However, airlines seem to be making an effort when it comes to transporting pets. Continental, named the "most pet-friendly airline" by Petfinder.com, flies pets in climate-controlled cargo holds and has a PetSafe program with a 24-hour Live Animal Desk (800-575-3335) that tracks the pets throughout their trip. Sakson has been flying with dogs for twenty years and approves. "When I go to Newark, it is a pleasure to see Continental's animal shipping area. It's big and there's a young woman there employed to do nothing but make sure the dogs are comfortable. They are really catering to the dog owners." Delta has a Pet First program that prioritizes the handling of pets when they are shipped as cargo. Internationally, El Al Israel recently started the first frequent flier program for pets.

Pet Airways hopes that the commercial airlines will treat pets better as a result of their existence. In the meantime, experts recommend you don't travel with pets in the middle of the day in the summer and that you don't sedate the animal. Make sure your pet has a clean bill of health and make sure the airline is responsive to your needs. One organization, BC Rescue (website), ships hundreds of dogs a year and has excellent point by point suggestions for transporting pets. You can't prevent the unforeseen but with some planning, you can minimize the stress for yourself and your pet.