Have you ever had to take your pet on a plane? How’d that work out for you?? Was it a challenge? We’re guessing it was most likely a bit of a test to fly with your pet, especially if it was a dog. You would think pets would be banned from flying within the passenger cabin of an airplane but in fact, many airlines do allow pets to fly in the cabin. The FAA does have some rules regarding pets on airplanes and they are much like the carry-on rules. The pet container needs to be small enough to fit under the seat and must remain stowed away during the entire flight. You must also be able to produce a recent health certificate for your pet before you check in.

Of course there is a list of pets that are allowed on a plane. (You can’t stow a horse under the seat in front of you.) Each airline usually has a list of animals they allow on their flight=s and you should check with them to get all the information on their rules. You can also check with the FAA’s website to get any other regulations you might need before flying; http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_pets/

So, what if there was an airline that catered to flying pets? Would you use it? Well, you’re in luck. Welcome to Pet Airways…You heard it right, an airline for pets. Some airfares start as low as $149.00 each way for your pet. Now there are no humans allowed on these flights so you’ll have to trust the airline staff to take good care of your pet while traveling…

You drop your pet off at the airport pet lounge, check him or her in and then it’s up to the staff to take care of all your pet’s needs while they travel. Just like the regular airlines, you must check in two hours before but with Pet Airways, you can leave your pet up to 72 hours before the flight and they will take care of everything. From potty breaks, snacks and other care, your pet will arrive in style.

Once at your destination, you can pick up your pet at the lounge and you’re off to a fabulous vacation with you and your pet. While an interesting concept, we’ll see if this is a business that can last and stay profitable. Great concept. Let’s see if they are around in a couple of years.

By David Greenwood

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sc2lvz1LGTc

http://petairways.com/

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=104038148&ft=1&f=1001