At times, life intercedes and you must travel on the spur of the moment. If you own pets, it could be a major problem. If no one is immediately available to care for your pets, you have two choices. One is to leave your pet in a kennel, where it will be caged most of the time. The other choice is to take your beloved companion with you. The second option has become much easier today than in the recent past.

Most airlines accommodate pets, and some will even let you bring your pet on board, if it's small enough to fit in a kennel that can be placed under the seat in front of you.  If your pet is larger, it will be accommodated in cargo, where temperature and air pressure is regulated as it is with you, the passenger.  

Confirm ahead that the airline will allow your pet on board. There are many smaller discount airlines that do not allow pets, and particularly if you make your reservations online, verify their policies ahead of time. Make your pet's reservation way ahead of time, because, like passengers, the airline can accommodate only a certain amount of animals. For your pet to fly, you must also purchase a health certificate from your veterinarian.  The certificates are good for ten days only, so if your travels will be longer, you'll have to purchase another one to fly home.

Your kennel/carrier will be inexpensive at your local pet store. They come in sizes ranging from very small to very large, and have padded walls for your pet's comfort. Be sure to ask at the store if your carrier is approved for air travel, as some are not acceptable to the airlines.

Air travel will make your pet sleepy, as it does to you, so there's no need for tranquilizers. You may want to crate train your pet, but it's not necessary. Bon voyage to both of you!