| My two professions are so very different, but so | | | | from your vet. |
| very connected as well. Some may wonder how an | | | | Small pets can travel in the cabin with you provided |
| airline pilot got in the dog crate business, but the | | | | they are in a pet carrier that will fit under the seat in |
| answer is easy. Airplanes and dogs are two of my | | | | front of you. There are many great pet carriers on |
| favorite passions in life. For us animal lovers, the joy | | | | the market that will provide comfort for your small |
| of being able to take a pet on an airplane with is a | | | | pet. Large pets must travel in the cargo |
| blessing, but without proper planning, it can be | | | | compartment. You should not worry though. |
| disastrous. | | | | Experience from my first profession gives me the |
| Many people often wonder what is necessary to | | | | knowledge that the cargo compartment is safe and |
| take their pet on an airplane. It can be a very time | | | | kept at a comfortable temperature for your pet. The |
| consuming and difficult task without proper | | | | air carriers will not allow any pets back there if that |
| preparation. The number one thing a pet owner | | | | system is not functioning properly. Your dog crate or |
| should remember is that every airline has its own set | | | | other pet crate should be clearly marked with "Live |
| of rules. Be sure to contact the specific airline for the | | | | Animal" and "This Side Up" tags. You should also have |
| specific rules that pertain to its operations. That is | | | | your name, address, telephone number, and |
| priority number one. Also, be sure to give yourself | | | | telephone number at your destination clearly marked |
| plenty of time before the flight to get the necessary | | | | on the crate. When looking for a crate for your pet, |
| information. The airlines have given a lot of thought | | | | many of the top quality dog crates are approved for |
| into safe travel, both for you and for your pet. | | | | air travel. Be sure to ask. |
| Now, let's examine some of the basic things that we | | | | A few general things to consider are: putting your |
| pet owners should think about now that we know | | | | pet's favorite blanket and toys in the crate, booking |
| the airline we are traveling on and its specific rules. | | | | a nonstop flight, and not feeding your pet just prior |
| We should make sure that our pet is not sick, in | | | | to departure. You don't want your pet to get airsick, |
| distress, or violent. Some pets can be sedated for | | | | lost, or stuck out on the hot tarmac for a long time. |
| travel, but it is not recommended, especially for very | | | | Give your pet frozen water or ice cubes in his or her |
| young pets. If you feel that could be a problem, your | | | | dog crate or pet carrier. It will melt slowly, keep your |
| veterinarian is the best source of information on that | | | | pet hydrated, and not spill so easily. Above all, enjoy |
| subject. Also, make sure your pet has the | | | | the company your pet can give you during your |
| appropriate and necessary health documentation | | | | travels. Hope to see you in the air. |