Know how to tote your pups on a plane

If you're considering traveling with your pet, you should know the basics to save you some trouble at the airport.

Tips from APHIS on Selecting a Travel Container for your pet:

• Look for one that is put together securely, e.g., locking bolts
• Look for metal doors instead of plastic (pets may be able to chew through or bend/buckle plastic doors
• Stronger doors have 4 metal rods that fasten the door to the container
• Ensure door lock mechanism is strong and effective
• No wheels -- most - if not all - airlines will not accept a container with wheels
• Airlines or Air transport organizations do not certify containers. Statements such as "airline accepted" or "IATA Approved" are misleading.

Be sure to acclimate your pet to its traveling kennel before you fly to minimize stress and anxiety.

Add luggage handle wraps to your kennel handles to help you transport your pet more comfortably.