2. If you are anywhere on the Myan Riviera email me. Even if you are a long way from Isla Mujeres I may be able to put you together with the right people www.bayfirestd@aol.com

3. Ask around for a local animal rescue group or for the whereabouts of the local veterinarian or animal shelter.

4. Take your cat or dog to them to assess the health of the animal and get shots if needed. Puppies under four months do not need rabbi’s shots, older dogs do and a certificate saying they’ve had one, also get a general health certificate.

5. Find a pet carrier. Wal-Mart and Costco sell animal crates in all sizes. When in doubt, get the next size larger, as airlines will refuse if the animal is too large for the crate. If your new pet is small you may be able to take it inside the cabin of the plane, it can go under the seat in front of you. The best way to get around the size regulation in this case is to buy a soft carrier.

6. The next thing to do is to arrange transportation to the airport. Many taxis and vans will not take animals. We use one company for this and they are wonderful and will happily pick you up anywhere in the area. Call Solomon at 998 845 8503, tell him you are transporting an animal. If you find the phone system daunting, ask someone where you are staying to help you.

7. Lastly, get to the airport at least three hours before your flight, and take a cleaning kit with some wet paper towels in a plastic bag, a bag for garbage, a container for water, spare newspaper for the bottom of the crate and a leash or rope so you can walk the animal. There is a nice grassy area outside the airport. Show courtesy and respect to airport employees, it helps a lot. If someone gives you a hard time, politely ask to speak to their superior, sometimes the staff doesn’t know the animals policy and won’t admit it.

8. When you get home give your pet quiet time to settle into his or her new life, sometimes the stress of travel can give them tummy problems, this should pass. Be sure to get to the vet as soon as you can for that first check up. If you mention that your pet is a rescue animal they usually give the first visit for free. If your vet has any questions they can email me and if I don’t know the answer I will know someone who does.