I’ve gathered this information from various sites and placed here for your convenience, but in regards to specific airline and government regulations I ask you to be be considerate and obtain specific instructions from the airline of your choice when considering pet shipping to ensure a quality experience for both you and your pet.

Many different types of animals are transported each year here in the United States, and to a variety of different countries as well. Great care is taken by airline personnel to provide safety and comfort to the animals under their supervision.

Pets usually will need to have a health certificate in order to travel by plane. Even if the airline you choose does not require you to have it on hand, remember that the state or country that you are flying from or to may require it.

When shipping pets aboard airplanes, you will be required to fill out a live animal checklist to confirm that your pet has eaten and had water prior to check-in. Instructions will also be required at this time by the airline for caring for your pet while in transit, and if feeding will be necessary, food will likely need to be supplied.

When shipping your pet as checked luggage or cargo, an acceptable kennel must be provided. The kennel must be of adequate size for your pet, with enough space to allow it to sit without its head touching the roof, and ample room for it to turn around and lie down comfortably.

Under the U.S. Department of Agriculture are the Animal Plant and Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These entities write and regulate the laws governing the practice of pet shipping on airlines. Go to aphis.usda.gov for more information on shipping pets aboard airplanes.

Photo © garyr

Of course, not all pets can be good trip companions, but quiet and trained dogs are irreplaceable in such cases. Surprising as it may sound, dogs enjoy traveling as much as humans do. They share the same excitement when finding themselves in new places and meeting new people.

Besides, when you leave for some place for a long time, leaving your pets, especially your dogs all alone, they undergo serious stress. Even the most relaxed and trained dogs may become agitated with everyone around them. Dogs have a sense of being abandoned.

In order to avoid such circumstances and prevent insult to my dearest dog, I took him with me while traveling to California. I had arranged a three-month fitness vacation for me at a California fitness camp. Since I gained too much weight I had to turn to a weight loss retreat. I knew that I was going to face many difficulties, and a good companion would be great support for me.

After that trip, I came to the following conclusion: “Wherever I travel, I’ll take my dog with me.” No other companion can give me as much positive energy during my trip as he does.

Photo: © cbcastro

Dogs are very sensitive to foods, which is why a wise and caring pet owner should avoid foods that may have negative effects on the dog’s metabolism. The truth is that unhealthy food has its impact not only on the metabolism of the dog, but also on its skin, teeth, vision and heart.

Very often, because of being overfed, dogs face a problem that is very common among humans: being overweight. Extra weight can be as harmful for dogs as it is for people. However, many pet owners do not understand that fact and start caring for their dog’s health only when the dog is already too overweight.

Dogs are very lucky compared to their “ancestors.” Today there are numerous weight-loss camps for pets, and by attending these boot camp classes dogs may easily lose extra weight and start a healthy lifestyle. These pet camps are like any fat farm, bridal or adult fat camp.  Professionalized and experienced staff works with the dogs prescribing healthy diets for each one individually.

Such a fitness vacations can be a great help for your dog. Your dog wants to be slim and healthy. Arrange fitness vacations for your pet. Help him lead a healthy lifestyle.

Photo: © butler.corey