How does Pet Air Valet handle brachycephalic breeds like pugs?

Brachycephalic dogs (such as pugs, French bulldogs, and English bulldogs) can be more sensitive to heat, stress, and breathing effort.

Pet Air Valet flies dogs exclusively in the cabin, alongside their owners. This in-cabin setting supports calmer travel because your dog stays close to you in a stable cabin environment.

What we do

• We plan an in-cabin set-up that supports calm settling and minimal movement.
• You will have a call with one of our trainer-experts before travel day to review positioning and the cabin set-up for your dog.
• We share practical guidance for a calm flight day routine, including comfort and settling steps.

What you do

• Follow your vet's guidance. Your vet's advice remains essential for brachycephalic dogs.
• Arrange a fit-to-fly assessment with your vet if recommended, especially if your dog has any breathing history or has shown stress during travel.
• Keep your dog's records up to date and bring original documents on travel day where required.

Practical comfort tips for brachycephalic dogs

These steps often help dogs settle and breathe more comfortably:

• Use a well-fitted harness rather than a collar.
• Encourage calm, resting behaviour from boarding onwards.
• Keep handling gentle and avoid over-excitement before departure.
• Offer water in small sips, and avoid a large meal right before departure unless your vet advises otherwise.
• Bring a familiar mat or blanket so your dog can settle quickly at your feet.

Important note on veterinary care

We are not veterinary specialists and we do not provide medical advice. A qualified veterinarian must advise on health, breathing risk, and any medication decisions for travel.

If you would like extra support for a brachycephalic dog, contact Assistance and we will arrange the pre-travel trainer call and guide the next steps.