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Travel Tips - Traveling with Pets

Each airline has its own policy about traveling with pets. Some carriers may not allow pets on their aircraft at all. Others will allow certain kinds of pets, but only in the cargo hold. A few airlines will let smaller cats or dogs travel in a carrying case under a seat in the passenger cabin. But airlines normally restrict the number of pets in the cabin.

For pets that fly, federal and state laws require a health certificate signed by a veterinarian.  These certificates, which can be provided by your vet, must be presented to your airline prior to your flight.

Consider several things before flying with a pet, especially if it will be traveling in the cargo hold:

• Your pet’s health and age. Take your pet to a veterinarian to make certain that it is healthy enough for air travel.
• Remember, puppies and kittens must be at least eight weeks old to travel on an aircraft.
• Consult your vet before giving your pet a tranquilizer. The American Veterinary Medical Association says that, in most cases, cats and dogs should not be given tranquilizers or sedatives before flying.
• Try to book a nonstop flight, and try to avoid busy holiday or weekend travel. It is best to fly your pet during times when temperatures are moderate. For instance, fly in the morning or evening during the summer months to avoid midday heat. Some airlines have restrictions if temperatures are above 85 degrees or below 45 degrees.
• Be sure your pet’s collar and kennel have identification tags that include your name, telephone number, and flight information.
• If the pet is flying in the cargo hold, make sure you put food and water in the kennel.
• Bring your pet’s favorite toys with you.

If you travel outside the continental United States, be aware that some places, including Hawaii, require your pet to have special vaccinations and may impose a quarantine period when you arrive at your destination. Contact the host country, or ask your airline for assistance in learning the rules that pertain to traveling with your pet outside the U.S. mainland.