Know rules of airlines before you go

The airlines permit pets to travel, sometimes even in the cabin. But as with everything relating to air travel, there are scads of rules and regulations.
On Northwest Airlines, for instance, it will cost you $80 to take the pet into the cabin with you. But that applies only to the smallest of pets, those less than 15 pounds. Any other pet must be checked and travel in the luggage compartment. That's where the heaviest dose of regulations kicks in.
Here are just a few:
*The airline won't accept the pet if the ground temperature at any stop on the itinerary is forecast to be above 85 degrees. And if you're checking a snub-nosed dog or cat, the maximum temperature is 75 degrees.
*You must have a veterinarian's certificate of health attached to the pet's kennel.
*The kennel floor must be lined with absorbent material.
*The kennel must have stickers noting "this side up," "live animal inside," contact information and feeding information. (Food, if necessary, must be attached to the exterior of the kennel.)
*Most airlines have similar regulations. But given that rules vary and prices are different, it is essential that you call ahead at least 48 hours before traveling. In fact, some airlines require the 48-hour notice because there is a maximum number of pets permitted on most flights.
*One last point. Gone are the days when only leader dogs for the blind qualified as service animals. Now, pets that assist in all manner of tasks can qualify as service pets, too, including those that ease a person's anxiety. You could be required to verify the pet's status, though. So that means you'll need a document from a health-care professional.