Purchase an airline-approved carrier for your dog. Maximum dimensions for carriers accepted in-cabin differ for each airline, so ask the airline you plan to use for your flight what their guidelines specify. Airlines require carriers have two to three sides of ventilation, food and water dishes, and be waterproof. Choose a carrier made of plastic or wood that you can secure with zip ties for pets you plan to check in as baggage. You can bring collapsible, soft-sided, nylon carriers in-cabin. Carriers must allow your pet to sit, stand, lie down and turn around comfortably, according to the American Airlines website.
Make your reservations with the airline you plan to use. If you plan to bring your pet in-cabin, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and you need to make a special reservation for your dog. If you wish to check your dog as baggage, you do not need an advanced reservation for most airlines. Ask the airline if a health certificate from your veterinarian is necessary, as some airlines do not require this for travel within the 48 continental states. Prices to bring your pet in-cabin or as baggage run about $125 to $175, as of April 2011.
Label the carrier for your dog "LIVE ANIMAL" on the top and on one or more sides of the carrier, in one-inch letters, according to Continental Airlines. Federal regulations require this labeling and labels indicating the proper orientation of the carrier on two sides of the carrier. Provide a label with your contact information and destination city on the carrier as well in case of emergency.
Feed your dog four hours before the flight, according to BringFido.com. Bring your dog to the airport before the flight and check in at the ticket counter; self-service or curbside check-in is not allowed with pets, according to American Airlines. Allow extra time for check-in, but do not bring your dog more than four hours before the flight. The airline will not accept your pet this early.
Pick up your dog after the flight if you checked it as baggage and have a leash ready for it so you can walk it after its flight, if possible. Flights from Colorado to Texas usually last about two hours. Your dog has spent additional time in the carrier before and after the flight and may need a short walk to relieve itself and stretch its legs.
Purchase a sturdy pet carrier that has a harness you can strap into the seat belt of your car. Make sure your pet can sit, stand, turn around and lie down comfortably in the carrier, according to the American Kennel Club. Get a carrier with ventilation on at least three sides of the carrier.
Plan your exact route before beginning your car trip. Depending on where in Texas your destination is from Colorado, you may need to stop overnight during your trip. Check petswelcome.com to find a hotel in New Mexico or Texas, along the route, that will allow dogs. Motel 6, LaQuinta and Comfort Inn all allow pets in their rooms. Contact the specific location of the pet-friendly hotel you find to ask about any restrictions or extra fees required for your dog to stay in the room with you.
Place your dog in the back seat of your car for safety, secured in its carrier and strapped into your car. Give your dog a favorite toy, food and water in its carrier to keep it comfortable during the trip. Open a window a crack or use the air conditioner to keep your pet well ventilated.
Stop every two to three hours to walk your dog and allow it to relive itself. Always keep your dog on a secure leash to prevent it from becoming lost. Bring your dog with you if you need to purchase snacks as it can become overheated in your car if left alone, even with a window cracked open.
