Editorial: April 14, 2023

Now, preaching to the choir can be like urinating in the wind, but sometimes a member of the choir sneaks out to have cigarette. (Yes, some people still smoke.) So for those souls, we will remind you of certain things that come with planes and spring. This first weekend of spring brings unusual and exceptionally high temperatures across the country. The unexpected heat brings situations we haven't dealt with for a year. Blossoms on the trees are popping, and the forsythia is bright yellow, as are the daffodils and other plants that survived the winter. The garden is full of robins, another sign of spring. But more important to us is how it affects us on a personal level: namely, the sudden change from heating to cooling our homes and vehicles, and keeping our dogs cool traveling to the dog shows as well as at the shows themselves. I know we have all heard this before, but it bears repeating if it saves even one dog’s life: Dogs overheat very quickly, and death is not far behind. So please take all the precautions necessary to keep your dogs or those entrusted to you safe as we come into the warmer weather. Warmer weather also brings restrictions to flying with your dog. One problem that has presented itself to many of us: When checking in a dog, the check-in clerk rejects the reservation because of the crate size in proportion to the size of the dog. Some airlines want the dog to be able to stand without its head touching the top of the crate. Or to be able to lie down without the dog’s legs hitting the sides of the crate. These rule interpretations are at the check-in clerk’s discretion, so it is best to be prepared and carry a copy of the printed instructions for flying with a dog on the airline of your choice. Some who don't normally fly their dogs, like those attending a national specialty far from home, should be aware that some airlines put travel restrictions on flying a dog during the summer months. That’s an important restriction that should be investigated when choosing an airline. You might have a great history of flying with your dog with no complications, but airlines are getting stricter regarding pet travel, and it’s a good idea to have those airline rules on your person. So as the weather warms and season changes, remember that Planes and Spring are in the air.