Couple of things since we fly a lot with our dogs.

- Always get the vet certificate. Needs to be done within 10 days of flying. Double check the requirements with the airline when you book and then again when you purchase the dog ticket AT the airport. Things sometimes change based on who you talk to.

- Verify the size of the crate with both the airline and the ticket agent at the airport. Get names.

- We do not like flying in the early AM unless we have to; checking in, etc is VERY hectic during that time. Why push it? We take a later flight.

- We pre-pay both ways, so there is no question that is valid that the dog can fly. The paid round trip ticket for the dog is a legal contract. So, we go to the airport a few days before the flight and buy the dog's ticket. We do not do the electronic thing for the dog, just the people.

- Before you book your ticket, make sure that the airline has confirmation that the dog is OK'd on all legs of the trip.

- Make sure that connections are about 2 hours, especially through bigger airports.

Hope this helps.

Sue's suggestions are great. Especially make sure the airline will accept the crate. Once I had to drive to another city to make a direct flight out for a greyhound I placed.

The crate that the Delta Dash people at home would've accepted without question was rejected by the handlers in KCMO.

We had to make a flying trip to a nearby Earle May and pay a premium for a crate that, honestly, was MUCH too big for the dog. But it was the only one they would accept.

Many, many thanks to everyone for all of the excellent suggestions. I now feel I've got the info I need to do the research and make sure we'll have a safe and successful trip.

Thanks all!

Mike