Some airlines will not transfer animals to a connecting flight. You will need to retrieve them at the baggage claim area and recheck them. Bracheophalic breeds such as Pekingese, Pugs, Chows, Bulldogs and Boxers should never be transported in the cargo hold. Their short nasal passages create breathing difficulties at high altitudes, leaving them vulnerable to oxygen deprivation and heat stroke. Tranquilizing your dog during air travel is usually not recommended.
Drugs can reduce a dog s ability to respond to changes in the environment.
The animal may be less able to respond to cold by shivering and if it gets really hot, she is less alert and unable to respond by panting. Talk to your veterinarian about the risks involved with tranquilizing your pet. You will also need a signed health certificate from your veterinarian usually within ten days before departure. It would be even better to bring along a copy of your dog s medical records to help a new veterinarian treat your dog if health problems develop away from home. A specific set of trip identification tags will reduce the chances of your dog becoming lost.