FLYIING WIITH PETS

Here's what you need to know about flying with your pet:

! Most airlines require pets to be considered healthy, under 100 pounds and at least 8 weeks old.

! Pets are never allowed out of their containers, and, of course, the airline assumes no responsibility for their health and well being. (Many even state on their web sites that crew members cannot perform lifesaving measures on ailing pets.)

! Less traditional pets aren't allowed at all.

! The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which regulates pet air-travel, requires a health certificate from a vet 10 days before traveling for animals flying as cargo, but not when flying as checked baggage or carry-on. Carry such certification in any case just in case you are asked for it.

! Many airlines suggest and apply the certification even for pets transported in the cabin because some states require it. (To learn which ones, visit http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/s regs/.) Health certification is also required on most international flights.

! Fees vary.

! Alert the airline of a pet when booking your flight to make sure there's room in the cabin.

! Fly during a weekday when airports are less hectic.

! Fly in the morning or evening during the summer, and midday during the winter.

! Choose a nonstop, direct flight.