"The weather outside is frightful," and you may be planning that winter getaway vacation. But before you hop on a flight with your dog or cat, plan carefully to ensure that your pet arrives safely.

Each year 53 percent of pet-owning families opt for bringing their animal companions along with them on vacation. When it comes to traveling with your pet, however, deciding on how to go is just as important as deciding where to go. If you've already eliminated driving for the convenience of flying, it pays to be aware of the risks associated with taking to the air with your dog or cat.

Although odds favor a safe outcome for pets traveling by air, there have been many instances of animals who have been mishandled, lost, injured or even killed. It is important, therefore, to take the proper precautions to minimize the risks.

Ironically, it is often when a pet owner seeks to allay the pet's anxiety with a sedative that the trouble begins. According to Dr. Brian Voynick of the American Animal Hospital in Mount Freedom, the majority of air travel accidents are related to the use of tranquilizers.

"Tranquilizers can bring blood pressure down to dangerously low levels," Dr. Voynick says, adding that familiar surroundings can go a long way toward calming you pet. "Getting an animal acquainted with its crate, and putting in a T-shirt or towel that has the owner's scent makes for a better tranquilizer."

Pet carriers are the most important aspect of safe airline travel. Carriers should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down, but not large enough to permit your pet to be tossed around during travel. Constructed of solid material, they should have ventilation on all sides, sturdy handles or grips, leak-proof bottoms, and be sporting labels that say "LIVE ANIMALS" in all pertinent languages.

Consult your veterinarian before deciding whether or not to fly with your pet. Sometimes, it's your only alternative. Should you choose air travel, the Humane Society of the United States offers these guidelines:

• Cats and small dogs contained in soft-sided carriers can accompany you in the cabin. Check with your airline for specific requirements.
• Choose only direct flights, and travel on the same flight as your animal companion. Watch your pet as it is being loaded and unloaded.
• Do not allow pug-nosed animals such as Pekinese, Chow Chows, and Persian cats to travel as cargo. Their short nasal passages make them susceptible to oxygen deprivation and heat stroke.
• Notify a crew member that your pet is traveling in cargo.
• Avoid traveling in extreme temperatures. In summer, select early morning and late evening flights; during winter, fly during late afternoon.
• Label your pet's carrier with your name, permanent address, phone number, and final destination. The label should also clearly state where you or a contact person can be reached.
• Protect your pet with two pieces of identification -- a permanent I.D. with your name, address, phone; and a temporary address and phone should your pet be lost during your trip.
• Carry a recent photo of your pet should you become separated while traveling.