ARA) - Today more than half the population of the United States -- 63 million households -- includes a canine or feline family member. A recent survey showed that 84 percent of dog and cat owners consider their pets as their children. With the deep affection that comes with caring for a pet, animal lovers in growing numbers are loathe to travel without them. In addition to sharing a fun-filled experience, many people no longer see leaving their dog or cat "home alone" with a house-sitter, dog-walker, or caged in a kennel as their only option.

In response to this burgeoning new market, hotel chains, from Hiltons to Holiday Inns, and from the luxurious Ritz Carlton to the world's finest spas, are now accommodating pets. Choosing a destination, however, is only half the equation. The other concern is humane transportation: how to make sure the journey itself is worry-free and enjoyable for pets, people and fellow travelers.

The ease of traveling with pets these days is due in no small measure to one woman: Gayle Martz. Gayle revolutionized the way people travel with their pets by creating a line of soft-sided pet carriers named for her adorable Llaso Apso, "Sherpa."

A former flight attendant, Gayle used her travel expertise to design totes and bags that would comply with regulations and fit under the seat in airplanes. She then personally persuaded the airlines to modify their policies, allowing small pets to travel in the passenger cabins rather than to be checked as luggage!

Small pets can now fly in the cabins of Delta, American, Air Canada, America West, Continental, Northwest, TWA, Alaska, West Jet, United and US Air. Secure in their plush, well-ventilated and cozy "home away from home," pets enjoy the reassuring presence of their owner and vice versa. The officially approved Sherpa Bag and pet totes, complete with matching accessories for both pet and owner, have been heartily embraced by pet advocacy societies such as the ASPCA, the Delta Society, the Humane Society of the United States, and veterinarians across the country.

Whether in the air, on the road, or around town on sightseeing or shopping expeditions, advance planning will ensure that taking your pet along is a delightful experience, says Gayle. Gayle strongly advises travelers with pets to "keep a low profile," which is one of "Sherpa's Ten Rules of "Petiquette" she offers those considering travel with their pet:

Sherpa's Ten Rules of "Petiquette"

1. Familiarize your pet with its carrier before leaving home.

2. Maintain a low profile. Do not call attention to the pet or disturb fellow passengers. Also in consideration of your fellow passengers, do not take your pet out of the carrier. Your pet must stay in the bag under the seat.

3. Carry a current health certificate from your veterinarian, dated within 7 to 10 days of departure.

4. Make sure your pet has a collar with a name tag listing owner's contact information.
Pack a travel kit with your pet's food and treats as well as favorite toys, any medicines, and health documents.

5. When making your reservations, be sure to make one for your pet. Only a small number of pets are allowed in passenger cabins on any given trip. Check reservation and fee policies for individual airlines.

6. Airlines require that pet carriers have absorbent liners -- be sure you have a spare.

7. At the security checkpoint, request that the agent use the handheld metal detector.

8. When traveling outside the United States, contact the appropriate embassy far in advance of your trip for quarantine or health requirements.

9. Do not feed your pet within six hours of departure or provide water within two hours of takeoff, and never use tranquilizers unless advised by your veterinarian.

10. When traveling by car with your dog or cat, says Gayle, be sure the pet carrier is seat-belted. Large dogs should be restrained with a harness. Try not to leave your dog or cat alone in the car. If you must leave for a short period, be sure there is proper ventilation. As with airline travel, the pet should be made comfortable and secure with favorite toys, as blanket or other familiar items.

Traveling with a cherished pet makes a great trip even better," adds Gayle, who said she would not think of going anywhere without her "most precious jewels," Sherpa and Sherpa's best friend and protg, Su-Nae, a Coton De Tulear from Belgium whose name, in Korean, means "True Love." "The girls love to travel," Gayle relates. "In fact, the minute I start to pack they jump in their own carriers, ready to go!"

Sherpa gets thousands of letters each year from delighted pet owners, who thank her for making it possible for them to travel with their pets in comfort and style. Celebrities who have been photographed with their pets in Sherpa bags include Brooke Shields, Tony Bennett, Joan Rivers and many others.

For the most up-to-date travel tips, product updates and to receive the free monthly Sherpa newsletter, visit www.sherpapet.com or call 1-800-743-7723.

Courtesy of ARA Content