Sparkle's Top 10 (uhhh...12) Tips for Flying with Your Pooch

#1 Go to http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/reports/index.htm and get the scoop on the safest airline for dogs

#2 Buy a good quality crate that's big enough for your dog to stand, turn, lay down and line with blankets or other comfortable material

#3 Help your dog adjust to the crate NOW!(very important, deserves mentioning x100)

#4 Label your crate like mad (use permanent marker to write directly on the crate and use clear packing tape to adhese paper labels), reflective tape is also helpful

#5 Put extra crate screws, leash, and treats in a ziploc and tape (use clear packing tape) to the top of the crate

#6 Buy a bungee cord to secure the crate door while in flight

#7 Be smart: Take a direct flight if possible, don't fly when too hot or too cold

#8 Create a note for the pilot and tell ALL airport personnel that you are traveling with your dog and do NOT get on the plane without seeing with your own eyes that your dog has been loaded

#9 Do NOT sedate your dog

#10 Call the airline multiple times to confirm the dog's reservation, excactly what you need to bring on flight day, where you should check-in, will the crate go thru a security search, and where your pooch will go once checked-in

#11 On flight day make sure she has had something to eat (although not too recently) and has relieved herself and is well hydrated before you get to the airport

#12 AND...Act Normal: your dog is okay, you are okay, everything is okay!