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On the day of your flight, youre likely to be a little anxious about traveling with your pet. If you followed the guidelines from Part 1 of this article series, youre well prepared and ready to go.

Here are the things youll want to do the day of your flight:

1. Follow any instructions that were given to you by your pets veterinarian. Youll want to give your pet their sedative (if you chose this option). It's easiest to give it to them mashed up in their canned food that morning. Watch your pet eat and make sure that they ingested the correct dosage.
2. Catch your pet and carefully place them in their carrier. The sedative generally takes a while to take effect. Youll know when your pet is fully under the drug when the pupils of their eyes dilate very wide. They may look a little wild, but its just a side effect from the drug.
3. Double-check that you have all of their supplies for the trip.If your pet is boarding the plane and flying in the cabin with you, bring a light blanket to place over the carrier to dim the lights for them. Pack everything into your car and make your way to the airport. Youll want to leave a little earlier than you normally would to ensure enough time to get your pet safely onboard.
4. Take your pet through airport security. All bags and animals must go through security. Your pet will need to go through the metal detector with you. Fortunately, the airport security guards have gotten very sophisticated at this process. Sometimes theyll use a metal detection wand and check your pets carrier without them having to get out of it. If they need to do a more thorough check of your carrier, you can ask to go to another room where they can close the door and ensure that your pet will not escape while they scan the carrier.
5. Check in at the boarding desk. Once youve gotten through security, check in at your airlines boarding desk. Let them know that you and your pet are there and show them the health verification certificate. At that point, theyll make the final determination of whether your pet can travel that day. If your pet will be traveling in the cabin with you, the airline might let you board early.
6. Board the plane and tuck your pet under the seat in front of you.If the temperature in the cabin is cool, drape the light blanket you brought over your pets carrier. This will help simulate night time which might help them sleep on the plane. It might relax your pet to hear your voice every now and then. Check on them occasionally to make sure theyre alright.
7. Feed your pet once youre at your destination.Your pet has been through a lot and will likely be hungry and tired after all of the days activities. Give your pet a safe place to rest and eat. Keep an eye on them for the first few days to make sure theyre recovering well from the stress of flying.

Theres a lot involved with flying with your pets. You can make it easier on yourself and your pet by planning ahead and knowing what to expect. Take the necessary precautions and make the preparations in advance so you and your dog or cat can enjoy the flight.

Sheri Keyser is the Founder and CEO of GoSightsee.com, a travel website that will save you time and money on your next vacation. Get insider travel tips and recommendations on sightseeing destinations, vacation planning resources, and travel deals.

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