Flying with Your Westie: Our Near Disaster

✈️Flying with a Westie can be a challenging experience, especially if the dog is close to the maximum weight allowed on the plane.

🧳Choosing the right carrier bag for your Westie is crucial. Make sure it meets the airline's dimensions and allows the dog to sit, stand, and turn around comfortably.

💇‍♂️Keep your Westie's haircut in check, as a wild and untamed coat may make it harder for them to fit comfortably in the carrier bag.

📏While it's important to adhere to the airline's guidelines, a slightly larger carrier bag might not be a problem if it still fits under the seat in front of you.

🛅Be prepared for different opinions from airline staff. One person's decision can have a significant impact on whether your Westie can fly in the cabin or must go in cargo.

What should I consider when flying with my Westie?

—You should consider the Westie's weight, the dimensions of the carrier bag, and the dog's haircut. It's also important to be prepared for different opinions from airline staff.

Can my Westie fly in the cabin with me?

—Yes, as long as the dog meets the airline's weight limit and can comfortably sit, stand, and turn around in the carrier bag.

Should I get a larger carrier bag for my Westie?

—While it's important to adhere to the airline's dimensions, a slightly larger bag that still fits under the seat in front of you may not be a problem.

How can I ensure a smooth flying experience with my Westie?

—Ensure that all necessary paperwork and vaccinations are up to date, check the airline's guidelines, and make sure your Westie is comfortable in the carrier bag.

What if the airline staff doesn't allow my Westie to fly in the cabin?

—If you encounter an issue with one staff member, you can try talking to someone else or considering alternative flights or airlines.

00:12The video is about the author's experience flying with their Westie for the first time.

00:36The author provides tips and lessons learned from their experience that can help others flying with a Westie.

02:40The author shares their research and preparation process before the flight, including getting the necessary paperwork and choosing the right carrier bag.

04:39The author recounts their nearly disastrous experience at the boarding gate, where a flight attendant almost barred their Westie from boarding.

06:47The author explains how they avoided a significant issue by refusing to board the plane and highlights the importance of being assertive and knowledgeable about rules and regulations.

09:01The author shares lessons learned, including the importance of the Westie's haircut, the potential flexibility in carrier bag dimensions, and the unpredictability of airline staff.

10:50The author asks viewers to share their own experiences flying with Westies and invites questions and comments for future videos on the topic.