It's not unusual to go flying with a dog these days since airlines have really done a lot to accommodate animal cargo. Here are some tips to make the adventure as pleasant as you can.

If your dog is small enough, carry him aboard with you in a crate. Airline policies may state otherwise, but the general rule is that if your crate can fit under a plane seat, you can bring it and your dog with you inside the plane’s cabin. You can not carry a non-crated animal on board however, nor can you fly with an uncrated animal period. Although large dogs travel with the baggage, they too must be crated. See our article about air travel tips for specific instructions on crating a dog and our dog travel checklist for even more travel tips.
There are a few displeasing things that you should be aware of when flying with a dog on the other hand. As cargo, pets don’t always have access to appropriate temperatures or ventilation and quite honestly, there are a few misfortunate mishaps. Sometimes, animals die when they’re transported this way. So to reduce deaths, an airline may not allow animal passengers in extremely hot or cold weather. Or it may put a cap on what breeds are allowed since some dogs are more susceptible to temperature related distress. If you’re not sure that flying with a dog will be safe, ask a few airlines about the precautions that they take. Animal deaths are rare and airlines are generally cautious. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the idea however, you can always drive, take a train, ride a boat, or arrange for your dog to be cared for while you're away.