When Fido Flies or Rides, His Comfort Rules

Taking the dog along for the ride--and perhaps even a flight--has never been easier, thanks to several new products that make the process easier on the human companion and more enjoyable for the pooch. Products may be available in stores. Prices do not include shipping.

Cream of carriers: Sherpa Pet Trading Co. pioneered soft pet carriers approved by airlines for in-cabin storage. Now founder Gayle Martz, a former flight attendant, has created a lightweight, cream-colored model that keeps Fido more comfy and cooler than do the usual dark-colored versions. The bag has mesh panels for ventilation on three sides and two zippered entrances, and includes an accessory bag.

Soft Cream Classic Sherpa Traveler is $70 for the small size (for dogs up to 16 pounds) and $90 for large (up to 22 pounds) at pet stores. For information, contact Sherpa Pet Trading Co.; telephone (800) 743-7723, Internet https://www.sherpapet.com.

Dog gone gear: Ruffwear, makers of collapsible cloth dog bowls and other portable pet products, has developed something to carry it all in. The W.A.G. (Water and Gear) Bag is a shoulder bag with a place for everything. The zippered 13-by-10-by-7-inch-deep nylon sack has a removable zippered pouch for kibble and a water storage system that dispenses nearly a quart of drinking water directly from the bag’s spigot.

W.A.G. Bag is $65 from Ruffwear; tel. (888) 783-3932, Internet https://www.ruffwear.com.

Backpacking pet: For hands-free transport of small dogs (up to about 18 pounds), consider Samsonite’s new pet backpack, which qualifies as a carry-on pet carrier on most airlines. The 17-by-10 1/2-by-10-inch-deep pack has mesh panels on three sides, roll-down flaps, a full-length pocket with an inside zippered pouch, and a removable padded floor. The bag can be carried as a backpack or shoulder bag.

Samsonite Back Pack Pet Carrier is $89.99 at pet shops. To contact the manufacturer, Designer Products; tel. (800) 469-9416, Internet https://www.designerproducts.com.