Airline
Travel for Pets has
long been a controversial issue. According to the Air
Transport Association, a trade organization that represents
U.S. commercial carriers, U.S. airlines transport about 500,00
animals each year. As many as 5,000 of them do not make
it to their destination safely, or at all. And these
figures do not include foreign airlines. Most airlines will
allow small pets to travel with their owners in the passenger
cabin, although they they may limit the number of animals
allowed per flight. The ASPCA advises against putting
pets on planes unless they can travel in the cabin.
If your pet must travel in the cargo hold, book a direct flight
and avoid the summer months. Animal Land Pet Movers
is an Atlanta based company which helps arrange domestic and
international travel for pets. "Choosing the right airline
and proper times to fly is crucial", says founder Marc
Morrison. Located at 595 Wimbledon Rd N.E. In Atlanta,
Ga. The company can be reached at 1-404-815-1505
ASPCA
poison control center is a unique emergency hotline providing
24 hour a day, 7 days a week telephone assistance for veterinarians
and pet owners. The center's hot line veterinarians
can quickly answer questions about toxic chemicals, dangerous
plants and other everyday products and substances that can
prove harmful- or fatal- to animals. * A fee may apply.
To reach them call toll free !-888-4 ANI-HELP or visit their
website at www.apcc.aspca.org
Adopting
a Pet Online There are many websites now available to
make adopting the animal of your dreams a snap. One
of the best, www.petfinder.org
links animals shelters from all over the U.S. and is easy to use
and navigate. They also have an extensive library for information
on animal behavior, animal care, adoption tips, and disaster preparedness.
Well worth the visit.