Do you travel with your pooch or leave your dog at home with a pet sitter?

During spring break, summer vacation and the holiday season, many pet-sitting services experience an increase in business because pet owners do not want to subject their dogs to stressful traveling conditions via vehicle or plane.

Tamarah Martin, owner of Pet Taxi and Pet Services in South Euclid, Ohio, said many of her clients realize that leaving a pet in a familiar environment is best.

"It is safer and healthier for a dog to stay in its own environment," Martin said. "There's no trauma involved."

She added that it is important to select sitters that are compatible with your pooch. It is also important to have a custom service plan to fit the dog's routine potty breaks, feeding time and walks.

To insure that this happens, she conducts "pet consults" with the owner and dog to become familiar. She added that at least two of her staff members are matched with a dog.

Martin, who has been in business for 17 years, said pet sitting is ideal if a family will be away for two to three days. If a trip will be longer, she suggests that the dog is provided with overnight service or taken into a staff member's home to curb any separation anxiety.

Securing pet-sitting contracts helps Pet Taxi and Pet Services' bottom line, but Martin does not suggest pet sitting only because of her financial gain. Pet-sitting services make your time away less stressful for your pet than leaving it with a noisy kenneling service.

Traveling By Plane

"It's not really a humane situation, and it's really loud," Martin said of pets being placed in the cargo area of planes. Typically, only smaller breeds are allowed in the passenger area, and many airlines limit the number of small dogs -- in approved crates -- that can ride in the cabin of the plane.

But if you plan to travel by plane with your pooch, there are a few things you should know.

Amy Kudwa, public affairs specialist for Transportation Security Administration, said the liquid and gel guidelines would be unlikely to affect pet travel unless the owner is carrying a water bowl.

If so, the 3-1-1 guideline that requires liquid or gel products to be in a 3-ounce container applies, and dog owners may want to consider "refilling bowls at water fountains."

It is also important that your dog is being transported in an airline-approved crate or carrier. Be sure to add extra cushion so that your pooch is comfortable.

According to the American Kennel Club, there are a few more things to keep in mind:

• Airlines require health certifications and proof of vaccinations.
• Dogs must also be in an airline-approved crate when transported as cargo. Small dogs may remain at a seat or in a crate or carrier.
• Some airlines will not transport animals in extremely hot or cold weather.

It's important to contact your airline carrier for specific information.

Traveling By Car

Not all families will travel by plane for their next vacation. Some families will get to grandma's house or the beach by car. If you plan to carry your pooch along for the ride, be sure that the dog is welcomed at the relative's house, Martin said.

"You have to deal with whether your relatives are dog-friendly or not," she said, adding that she only travels with her dog by car.

After it has been determined that family members will welcome your pooch, it is important to let your pooch travel on an empty stomach to curb any sickness while riding along in the car.

Make sure to set aside enough space for your pet to not only rest, but to move around a bit. Give your pet as much room as you'd give another person to insure its comfort and your patience.

It will also be important to stop frequently for potty breaks.

Be sure to carry food and any medications your pooch may need. Changing your pet's diet immediately before or during a trip can wreak havoc on a sensitive stomach.

Finally, research veterinarians on your path and in your destination's area in case of an emergency.

Once You're There

You may have saved money by traveling with your pet, but don't neglect it amidst all your festivities.

Don't take your pet along on a flight or long drive just to leave it alone in a hotel room. Make sure to plan walks and play time with your furry friend, as it'll probably be stressed about the strange surroundings. Research dog parks and activities that you can do with your entire family -- including your dog.