Let’s start with an ugly tuth: air travel can be ruff for our four-legged friends.
While we humans can pop a piece of gum or yawn to relieve ear pressure, our canine companions don’t have it so easy.
So, does flying hurt dog ears? Buckle up, pet parents, as I’m about to give you all the answers you need.
The Canine Ear: A Sensitive Instrument
Before we take off, let’s get acquainted with the canine ear.
Dogs have a different ear structure than humans, with ears that are more sensitive and can detect sounds at higher frequencies.
This superpower hearing is great for catching squirrels in the backyard, but it can make air travel a bit more challenging.
The American Kennel Club confirms that this heightened sensitivity can make dogs more prone to ear discomfort during flights.
It’s like they’re wearing noise-canceling headphones, but for pressure changes instead of sound.
The Pressure’s On: How Flying Affects Dog Ears
As any frequent flyer knows, air pressure changes during takeoff and landing can cause discomfort. For dogs, this sensation can be even more pronounced.
PetMD reports that as the plane ascends or descends, the air pressure changes can cause the eardrum to expand or contract, leading to pain or discomfort in dogs.
But wait, there’s more! Dogs, like humans, have a Eustachian tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat.
This tube helps regulate air pressure in the ear.
However, according to Veterinary Partner, dogs’ Eustachian tubes are smaller and more prone to blockage, which can exacerbate ear discomfort during flights.
It’s like trying to equalize pressure through a cocktail straw instead of a regular one – not an easy task!
Signs Your Dog is Feeling the Pressure
So, how can you tell if your furry friend is experiencing ear discomfort during a flight?
I suggest looking out for these signs:
- Scratching or shaking their ears
- Whining or vocalization
- Showing signs of anxiety or restlessness
- Tilting their head to one side
- Pawing at their ears
If your dog starts acting like they’re auditioning for a canine version of “Top Gun,” it might be a sign that they’re feeling the pressure.
Preparing for Takeoff: Tips for a Comfortable Flight
Now that we know flying can potentially hurt dog ears, what can we do about it?
Here are some tips to help your pup have a more comfortable flight:
Consult Your Vet
Before booking any flights, chat with your veterinarian. They can assess your dog’s overall health and provide specific recommendations for air travel.
Choose the Right Flight
If possible, opt for direct flights to minimize pressure changes. The fewer takeoffs and landings, the better for your dog’s ears
Create a Calm Environment
Bring along familiar items like a favorite toy or blanket to help your dog feel more at ease during the flight.
Consider Calming Aids
CNN Travel suggests using pheromone diffusers or other calming aids to help reduce anxiety during the flight. Just be sure to consult with your vet first.
I recommend tested and proven effective products like the Apis Flora calming collar or the ThunderEase calming anti anxiety pheromone collar for dogs by Adaptil, especially when considering the effective use of Adaptil Transport Spray for calming dogs
Exercise Before the Flight
A well-exercised dog is more likely to relax during the flight. Take your pup for a good walk or play session before heading to the airport.
Stay Hydrated
Offer your dog small amounts of water throughout the journey to help keep their ears moist and aid in pressure equalization.
Ear Protection
Some pet owners swear by ear protection devices like earmuffs designed for dogs. However, it’s always best to consult with your vet before using any ear protection devices, as not all dogs will tolerate them.
The Great Debate: To Fly or Not to Fly?
While flying can potentially cause discomfort for dogs, it doesn’t mean you should never travel with your furry friend.
Many dogs handle air travel just fine, especially with proper preparation and care.
However, if your dog has pre-existing ear conditions or is particularly anxious, you might want to consider alternative travel options.
- Read also: How to keep a dog calm during a flight
Remember, every dog is different.
Some may breeze through a flight like a seasoned traveler, while others might find it more challenging.
The key is to know your dog, prepare accordingly, and always prioritize their comfort and well-being.
Final Descent: Wrapping Up Our Journey
So, does flying hurt dog ears? The short answer is: it can.
The changes in air pressure during flights can cause discomfort for our canine companions, just as they can for us humans.
However, with proper preparation and care, many dogs can travel by air comfortably.
As responsible pet parents, it’s up to us to weigh the pros and cons of air travel for our furry friends.
If you do decide to take to the skies with your pup, remember to consult with your vet, prepare thoroughly, and keep a close eye on your dog throughout the journey.
Who knows? With the right approach, your dog might just become a frequent flyer, racking up those air miles faster than you can say “fetch.”
Just don’t expect them to share their complimentary peanuts with you!
