by Teya Baram

Created on: October 24, 2008   Last Updated: October 30, 2008

Air travel with your pet can be a great way to include your furry family members in extended vacations or to transport yor pet during a cross-country move. However, just as delays, airport security and congestion can daunt the most seasoned human travelers, care must be taken to ensure your pet has a stress free ride.

Planning ahead will help minimize your stress on travel day. Some carriers limit the number of animals that may travel aboard a given flight. Booking your flight and pet reservation early will help make sure that there is room for your pet on your desired flight. Also, make certain that your pet, when placed in its carrier, actually meets all the of airline's regulation for cabin travel.

Check your pet reservations 48 hours in advance of travel. Sometimes reservations get lost. Avoid the stress on the day of the flight by calling ahead to avoid trouble once at the airport.

Make certain you pack your pet essentials for the day of travel. Food, collapsible bowls, newspaper or wee-wee pad, a small amount of cat litter and an empty, folded cereal box, your pets medication, and emergency numbers should all be placed in your carry-on. In the case of a long delay, the newspaper or cat litter can provide an emergency bathroom break. Also, remember that your carry-on must fit in the overhead bin since your pet will take up the room in the seat in front of you.

On the day of travel do not feed or give your pet water. It is not advisable to give your pet a sedative. Take your dog on a long, tiring walk before going to the airport and a shorter walk once you arrive at the airport. At the ticket counter, make certain you get you pet pass tag, to attach to the carrier to make certain your pet is approved for travel.

At security, remove the collar and any other items from your pet that may contain metal and place them in the tray. Carry your pet with you through the metal detector. All other pet items should go in the bins.

Once aboard the flight, place the carrier underneath the seat. You may not remove your pet from its carrier for the duration of the flight. Practicing sleeping in carrier at home can help your pet feel more at ease.

When you arrive at your destination, make certain you feed, water and give your pet a bathroom break for his comfort. Some airports have designation pet bathroom areas. Check for signs and use common sense.

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