Cats and Dogs - Air Travel

If you are traveling by air, check with the airline about its policy regarding pet transportation. Some airlines allow pets, in carriers ( for example the Samsonite Pet Traveler) in the passenger compartments under the seat. This is best because you can touch and talk to her during the flight.

If a cat or larger dog must travel in the baggage compartment, make sure the compartment is heated and pressurized. Try to schedule a direct flight so that your cat is not traumatized by transfers.

The airlines require the use of approved kennels, regardless if the animal is accommodated in the cabin or in the baggage compartment. Please check several days BEFORE your scheduled departure. Even some airlines offer these kennels for sale, they are not always in stock and you might have to go to several pet stores to find one. One airline approved kennel is the Travel Aire Kennel Carriers for dogs. (Can be used for cats also and comes in 3 different sizes).

Certain airlines allow only a limited number of animals on their flights. If you fly with you pet, no last minute reservations please, book in advance!

Airlines also require a certificate from your vet that the animal is healthy enough to travel in addition to proof of vaccinations. Certain destinations such as example Alaska during winter are not fit for pet air-transportation. Check with your airline for restrictions.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals publishes a booklet that contains travel an immunization regulations for travel in every state in the union and in 110 foreign countries. For information, write: ASPCA, Education Department, 441 East 92nd Street, New York, NY, 10028.