I have flown Delta with Rory a few times but not U.S. Air.
My experience was simply telling the ticket agent at the counter I was traveling with my dog. He asked me what was in there and then asked if he could see her. Her little head popped out and he said good to go - I think he was just making sure it was a dog and not a snake or something else illegal to carry on. Anyways, I paid the astronomical pet fee ($150 each way) and signed a little ticket that I hooked on my carrier. You run the carrier through the x-ray machines at security with all your other carry on bags and then carry your baby through in your arms when you walk through. I hope that eases your mind a bit. At no point in time did Rory have to get out and walk around - in fact, I think they'd actually prefer it if your dog stayed in the carrier the whole time!
Rory was not sedated as I'd actually read it can be detrimental to sedate them while flying. Something to the effect of a new situation and then not being in a typical fully aware state causing them more stress. Anyways, she did fine with no sedation - minus when the little booger tried to pop her head out during take off. The guy next to me just laughed. Your vet will know what is best for your pup though. Good luck and have a fun and safe trip! |