By Ginny Morris

When it comes to transporting your small dog one of the difficult decisions you will make is if you should transport them at all. Some situations do not leave you and option but if your choice is to leave them at home verses taking them with you there are many things to consider. The first thing I would think about is the stress level of your small dog and how that stress level would be effected transporting your small dog. Though you don't want to leave your little one behind it might be better for your dog to miss you in a comfortable environment than go through the drama of being transported.

If you are going to transport your small dog by airplane you should be able to carry him with you on the plane. Of course check with the airlines and find out what their guide lines are. Airlines have rules and guide lines it shows that they have given some thought to the safety of your little one and have set up these guidelines for the safety of your pet. If airlines have rules and guide lines it shows that they have given some thought to the safety of your little one and have set up these guidelines with the safety of your dog in mind.

If you use a carry on for your dog you would want to consider his comfort and safety by making a few simple decisions. The nice soft side carriers are best for a carry on to an airplane, bus or train. Be sure the closures are secure. My sister has a soft side carrier and her little one pushes so hard that he pops right out. I prefer the carrier with zip up sides so you can close the carrier up and keep from exposing your little one to unnecessary activity that may contribute to his anxiety. Speak softly and calmly to your pet while they are in the carrier to reassure them that all is well. These carriers usually have padded bottoms in them for comfort but a small baby blanket, maybe one that your dog likes to sleep near, would make him feel more at ease.

Be cautious about people approaching the kennel and wanting to talk to or pet you dog. Keep in mind that while your dog is usually very friendly he is in strange territory and not at ease and he could behave in a way that is not his usual behavior and why stress him out any more than usual.

When I am transporting my small dog I keep a bottled water with me and a small cup to offer him a drink if it has been in the carrier an extended period. I also carry some treats in case he get hungry , but don't be concerned if they do not want to drink or have a snack when they are in a stressed-out situation. They should be fine without water or food for a few hours, ask your vet the time length that would be appropriate for your dog. If it will be a while before your doggie can walk and go potty you may want to be reserved on how much water they drink.

If you leave your dog unattended they may have the urge to dig and try to get out of the carrier and can break thru the mesh sides so be sure that you do not leave your dog unattended. It's a good idea to clip your dog's nails before the trip so they will not get caught in the mesh and for their own comfort.

If your small dog cannot be carried on the plane and has to go with air cargo, please consider the risk that are involved. Transportation in air cargo during the summer time puts your little one at even greater risk due to the hot temperatures in the cargo area. The cargo personnel sometimes do not take into consideration what is inside the carrier, Place label on all side stating that there is a pet inside and be sure to have your name and contact information on the carrier where it will not come off or become damaged. Also include any special information that would be needed in case your pet does get lost and should need any special care until he can be returned to you. Booking a nonstop flight will lessen the risk of loosening your pet.

Be familiar with the"Safe air Travel for Animals Act". This was founded in the year 200 by the Federal Government to ensure the safety of transporting dogs or other pets.

These are just a few things to keep in mind while transporting your small dog, always ask your vet for more information or inquire with the the train, bus or plane personnel about any questions or doubts you might have.