• Fly as early or as late in the day as possible...so any layovers will be during the coolest part of the day.

• Be polite, but persistent when dealing with airline personnel.

• Check in as late as possible. There will be signs in the terminal stating that dogs must be crated, however, if your dog is well-mannered and on-leash, you may be able to walk your dog into the terminal while pushing your crate. Be prepared to crate your dog if requested to do so by airport personnel. 

• During your layover, ask to see your dog. You may have to be persistent, and remember to always be polite. Whether or not you can will depend on the people working at the time.

• Put huge bright markers on your dog's crate so you can see if from 800 miles away. It will give you peace of mind as you look out your window and see the crate.

• Carry a copy of all your dog's documents (identification, rabies certificate, health certificate, etc) on your carry-on luggage. Also, tape a zip-lock bag containing all the same documents on top of the crate. Often, they can process your dog in advance if all the proper documents are on the crate (which saves time in customs). DON'T take your dog out of the crate before getting to customs.

• For your dog's comfort, put one or two towels in the bottom of the crate. Freeze water in a small bowl and put it in the crate with the dog.

• Make sure everyone on your flight knows you have a dog on board. Don't be embarrassed to remind them, and again, remember to be polite.

• DON'T sedate your dog unless it is ABSOLUTELY necessary.

We hope these tips will be helpful. Have a safe journey.