If you're planning to travel by air with your pet, there are some considerations that you should first take into account. To begin with, be aware of the risks involved. Regardless of how careful and cautious you and the airline carrier are, there are always significant risks that can occur anytime you decide to transport your pet by air, such as safety and health issues. Due to the number of risks involved, it's usually recommended that you seek other alternate means of transportation if possible. If air transportation is your only option, however, there are some things that you can do to help make the process safer and easier.

Some breeds should not be transported by air because of a susceptibility to breathing difficulties caused by thin air at high altitudes. These include Boston Terriers, Bulldogs, Boxers, Chow Chows and other dogs, as well as Himalayan and Persian cats. Sick, nervous, pregnant or older pets should also not travel by air. Be sure to first check with your veterinarian as to whether or not air travel is safe for your pet.

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