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Over major holiday weekends, thousands of pet owners face decisions about whether to fly with their pets.

Until recently, there was no way of knowing how many pets were killed, injured or lost while traveling by air. But in 2005 the U.S. Department of Transportation started requiring airlines to file monthly reports on incidents involving pets. But statistics aren't much comfort to those who lose a pet.

Chris Hunt / Staff (ENLARGE)

The skies aren't always friendly to Fido. Take steps to prevent your pet from getting lost.

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"It's too risky," Roswell veterinarian Melinda Merck said of cargo transport. "Even if it's statistically marginal, it should be a simple, low-risk thing."

Cargo vs. cabin

Veterinarian Mike Younker, president of the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association, said flying pets in the cabin is safe, but otherwise he advises people to leave pets at home with a sitter.

"If they stress easily, or they get stressed when you board them, then they probably won't fly well," he said.

Pet owners need to know their animals — and share the responsibility, vets and industry spokesmen said. American Airlines' spokesman said some owners fly sick or overweight pets. One pet died after its owner administered a human-grade tranquilizer before the flight.

To look at all of the Airline Animal Incident Reports go to airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/reports.

Tips for traveling by air or car

• Before your trip, have your pet checked by a vet and take shot records with you.

• Leave yourself plenty of time to check your pet in. If you're stressed, your pet will pick up on it.

• Book reservations early. Restrictions vary widely among airlines, flights and time of year. Check requirements ahead.

• Use bungee cords, ties or even duct tape to ensure a pet's kennel doesn't break open during transit.

• Book a nonstop flight, even if it costs more.

• When driving, keep pets in a carrier or a harness attached to a seat belt.

• Don't leave pets unattended in a car or hotel.

• Call hotels ahead to see if pets are allowed in rooms and if they have breed or size restrictions.

• If taking a pet to someone else's house, clear it with the host.

Sources: Susan Sims, publisher of Fido Friendly magazine; Dr. Melinda Merck; and Tracey Thompson, founder of PetFriendlyTravel.com

— Staff writer Bridget Gutierrez contributed to this article.