Traveling with pets can be difficult and stressful, especially if it involves flying to your travel destination. Here are some recommendations for flying with cats and dogs to make it easier on both you and your pets.

1. Research the policies and restrictions of the various airlines you’re considering. Each airline has its own rules and regulations for traveling with pets. You may be able to keep your pet in the cabin with you (stowed under the seat in the proper carrier) if are traveling with a cat or small animal that meets the requirements. If you’re traveling during extremely high or low temperatures, you want to ask if the area beneath the plane (where large animals are transported) is temperature-controlled. Some airlines don’t have this feature and will not carry pets during the hottest or coldest months of the year in order to protect them. It’s not worth risking the life of your pet. If the airline doesn’t have the ability to control the temperature in these areas, keep looking. If your pet will be traveling in the cabin with you, select a window seat when you book your flight so your pet won’t be jostled around by other passengers getting up and down from their seats.
2. Purchase a pet carrier that meets the airline’s requirements. Airlines’ policies vary regarding the size and dimensions of their allowed pet carriers. Make sure yours conforms or you may find yourself in the undesirable position of having to make alternative arrangements last-minute at the airport.
3. Make sure your hotel has pet accommodations. Call the hotels you’re considering and ask whether they allow pets. More hotels are permitting pets now than a few years ago. Expect to pay more per night as well as a non-refundable cleaning fee. Keep looking until you find one that works for you and your pet.
4. Talk with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Once you know the requirements for your airline, schedule an appointment with your pet’s veterinarian to discuss your upcoming trip. Depending your pet, your vet might recommend a sedative. You’ll also need to get a health verification certificate for your pet within 10 days of your flight. Go ahead and schedule this appointment with your vet during your earlier visit. The vet will essentially give your pet a check-up and verify that they’re up-to-date on their vaccinations. You’ll need the health verification certificate in order for your pet to get on the plane.
5. Call the airline and make arrangements for your pet’s flight. This is imperative so you can ensure that your pet will be able to board the flight. Pets have airline tickets just like human passengers. You’ll need to pay for their flight (usually $60-$150 depending on the type and size of the pet and the airline). They’ll also give you instructions on what to do the day of your flight.
6. Purchase a portable water bowl, mini food dish, a pee pad, and anything else your pet might need while traveling. Most airlines will require that you come prepared with these items as well as “live animals” sticker for your pet’s carrier. Check with your airline and use common sense when selecting these items. Even if your trip is short, your pet will probably get thirsty and need to drink some water. Come prepared.
7. Clearly label your pet’s carrier. Make sure that your pet’s carrier has the following information easily available:
   • Your name
   • Your phone number (cell number, too!)
   • Your home address
   • Your travel destination
   • Pet’s name
   • Pet’s gender
   • Pet’s age
   • Pet’s species (cat or dog)
   • Vet’s name
   • Vet’s phone number
   • Any health conditions your pet has

Once you’ve completed your research, met with your veterinarian, decided whether to use a sedative or not, determined how your pet will be traveling, and purchased and prepared the supplies, you’re all set. Make sure you and your pet get a good night’s sleep the night before your flight.

Be sure to read Part 2 of this article to learn what to do the day of your flight with your pet.

Sheri Keyser is the Founder and CEO of GoSightsee.com, a travel website that will save you time and money on your next vacation. Get insider travel tips and recommendations on sightseeing destinations, vacation planning resources, and travel deals. Sign up for our free travel tips newsletter today and get travel deals and updates. Sign up now Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sheri_Keyser