What You Should Know Before Booking Their Trip.
Travelling with your pet can be exciting, but if your dog or cat has a short or flat face, there are some extra considerations to keep in mind before they fly.
Breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers and Persian cats are known as brachycephalic, or snub-nosed, breeds.
Because of their facial structure, some breeds can have narrower airways and may face additional risks during air travel.
This is where BOAS certification comes in.
What is BOAS?
BOAS stands for Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome.
It refers to breathing problems caused by anatomical features that can make the airways narrower or obstructed.
However, being a brachycephalic breed does not automatically mean that a pet has BOAS.
Every pet is different, which is why individual assessment is so important when planning air travel.
Why does BOAS matter when flying?
Air travel can present additional challenges for snub-nosed pets.
Their ability to breathe comfortably can be affected by factors such as heat, humidity, stress and other conditions during their journey.
That doesn’t necessarily mean your pet cannot fly.
It means your pet’s health and ability to travel should be carefully considered before the journey begins.
The IPATA Brachycephalic Certification Program was created to help identify pets that may be at higher risk and, importantly, those that should not fly.
A Fit-to-Fly assessment is performed by an appropriately certified veterinarian and looks at respiratory function as well as other health factors.
What does BOAS certification mean for pet owners?
When you choose a pet relocation company with BOAS certification, you’re choosing a team with specialized training for the unique considerations involved in moving snub-nosed pets.
Worldwide Animal Travel holds BOAS Certification through IPATA’s Brachycephalic Certification Program.
We were also the first Canadian company with BOAS Certification for Snub-Nose Breeds.
This specialized knowledge helps our team plan carefully around your pet’s individual needs, including travel arrangements, crate requirements and coordination with veterinary professionals.
Most importantly, the goal isn’t simply to get your pet on a plane.
It’s to make sure their welfare comes first.
Can my snub-nosed pet fly on a plane?
There isn’t one answer for every Bulldog, Pug or other brachycephalic pet.
Your pet’s health, breed, individual condition, route, airline and travel conditions all need to be considered.
Some airlines also have their own restrictions for snub-nosed breeds.
That’s why it’s best to start planning early rather than waiting until you’re ready to book a flight.
Talk to one of our BOAS experts about your snub-nosed pet.
At Worldwide Animal Travel, we understand that your pet isn’t simply another passenger; they’re part of your family.
Our team can help you understand what’s involved, work through the requirements and plan the journey with your pet’s safety and wellbeing in mind.
Planning an international move with your snub-nosed pet?
Get in touch with Worldwide Animal Travel.
We’re here to help you at every step of your pet’s journey.
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