[CouversMom]

Originally Posted by Chorkie

I just adopted a Yorkie mix (we think Yorkie-Chi, or as the designer dog people call them, Chorkie) puppy from the shelter about a month ago. She is approximately six months old and is a great dog. Rarely barks, very loving and friendly, great with my cats and does not seem to ever potty in the house! She is just so easy and smart.

I have never owned a small dog before and I go out of town at least one weekend a month, so I'm looking forward to the experience of owning a portable sized dog. I could use some advice from those of you who travel with your Yorkies.

What should I look for in a carrier? What are your likes/dislikes?

Do you normally have to have your health paperwork with you to fly within the continental U.S.?

She is a Los Angeles dog, so do you think she needs a coat when we go up to the Seattle area in winter? If so, what kind would you recommend?

What can you tell me about getting a dog through airport security, etc.? I noticed this last weekend coming back from Las Vegas that people had dogs out of their carriers and on leashes in the airport. Is this ok to do? I thought they had to stay in the carrier at all times except when going through the screening part.

If you're an experienced traveler with your pup, please help me out so that I don't do the wrong thing/buy the wrong stuff!

I travel a lot with my pup, but have yet to fly, so my advice is based off of my experience

As the previous poster said, I would first start getting her used to a carrier. I have a Kwigy Bo Alex, and with the windows on the bag closed, it looks just like a large purse. With this, you can take your pup anywhere you want. It is important that you start training her to be comfortable for periods of time in the bag. Start out with walking around the house in the bag, and then slowly increase the time that she is in it. This will be vital when it comes to travelling.

I would also suggest buying her a jacket and a sweater. We are in Seattle right now, and Couver gets cold here. For her comfort, I would recommend purchasing some warm clothing. Wal-Mart has cute and inexpensive clothing for dogs.

It is a lot of fun owning a portable pup, and you will find that if you expose her to as much as possible, it will be a great experience for both of you. Have fun travelling!