Three essential rules for pet airline travel

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Airline regulations can be daunting for human passengers, never mind pet travelers. If your pet must travel by air this summer, please note that purchasing airline passage for an animal doesn’t mean it will be accepted at check-in time. To avoid unnecessary stress for you and your pet, know your airline’s specific requirements. Visit pettravel.com for immensely helpful information and suggestions.

The following 3 pet travel requirements are not suggestions—they are basic necessities. Remember, TLC (Temperature, License to fly, Container):

1. Temperature: Be aware of heat restrictions or summer heat embargos that may prevent your pet from flying in cargo or baggage holds if the temperature at either end of your pet’s flight is above 84°F (75°F for certain breeds). Book early morning or late evening flights for the best chance of getting on board.
    
2. License to fly: You’ll need a general health certificate from your vet issued within 10 days of travel. Even if your pet’s vaccination records are up to date, you can’t squeeze out of this one. 
    
3. Container: Follow airline pet container requirements to the letter. Generally, if your pet is traveling as air cargo or as checked baggage, the pet crate must be ventilated on all four sides and be large enough to allow the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down. Food and water bowls must be attached to the inside door of the carrier. Your contact info, your pet’s name, and “Live Animal” stickers or markings must be affixed securely to the container. One of my petsitting clients’ cat carriers was rejected by an airline because it had snap-down clasps, instead of screws, holding it together. If unsure, buy an IATA-approved crate (all of Kennel Aire’s pet crates meet travel requirements).
        If your pet is traveling with you in the cabin, Sherpa-brand carriers are an excellent choice. They’re accepted by most airlines and distribute the animal’s weight well, which makes for a lighter load for you. Whichever brand you choose, the pet carrier must fit under the airline seat and have a waterproof bottom.
    

Yes, it can be frustrating and expensive to adhere to every regulation but, keep in mind, TLC is what it's all about: both you and the airline want to get your pet to its destination safely.  

Related articles: 
Baltimore Pet Care Examiner article, "Pet-friendly airlines" highlights new Pet Airways (Wish MSY was one of its destinations.)