As pet owners and animal lovers, most of us miss our pets when we're away from home. After all, one of the most common reasons people adopt pets is for companionship. Wouldn't you like to share the wonder and beauty of your chosen vacation spot (or business trip location) with your canine (or even feline) friend?

As a matter of fact, many people travel with their pets - around town, on day-trips, across the country and even internationally. I enjoy myself more when I bring my dogs with me because I get to experience the world through their eyes - to them everything is new and exciting! I also stop to smell the flowers (or swim in the river, or take a walk through the forest) more frequently - for the dogs, of course - rather than rushing to get to my destination.

Of course, I am prepared to ensure a safe and comfortable voyage for my canine companions as well. My dogs enjoy a luxury suite in the back of my truck, with a canopy overhead and a futon mattress beneath (OK, maybe I've gone a bit overboard). Many people bring their pets in the cab of their car or truck, while some purchase dividers so Fido can ride in back without disturbing the vehicle's other occupants. Remember: safety first. If you're dog is going to sit in the front seat with you, you might want to consider a safety belt specially designed for the canine physique. If you plan to let Sparky ride in the back of your open truck you must (by law) have him or her attached by a lead to BOTH sides of the bed. Finally, always bring a water bowl and jug of H2O with you, especially in warm weather. Other supplies you might consider toting along are towels, blankets and doggie snacks.

NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET IN A HOT CAR! Even with the windows cracked your pet can easily overheat enclosed in a small space, covered by a fur coat, with the sun beating down and reflecting off the asphalt.

What if you want to actually leave town? Where can you stay? What can you do with your furry friend while you're gallivanting around? Believe it or not, there are lots of places that accept pets - from popular hotel chains to fancy bed & breakfasts to restaurants and even amusement parks. When you're taking a trip with your pet, plan in advance. Most likely you have an itinerary already in mind - use that to research lodging and recreation spots that are pet-friendly. Check out Petswelcome.com - the largest online resource for pet travel, with thousands of approved hotels, B&B's, ski resorts, campgrounds and beaches to choose from. There are also many books available with lists of pet-friendly accommodations. For travel close to home my favorite is "The California Dog Lovers Companion" by Maria Goodavage, which includes not only a 4-paw rating scale, but detailed descriptions of the amenities provided for your pet (and since the author has visited each location she and her canine companions speak from experience).

OK, you've decided to venture outside Humboldt County, and even cross state lines - or maybe you're visiting another country. You may be required to provide documentation on your pet, such as a Rabies Certificate, Health Certificate or even an Import Permit. Make sure you do your homework and have Sassy's paperwork easily accessible.

There has been considerable controversy over whether air travel with your pet is safe. On most airlines your pet is considered "cargo" and may only be transported in an approved portable kennel stored in the same compartment as your luggage. Small animals that fit in carry-ons may board with you, but are generally required to be kept under your seat. I personally would not recommend allowing your pet out of your sight when traveling by air - there are no guarantees that it will be safe. However, if there are no other options, here are a few things to remember: 1) never sedate your pet, as high altitudes and sedatives are a dangerous combination; and 2) make sure all identification tags contain proper contact information and are securely attached to both the portable kennel and the pet itself. The good news is that there is a new airline called Companion Air (www.companionair.com), whose business model is to allow you to fly with your pet in the cabin of the plane. Check it out - the more business we give these services, the more widely available they will become.

We generally think in terms of traveling with our dogs, but what if you want to bring your cat along, or another family pet? Acclimating your pet - whether cat, dog, or another species - is key to reducing the stress of exposure to unfamiliar surroundings. If your pet has never traveled in a car before it will naturally be afraid and may react negatively, possibly even injuring itself. Take your pet on small outings frequently, so that it gets used to the routine. You'll also learn what your pet enjoys (e.g. do they like to hang their head out the window?) and what supplies you should carry with you (harness for your cat, bags for waste, etc.).

Why leave your pet in a kennel when you can take them with you? Enjoy your pet's company wherever you go, and please, travel safely.