AIRLINES AND CAR RENTALS

Travel arrangements for the 1997 Specialty will be handled through Carlson Wagonlit Travel. Contracts have been set up with Northwest, American and Continental Airlines for special convention rates, so we encourage you to make your reservations with Carlson Wagonlit to receive an additional $30 - $75 discount off the lowest applicable fare.

Car rental contracts have been arranged with Budget and National because of the availability of 4-wheel drive vehicles and minivans.

For Reservations contact Jim McCabe or Janice Stewart at Carlson Wagonlit, 1-800-237-3439. Indicate you are with the FCRSA 97 Specialty.

AIR TRAVEL MADE SIMPLE: EXCERPTS FROM ROGER & PEACHIE ORTON

Choosing an Airline: Do they take dogs? Do they have a DIRECT flight to the Minneapolis/St. Paul area? If NO, at least get one with no plane change. If there is no way to get this, request at least 2 hours to layover while planes change.

Day before Departure: Call and confirm yourself and your dog. Unless there is a medical reason, don't sedate your dog, to him it's just another ride. Do feed lightly the day before. Mark your crates prominently: Name, Address, Phone, "LIVE ANIMAL - DO NOT OPEN CRATE," Destination and Dog's name (if you wish). Include the phone number where you will be going! Toys and rugs should be large enough not to be eaten or choked on.

Departure Day: Make sure you air your dog. Arrive at the terminal early, be parked, unloaded and inside the terminal at least one hour prior to departure. After check-in, usually at the passenger check-in counter, firmly request to escort your dog to the area where he/she will await the flight. Do not be intimidated if they say no, be firm but polite and tell them you have a valuable show dog. Stay with your dog as long as possible. Do not leave a choke chain on or leave a leash in the crate. Make sure the crate is TOTALLY secure. Carry the leash with you, do not check it with baggage. Now go to your departure gate and watch the cargo being loaded. Dogs are usually loaded last, but not always. If your boarding is called, inform them you are waiting to see your dog loaded. As soon as you board, stick your head in the cockpit (politely tell the attendant you would like a word with the Captain) and inform the flight crew that they have show dogs on board; they probably already know, but it never hurts to be sure. When the plane lands, go to an empty row of seats above the cargo door and wait to see your dog come off the aircraft. If traveling alone, go directly to the area where your dog will be delivered, usually the baggage claim area. After you have received your dog, then you can arrange for ground transportation.

*****More information about flying your dog can be found at the DogPatch's Flying With Your Dog FAQ*****