At some point in every jetsetter’s life comes an ephemeral yet difficult farewell to the canines and felines who love us unconditionally. Pet lovers rejoiced when upscale hotels began rolling out the red carpet for our beloved friends. However, the intricacies of pet-friendly travel are far more complex than supervised doggie socials. Airlines have yet to match the pet-friendly paradigm, severely limiting choices for comfortable transportation. From domestic getaways to international immigration, it’s a tangled web of terms and conditions, restrictions, and hidden charges. According to Chris Nichol of www.pettravel.com, advance planning and due diligence is the key to overcoming the diverse requirements for canine and feline globetrotters.

 

Fine Print

Commercial Airlines – Airlines differ when it comes to rules for pet types, breed restrictions, and whether pets can fly as carry-on baggage, checked baggage or cargo. Checking a pet as luggage or cargo carries risk, especially with seasonal variations, extreme temperatures, delays, and airport mishaps. All pets require a certificate of good health from a veterinarian.

 

Pocket Pets – To bring a small pet on a domestic flight as a carry-on, he or she must fit into a small IATA approved carrier with a waterproof bottom that fits under the seat in front. He or she cannot weigh more than 18 lbs and must be less than 12 inches tall. Note that most airlines will not allow more than two pets per cabin total.

 

Size matters – A number of high-end hotels like the Ritz-Carlton, the Four Seasons and the Mandarin Oriental permit only small pets (usually under 30 lbs) and may charge a one-time cleaning fee for the duration of the stay.

 

Pet Passport – Outside the continental U.S., each country and territory imposes its own restrictions and immigration rules. Chris recommends that all pet owners create a Pet Passport, a collection of all identifying and required documents for entering a given country, six months in advance. This will facilitate travel and avoid unwanted quarantine.

 

No Strings Attached

Personal Jet or Charter – This is the superlative method for bypassing commercial restrictions on quantity, size, and breeds.

 

Pooch Palaces – Brands like Kimpton, Loews and Fairmont are committed to welcoming all pets at no extra charge. Most properties even boast in-house mascots, hamming it up in the lobby for Scooby snacks.