Need advice about flying with a larger dog

[zippeedee]

My best friend moved to CA recently. He just found out that his ex will let him have custody of their dog. It's a Springer, about 60 pounds or so.
I've always heard horror stories about bad things happening to dogs in the cargo hold. He is certified as a therapy dog if that makes any difference.
Does anyone have any advice about the best way to get the dog out to LA?

I just lost my job yesterday but I really don't want to volunteer to drive this dog across the country. I'm a good friend, but not that good!

 

[barkley]

find out the laws in california for an incoming animal from another state (what is required re shots, timeline on most recent exam from a vet...).

find out what is required by the individual airline carrier (may be different from the state requirements).

although the dog is deemed a certified therapy dog-it generaly only gets any type of consideration under this if it is traveling with the person who it is certified under/with.

 

[luvdisney81]

I travelled internationally and CA was one of our stops. I do not remember the airline carrier but I remember we were responsible for sedation, and we opted for that. Shot records and a checkup papers were needed. My dog was a very large dalmation and was fine. A little groggy for the rest of the day, and sluggish the next, but no issues. My dad was able to go to an area during layovers to check on her and drug her up some more if needed. Granted that may be different since 9/11, but ask them if you can do that.