Claire's Articles
Pets
If you absolutely have to fly your pet, be aware that some airlines restrict pet travel during cold and hot weather and during busy holiday periods. That's because most pets have to travel in a special area of the cargo hold, and there's a danger that it could get too cold or hot, or that the pet will be "bumped" off the flight because there's too much luggage on board. Always choose a direct flight to minimize the chances that your pet could be misdirected or delayed during a stopover.
The airlines generally require proof of vaccination, at least for rabies, and they require that the pet be in a hard-sided carrier big enough to lie down and turn around in. While it was once commonly suggested that pets be sedated, we now know that sedation can potentially be harmful because it can slow down their heart rate. Talk to your veterinarian about strategies to ease your pet's stress level when flying.
The Humane Society of the United States has some excellent advice about pet travel at www.hsus.org. The bottom line is to do whatever's best for your pet. And never forget that airlines classify pets as baggage. While individual airline personnel may care very much, the airline's schedule and bottom line will always come first.
