bringing their beloved dog or cat along on vacation, the stakes
are even higher. Cautionary tales abound, especially about
incidents on aircraft. The Department of Transportation (DOT)
reports that in 2014, there were 17 pet deaths, 26 pet injuries
and two pets gone missing on U.S. carriers. While one pet
death, injury or loss is too many, more than two million pets
and animals are flown by the nation's carriers each year.
Here are five myths about traveling with pets.
veterinarian at Canine Camp Getaway in the Adirondacks. "The pet cargo area is temperature and pressure-
controlled, just like the passenger cabin."
and is past host of Petcetera on Animal Planet Network. Dr. Werber says that "short-snouted breeds like bull-
dogs, Boston terriers and pugs are more prone to travel-related problems."
temperature that your pet is subjected to. He notes that there are companies that arrange pet travel, but to
be sure to find a reputable company with references you have checked.
same flight as your pet so you can keep track and check on him or her."
due to crates being dropped or broken, or other mishaps are most likely during loading and unloading."
board the plane," says Dr. Coger. "Tarmacs can get blazingly hot or dangerously cold, putting a pet sitting in an
airline crate at great risk. Some airlines have climate-controlled pet areas where pets are held until they board.
Always ask what an airline's procedures are for pets that are waiting to board, and for when they are unloaded."
when to take a rest stop, to feed, water or exercise the pet. This is safer and more advantageous for some pets,
such as an arthritic pet, one with other health conditions or one that is extremely anxious. "