It’s only natural to feel jet lagged after several hours of flight travel and crossing multiple time zones. Biologically, the human body follows a specific rhythmic pattern called the circadian rhythm; a 24 hour cycle dictated by light and darkness. Any disruption to this kind of rhythm, like crossing time zones, could affect one’s behavioral pattern. Interestingly enough, most living organisms, including animals, follow the circadian rhythm, which raises an important question: are pets immune to jet lag?

Well, the answer isn’t quite simple. Different animals show varied responses to the circadian cycle. For example, animals with a strong sense of smell are more likely to be active at night as opposed to animals who rely on sight. Moreover, pets like dogs and cats depend to a lesser degree on the circadian rhythm and therefore are able to easily recover from a jet lag. However, one problem they might find difficult to handle is the altitude of the flight. While humans tend to handle flight altitudes better, pets are left feeling disoriented and are likely to suffer malaise, sore muscles, dehydration, headaches and fatigue.

Move One’s pet transportation experts believe that these symptoms can be minimized and advise pet owners to take certain precautionary measures when flying their pets, like feeding the pet a small portion of food the night before it travels and no later than 12 hours prior to its flight. Pet owners are also advised against inducing any kind of sedatives.

For more information on how to travel with your pet in comfort or to find out more about our animal shipping services, please contact pet@moveoneinc.com.

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