Traveling With Pets on International Flights

• The International Air Transport Association (IATA) oversees pet travel on international flights and on flights that leave from the United States to a foreign country. A United States Interstate and International Certificate of Health Examination for Small Animals is required from an APHIS-approved veterinarian. The health certificate must include the official stamp of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and be issued between 7 and 14 days before boarding. Since pet requirements differ by country, check with the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting for information about entry requirements and necessary documentation for pets. When traveling with a pet to another country, be prepared for inspections at each point of entry in your travel plans. If flying with your cat or dog to Hawaii or Guam, quarantine requirements apply. If traveling to the United Kingdom with your dog or cat, you will need to bring along a Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) entry or reentry certificate from an APHIS-accredited veterinarian.

Pets as Carry-On Luggage on International Flights

• U.S. and Canadian airlines have different requirements for pets on international flights. Northwest Airlines only allows pets on some international flights and must be contacted in advance to make arrangements. Air Canada allows 2 pets in the cabin per flight. American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Airlines prohibit pets on flights to the United Kingdom. Northwest, however, allows pets if they pass PETS requirements that avoid the animals' quarantine. Most international airlines, including British Airways, Air Berlin, Air France, Air India, Alitalia, Asiana, Austrian, JAL Japan, Swiss and Virgin Atlantic, allow small dogs, cats and birds to travel in the passenger cabin on certain flights and larger pets to travel in the cargo area. International airlines that prohibit any size pet from traveling in the passenger cabin include Aer Lingus, AeroMexico, Air New Zealand, Bangkok, Emirates, Icelandair and Qantas. However, animals are allowed in the plane's cargo area.

5. Air Travel Tips for Small Pets in the Cabin Although large pets are restricted to the cargo hold in an airplane, small pets can actually be taken into the cabin as a "carry-on." Travelers should be sure to make arrangements with the airline prior to flying, as most airlines have a maximum pet per cabin limit. In addition, reading up on some basic guidelines can ensure a safe and comfortable ride for both pet and owner. Check With the Vet

Many flights require a certificate from a veterinarian stating that the pet is in good health and allowed to fly. Often these certificates need to be issued within 10 days of the flight, so keep that in mind when making the appointment. Even if the airline does not require a vet visit, it's a good idea to rule out any complications that could arise from high-altitude travel. Many pet owners ask about sedatives for the flight. These are generally not recommended, as they can have potentially dangerous reactions at high altitude. If a vet does prescribe a sedative, make sure that they are aware it is for air travel, not on the ground. Get to Know the Crate

Most airlines require that pets traveling in the cabin ride inside an approved crate. Different airlines may have different requirements for the crate, so make sure to look into the specifications before purchasing one. The crate should have a dish for water attached to the inside of the door so that it doesn't spill. Before the flight, travelers should familiarize themselves with using and carrying the crate, as well as check for any broken fixtures or fastenings. In addition, allowing the pet to investigate the crate by leaving it open in an accessible area can help to reduce the pet's anxiety. Have Identification Clearly Visible

Those traveling with pets need to be prepared in case of mix-ups or sudden escapes. The pet should be wearing an ID tag that clearly states contact information for the owner. The number for the cell phone the owner travels with is ideal. Otherwise, a temporary travel ID should be attached with contact information for the trip. The pet's crate should be labeled with name, address, flight information, destination and an alternate contact. In addition, carrying a photo of the pet can be useful in case of a runoff or mix-up with the crate. Decreasing Stress

Traveling with a pet means getting to the airport early to take care of any additional paperwork as well as a last-minute walk. If possible, restricting the pet's food four to six hours before the flight is not a bad idea. During the boarding process and the flight, the owner should try to remain as calm as possible. Pets can sense stress and will react accordingly. Reassure the pet in a calm, soothing voice once seated and comfortable, but try to allow the pet some freedom to settle in and go to sleep on his own. Which Airlines Are Pet Friendly?

Airlines are often considered pet-friendly if they allow animals on board. However, the words "pet-friendly" now carry a whole new meaning. Pet-friendly airlines now pay special attention to the care and comfort of animals on board, ensuring their travel experience is equal to the quality of service and comfort experienced by its passengers. In 2009, five airlines were considered pet-friendly, according to the Newsvine website. Continental

• Continental Airlines has a PetSafe program, which has a dedicated 24-hour live animal desk, that tracks pets from origin to destination. Continental Airlines offers a climate-controlled area, allows roomy carriers and has a cargo staff. Small cats, dogs, rabbits and birds may be brought to the cabin for most domestic flights.

Continental Airlines PetSafe Program (800) 575-3335 continental.com

JetBlue Airways

• At no additional cost, JetBlue Airways provides passengers with a pet carrier bag tag, welcome email and a free pet-travel guide. JetBlue Airways does allow small cats and dogs to remain with their owners in the cabin.

JetBlue Airways (800) 538-2583 jetblue.com

AirTran

• AirTran is the least-expensive airline to fly with a small pet. Small dogs, cats and birds are allowed in the cabin on this airline.

AirTran (800) 247-8726 airtran.com