We humans often take for granted the fact that we can buy a ticket, jump on a plane, and reach far away destinations in mere hours. The wish to bring along your dog can complicate matters a but if you remember to plan ahead, traveling with your pet can be a pleasant experience for you and your pet! Here are some things to remember:

Preparation: Check airlines’ requirements
There are certain legal guidelines and restrictions for pet air travel. The airlines themselves have varying regulations, so always contact airlines well in advance to get specific information about procedures, requirements and charges. Keep in mind also that rules may change, so ensure you have up-to-date information.

Airlines may have any of the following transportation options for your pet: in cabin, checked baggage, or as cargo. Regardless of which option will be used for your pet, reservations are required well in advance as each flight can only transport a certain number of animals in each cabin class and cargo hold. These capacities vary by airline and aircraft

If you are traveling with a puppy or small dog many airlines allow you to bring your dog in the cabin as “carry-on” luggage, provided the dog is in an airline approved pet carrier. The general rule is one dog per person. You must be on the same flight as your pet and the carrier in which the pet is to travel must fit entirely under the seat in front of you. The size and weight limitation varies and weight restrictions may also apply. Make sure you have an acceptable crate or bag and that your dog does not exceed the weight limit.

When booking let the airline know the your dog’s size, weight, and health as well as the type and size of carrier. Be sure to reconfirm with the airline 24-48 hours before departure that you will be bringing your pet.

Selecting a airline carrier
There are a variety of different types and styles of dog carriers that are approved by airlines, including kennel-type carriers, totes, and in-between. Some of the carry-on approved airline carriers are similar to handbags and are obviously intended for only the smallest of dogs. Others include the kind that look similar to a duffel bag, but have breathable mesh or netting so that your dog is as safe as they would be in a traditional dog carrier.

When selecting a carrier for airline travel consider the following:
Size: Airlines approve dog carriers to be checked as carry-ons only if they are small enough to fit under the seat in front of the traveler.
Safety:  Strong, durable high-impact shell and windows to let in fresh air when rolled down
Easy of carrying:  Lightweight and balanced, with handle and padded shoulder strap for carrying
Easy of use: Removable and washable bedding
Practical extra features:  Some have shoulder straps that detach to serve as a leash

Before you leave
Take a care kit in your carry on – bottled tap water from your home, baby wipes (good for accidents or when something ‘comes up’), and a cookie or treat.

Prepare your dog for its journey by reducing the quantity of food (not water) the day before flying. You will also want to give your dog a light meal a few hours before check-in. A heavy meal might make your pet sick during the trip. Walk your dog before leaving for the airport and then again before check in.
Take your dog for a walk before you place it in its carrier so that it may relieve itself.

Make certain that your pet is wearing a collar with identification in case it escapes. If traveling in cargo the safest type of collar for air travel is a paper collar you make yourself from a strip of paper and tape with identification written on the paper. This will prevent your pet from accidentally strangling itself in its collar. Never muzzle your pet as its ability to breathe and regulate its temperature by panting will be severely restricted.

Make certain to have a leash or harness with you as most airports will require that the pet be removed from the carrier at the security screening checkpoint so that the carrier may be sent through the x-ray machine. Your pet will not be allowed out of the carrier during the flight.