Chances are good that your avian friend will enjoy traveling, especially if he is allowed to remain in your company. Those that do best are birds that are trained from a young age.

Extended travel can be stressful for some birds, though, and you should be in tune with your bird's temperament before taking to the skies (or roads). Except for a trip to the veterinarian, travel is not advised for birds that are ill or physically impaired. Having a trusted friend or relative take care of him is best.

Answer the following questions before deciding to take your bird on a trip:

• What are the regulations and restrictions that apply in transit and at your destination?
• How will you transport your pet?
• What are your travel options?
• Where will your pet stay once you arrive?
• What do you do if your bird gets sick or hurt while you're traveling?

Cats, dogs and most other warm-blooded animals transported via commercial transportation are protected by the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), which is enforced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). If you plan to use commercial transportation, such as an airline, you will be required to conform to provisions specified by the USDA. This helps ensure the safety of your pet, but it also restricts your transportation options and the way that you prepare your pet for travel. If your travel plans will take you out of the continental United States, which includes Hawaii, quarantine regulations and restrictions will also apply.

The most important item for a traveling bird is a quality carrier. Be certain you have a secure escape-proof cage that your bird won't be able to chew through. Traveling with your pet requires that you consider the following:

• How will he be transported and what supplies will he need?
• How will you provide food and water?

When you're packing, include any medications (if necessary), and carry all vaccinations and other health certificates as required.

Transportation options are generally limited to car and airlines. The only animals allowed on Amtrak and interstate bus lines are service animals such as seeing-eye dogs. Some local train and bus carriers may allow small animals in carriers and cages but this varies among individual carriers. If you must travel by train or bus, you will need to make different arrangements to transport your pet, such as shipment via air cargo.

Some motels limit the number of rooms for travelers with pets, and some require pets to be housed in a separate facility. Your lodging plans will have to be made in advance, and your mobility will be restricted by "No Pet" regulations in many public and private areas.

It is possible to find hotels and motels throughout the United States and Canada that will accommodate pets, but even if a facility is listed as accepting pets, you should phone ahead for reservations and discuss their conditions.

If you will be staying with friends or relatives, you must consider whether or not your bird will be welcome. Are there any members of the host family with allergies? Are there other pets in the host household and, if so, how will your bird get along with them? Separate facilities for your bird may be necessary.

Carry your bird's medical history with you. Be sure to include any pertinent medical history information in an emergency kit along with health certificates and identification information.