It's no surprise that many of us consider our dogs to be part of the family, so they're coming with us on family trips for the holiday and this summer.

But it's important to keep them safe and comfortable, so the American Kennel Club offers these tips to help you and your dog:

Travel by car

* Prep your pet for a long car trip by taking him on drives, especially if your dog's only travel experience has been trips to the vet.

* Be sure your dog is wearing his collar, which has your cell phone number on it. Take a recent photo of him with you and know where the closest animal shelter is in case he does get lost. Also, bring current vaccination records.

* Secure your dog in a crate, carrier or harness that attaches to the seat belt. Pet supply stores carry a range of sizes that will fit most breeds. No animal should ever ride loose in the bed of a pickup truck, which can lead to serious injuries or death in an accident.

* To prevent ear and eye injuries, do not allow your pooch to stick his head out the car window.

* Stop regularly to allow your dog to relieve himself and take a drink. A familiar toy or bed can also make the trip more comfortable.

* Do not ever leave your pet unattended in the car on hot days. Temperatures can rise quickly, causing heat stroke and other problems even with windows open. Stop immediately if your dog begins to pant excessively, drool or act sluggish and unresponsive.

Travel by plane

* Pet travel policies vary by airline, so check requirements before booking your flight. For a list of carriers and their guides, visit www.akc.org/airtravel/.

* Reservations are required for dogs traveling in-cabin and as excess baggage or cargo. The number of pets allowed on each flight, the dog's age and breed, and crate size all factor into the reservation process.

* Your veterinarian must verify your pet's health and ability to fly no more than 10 days before the date of departure. Schedule a visit a few days before your trip to pick up a health certificate. Also request proof of rabies vaccination and other inoculations, which you may be required to show at various points during your journey.

* Weather can affect your dog's travel. Federal regulations prohibit shipping live animals as excess baggage or cargo if an animal will be exposed to temperatures below 45 degrees or above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, for more than four hours during departure, arrival or while making connections.

* Travel crates should be sturdy; large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around and lie down; and must be airline approved. Remember to have your name and contact information attached.

Hotel tips

* Book your reservations at a pet-friendly hotel. Few things are more stressful on a trip than trying to sneak a dog in and out of the hotel.

* Familiarize yourself with the hotel's policies before you arrive. Typically, hotels that require a deposit will refund your money at checkout after a room inspection. Deposits and fees can vary by number or size of the dogs. Some hotels have size restrictions; be sure to ask before you book your room.

* At check-in, ask where you should walk your dog, and clean up after him.

* Dogs should be confined in a crate when you are not in the room. If housekeepers stop by, they could potentially allow your pooch to escape. Hang the "Do Not Disturb" sign on your door to ensure no one enters your room.

* Cover beds and couches with a blanket before allowing your dog on them. Bring your own blankets and towels - don't use the hotel's supply. And don't bathe your pooch in the hotel tub.

* A noisy or destructive dog should not be left unattended in your room. It's common courtesy to keep your pet as quiet as possible. Try leaving on the television or radio. They are good "company" for your dog, and the noise will also muffle the sounds of people in other rooms or walking in the hall that may put a barker on the alert.

* Clean up any stray hair and spritz the room with air freshener before you leave.