such as vaccination records before they allow your dog to fly with them. The great thing about this is if you’re having a puppy shipped from a professional breeder, the pup will already be in top condition, having been to the vet for checkups and vaccinations. The breeder will provide the flight nanny with the records if they are necessary. Usually, flights within the United States don’t require paperwork but in order to fly pets internationally, medical documentation is required.
Ground transportation is most often cheaper than air. Traveling by road also allows frequent stops for your pet, and they don’t have to be confined to a carry throughout the trip. But traveling by ground also has its cons. The trip can take much longer, and overnight stays can add significantly to the cost.
Overall, using flight nanny services is a good idea if you want to do as little as possible, don’t prefer flying, or have a deadline and no spare time. Thankfully, the process of booking is not complex. If you want to save yourself time and energy and feel secure about your pet's safety, hiring a flight nanny for your dog(s) is a great option!
