By Michael Martin, EAA 1047599, Toronto, ON
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is indeed a premier event for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. The 2023 edition set impressive records, and 2024 went to break many of them, including attendance numbers.
Highlights of AirVenture 2024
– Attendance: 686,000 attendees
– Aircraft: More than 10,000 aircraft
– Exhibits: 861 commercial exhibitors
It is exciting to join the aviation community at Oshkosh for an unforgettable week celebrating The Spirit of Aviation at the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration! #OSH24
Once you have decided to attend, your next big challenge is what to do with your beloved family pets? Do you place your dog in a kennel? Does your cat stay with family or friends while you are off enjoying your well-earned vacation with the aviation community?
If you are well equipped with a modern travel trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome, then bringing your pet on your escapades can be a good decision if you have a smart plan to protect them while attending EAA AirVenture.
It is a huge event, so you really need to think this idea through properly with your pet’s best interest in mind. Not every cat or dog will want to be at AirVenture. The pyrotechnic explosions and the roar of jets frighten some pets.
It can be overwhelming with so many people attending every year that finding a perfect pet friendly place to stay can be very difficult for some. For a lot of us lucky ones, the best option is to camp on the airport property.
In the Camp Scholler grounds at Wittman Airport, your pets are absolutely welcomed. Many campers bring their pets with them to Oshkosh, but only to the campgrounds; pets are not allowed in the convention grounds. Many breeds of dogs and cats are seen at EAA AirVenture every year, and since COVID-19, the number of pets attending has noticeably grown over the years. If you love your pet and consider them a member of your family, then bringing them with you may be the answer.
Most pets at AirVenture stay in the enhanced camping areas where you can run your camper’s air conditioning. It can get very hot in Oshkosh in July, so having a cool and protected environment is vital for pet safety. Many pets that attend are veteran campers, so they know the drill well.
It is very common to see one family member stay behind during the day and remain with the cat or dog while the rest of the family wanders the EAA grounds or watches the air show. Not all family members love to walk endlessly or spend the daytime searching the blazing sunshine for aerobatic heroics. It is common to see a happy pet parent passing the time of day sitting outside the camper under the shade of the awning reading a book while Fido enjoys the breeze at their side.
If you love pets of all kinds, then this is perhaps one of the largest gatherings to see them. You will meet dogs with names like Piper, Maverick, Radar, Baron, Raptor, Goose, Eclipse, Cub, Belle, Flyer, and Zero. They wear the latest dog high-fashions and bling with collars and neck handkerchiefs branded with aviation gear as well.
Cats have captivated humans for millennia, and their independent spirit and gracefulness often evoke a sense of freedom. What better way to celebrate this feline majesty than by bestowing upon them a name that reflects the exhilarating world of aviation? Cat names discovered at past AirVentures tied to aviation include Amelia, Orville, Wilbur, Lindbergh, Jet, Turbo, Hawk, Ace, Heathrow, Avion, Vector, Roger, Rutan, Bessie, Sully, and Hopper.
These names embody the spirit of aviation and the grace of your feline companion, making for a perfect match.
While pets are welcomed aviation companions, EAA has specific rules regarding their presence at the event. Here are the key points regarding pets:
Pets at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
If you are considering bringing your pet to future EAA AirVenture gatherings, it is important to be aware of the event’s policies and guidelines regarding pets to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone, especially for your pets. Here are the details you need to know:
General Policy
- No Pets Allowed: Pets are generally not allowed on the AirVenture grounds, which include exhibit areas, forums, workshops, and air shows. This rule helps ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees.
Exceptions
- Service Animals: Certified service animals that assist individuals with disabilities are allowed. Make sure your service animal is properly identified and trained to help avoid any issues.
Camping Areas
– Pets Permitted: Pets are allowed in designated camping areas.
– Leash Requirement: Pets must be on a leash at all times.
– Supervision: Pets must be supervised to prevent them from wandering off or causing any disturbances.
– Cleanup: Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets to maintain a clean and pleasant environment for all campers.
Recommendations
– Check Official Guidelines: Before bringing your pet, check the latest policies on the EAA AirVenture website or contact event organizers for the most up-to-date information.
– Prepare for Weather: Ensure your pet is comfortable with the outdoor conditions, as it can be hot and crowded.
– Consider Alternatives: If your pet might not enjoy the bustling environment, consider leaving them in the care of a trusted friend or boarding service during the event.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your experience at EAA AirVenture is enjoyable for both you and your pet.
Remember, your pet’s wellbeing is a top priority and responsibility. It can be a great experience if due consideration for your pet’s care is at the forefront of your AirVenture planning.
