Anna has a problem. Her job is relocating her 1,500 miles away from where she presently lives. Anna is excited to move, but the thought of placing her beloved Boxer, Brutus, in the cargo hold of an airplane terrifies her. You see, Anna has heard many horror stories about dog transport. Many commercial airlines keep pets in their cargo hold areas. This can be dangerous because the cargo hold is for, well, cargo and not pets. Friends of Anna have told her that some pets do not receive enough oxygen in the cargo hold, or become airsick, or even die! The thought of Brutus scared and uncomfortable in the back of an airplane makes Anna sick. But what can she do? She has to move.

Anna and Brutus are fictional characters, but the problem is legitimate and happens to many pet-owners. However, businesses have finally realized how people feel about their pets. They understand that pets should not be treated like luggage. Pets are part of the family and many companies have made pet transportation their primary business. These companies make sure that your pet reaches her destination comfortably and most importantly-safe and sound.

Many pet transportation companies, such as Pet Transporter Worldwide (PTW) can move your pet anywhere in the world. Companies like PTW take all of the guesswork and hassle out of pet transportation. They pick up your pet from your home and drive them to the airport in heated and air-conditioned vans. They figure out the quickest air routes, and arrange for all pet health certificates and required TSA and USDA documents and permits. They also make sure that your pet travels in live cargo hold areas that are pressurized, insulated, and temperature controlled. This means that your pet can rest happily in her crate for the entire flight.

If you are thinking about transporting your pet by automobile, TLC Pet Transport offers pet transportation by SUV, Grand Caravan, or 30-inch motor home. And if you have multiple pets, they can all travel together. This is a great means of pet transportation because your dog receives one-on-one attention for the entire trip. Plus, the automobile makes stops for exercise and much-needed potty breaks. It may take a little longer for your pet to reach her destination (one to four days), but the peace of mind may be worth it.

Before you have a company transport your pet, there are some things you need to do to prepare her for animal transport.

• Have your veterinarian perform a full examination on your pet. Collect your pet's records, such as vaccinations and kennel cough papers.
• For domestic travel, book your pet transportation four weeks ahead of your departure.
• For international travel, book your pet transportation six to eight weeks prior to your move.
• Have the correct identification on your pet's collar that includes her name, your full name, permanent address and telephone number, final destination, and a reliable contact person.

So, take out the anxiety of moving your pet, and hire a company that specializes in pet transportation. You will feel better knowing that your pet will arrived at his new home happy and healthy.