Some pets are born to wander and a few may even earn frequent flyer miles! But for other pets, a road trip is far from the cat's meow.
     Pet travel may ruffle fewer feathers with advance planning. Pointers from the experts at the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) may help smooth the bumps in the road:
     • Dog Trekking. The thought of going out makes a dog's tail wag. But not all dogs find a plane trip or a car ride fun. When dogs are young take them on short car rides and use a safety harness while in transit to prepare them for future travel. A well-constructed car carrier also helps ensure safety and comfort.
     Never leave your dog in a parked vehicle. The temperature inside a car can climb to 120 degrees, even with the windows open! And, since travelling can be rough on a dog's digestive tract, feedings are not usually given for four hours before leaving.
     Make sure your dog is wearing a collar with up-to-date ID tags. A travelling kit should include a first-aid kit, a flea and tick remedy, food and water bowls, a leash and a chewable toy.
      Although most airlines will transport dogs, they may limit the number of dogs per person or the dog's maximum weight. When making hotel reservations, ask about provisions for dogs and nearby places they can run and walk.
      • Kitty Cargo. Travel is not usually something cats enjoy, but if kittens travel at an early age, they may tolerate it as adults. Start by taking kitty on short daytime car trips, always using a car carrier while in transit. Repeat the process every few days, lengthening each trip.
     When travelling, make sure kitty is wearing a collar with up-to-date identification tags. Remember to pack a leash, harness, plastic bags, your cat's favorite bedding along with extra bedding. And, don't forget litter and a litter box. Portable, disposable litter boxes are ideal for travelling and will make for a more enjoyable ride.
     • Packing Up Polly. To test your bird's adaptability to travel, try a dry run to a friend's house and use his travel cage and perch. The size of your travel cage should allow for stretching, climbing, wing flapping along with suitable room for your bird to perch comfortably. Be sure to cover the travel cage with a cloth or blanket so your bird does not get exposed to a cold draft. 
     The travel cage should have identification information, including your name, address, and phone number. Take along enough food because you may not find the brand he's used to. Airlines may not permit more than two birds in one travel container.
     • Travelling with Fish? It's probably not a good idea unless completely necessary. While you're away, it may be preferable to use an automatic fish feeder or special holiday weekend sticks.
     • Gerbil Journey. Life on the road is fairly uncomplicated for animals such as rabbits, hamsters and gerbils, unless they are very young, sick or pregnant. An escape-proof carrier is essential. Rabbits and hamsters are not permitted by some airlines.
     • Roaming with Reptiles. Reptiles are not the most portable of pets. The stress of travel can cause these pets serious, even fatal reactions. If you must travel with them, keep trips short. When moving, consider special reptile moving services.
     Airlines may not allow reptiles onboard as carry-on luggage. If they travel cargo, the cargo area may be cold and the reptile may require a special warmer.
     • Are Pets Allowed? If you are planning on travelling by bus or train, check with your local transit authority in advance about special accommodations and restrictions for pets as some major transit carriers do not allow pets unless considered special skills dogs.
      (NAPSI)-For more information about pet care, check out The Pet Owner's Manual at www.appma.org.