Tips for Taking your Pet on an Airplane

June 4, 2005

The Humane Society of the United States and the American Society for the

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommend that you do not transport your pet by

air unless absolutely necessary. But if you must:

* Check with your airline first before bringing your pet to the airport.

* Many airlines allow small pets to be carried in the passenger cabin, but make

sure your kennel fits under the seat.

* Before your trip, take your pet to the veterinarian for a checkup and make

sure vaccinations are up-to-date. Do not give your pet tranquilizers unless

prescribed by a veterinarian.

* Don't feed your pet four to six hours before departure.

* Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and an ID tag with destination

information in case he escapes.

* Book a direct flight and take the same flight as your pet. Avoid travel during

busy travel times; your pet is more likely to be roughly handled then.

* Don't ship pug-nosed animals such as Pekingese or bulldogs in cargo holds

because their short nasal passages make them vulnerable to oxygen deprivation

and heat stroke.

* Buy a shipping crate that's approved by the Agriculture Department and large

enough for your pet to stand, sit and change position comfortably.

* Write " Live Animal " in big letters on the side and top of the crate. Draw

arrows to show the upright position. On top of the crate, write the name,

address and telephone number of the pet's destination, and who is picking up the

animal.

* Tape a photograph of the pet on top of the crate in case it escapes.

* Line the crate bottom with bedding to absorb the impact from an accident.

* Freeze your pet's water so it won't spill during loading but will melt by the

time the pet is thirsty. Tape a small pouch, preferably of cloth, of dried food

outside the crate.

A politician is a man who will double cross that bridge when he comes to it

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