Only First Class for Izzy!

Izzy's first flight was our first flight with a pet.

We looked into the rules and regulations; got the vet certificate of health that was required and booked our flight.

A couple of days before the flight, I called to "reserve" Izzy's space (also known as our feet space under the seat in front of us). "Sorry, there are no more spaces for pets on this flight," the customer service agent informed me. Not surprisingly, a lengthy conversation ensued. The good news is that there was an option other than rebooking our flights (which was not an option due to time constraints) that would allow us to fly with Izzy. We could upgrade to first class!

Or, at least, we could upgrade to first class for a not so small fee.

I was not too happy. First of all, we had to pay $100 each way for Izzy's flight. Why they charge for bringing a dog that takes no extra space, isn't allowed to bring her own luggage, isn't offered peanuts, let alone her favorite Peanut Butter Kong, and actually counts as one of my carry-ons is beyond me. Second, why there was a limitation on the number of dogs made no sense to me (although maybe it had to do with health issues or with the comfort of other passengers). To the extent there was a limitation for legitimate reasons, then why would an additional dog be allowed IF we upgraded to first class - especially given that we were originally in economy plus, just one or two rows behind first class! Third, shouldn't the airline pay us money? Izzy would and did provide entertainment and enjoyment for other passengers.

The good news is that we got to our destination without any problems (no barking, no crying, and no accidents). Getting back was another story - we were informed that our airline approved crate that worked well enough on the way there, was too big on the return flight and that we would be required to pay almost $100 for a new Sherpa bag we didn't want or need (but has since become a favorite hideout of Izzy's)...

You can add up the expenses - flying with Izzy cost a small fortune. Luckily, she's worth every last cent!