NEW YORK -- We dress them up. We feed them gourmet foods. We treat them like members of the family. So when we have to fly -- whether it be on a beach vacation or to grandma's house, our pets are often a first-class priority.

Bringing animals on flights has become more commonplace in recent years, but some airlines now have strict regulations -- and even stricter prices -- to pack a pooch or carry a cat. But with increasing concern for the welfare of canine and feline alike, there are a growing number of options to transport pets in the friendly skies -- including Pet Airways, a pets-only airline slated for launch in July.

Some airlines can be more pet-friendly than others. Here's a rundown on rules and conditions.

IN THE CABIN

AirTran, Spirit and JetBlue only allow pets to fly in the cabin. That's great for animal lovers who argue that precious pets shouldn't be relegated to the cargo hold, but not so great for owners with medium or large dogs. Pups in the cabin must be able to fit (read: stand up and turn around) in a carrier small enough to slide under the seat in front of you during flight. Generally, this maxes out at about 20 pounds.

US Airways only allows pets in the cabin, but it will permit them as checked baggage for nonstop US Airways Shuttle flights between Boston, New York and Washington, D.C.

JetBlue is the only U.S. airline that allows animals in the cabin on international flights. As a bonus, you'll also earn extra frequent flier points for traveling with your pet.

Most other airlines allow pets in the cabin but limit the number per flight, so it's best to book early and call the airline to tell them you're traveling with a pet as soon as possible. And, as with all air arrangements, restrictions apply. American Airlines, for instance, allows only cats and dogs, and they must remain in a carrier at all times.

For pets traveling in the cabin, AirTran charges the least among big carriers at $69. Most U.S. airlines charge between $100 and $125. Bringing a pet in the cabin on Delta and Northwest flights costs $150.

AS CARGO

For those traveling as checked baggage, Delta and Northwest are the most expensive at $275. The least expensive are Alaska Airlines and Midwest at $100, and Frontier which prices its checked pets fees between $100 and $200. American charges $150.

Frontier only allows pets as checked baggage. Southwest doesn't allow pets at all, except for service animals.

In all cases, the airlines won't charge you a first or second bag fee for your dog on top of the pet fee. But some airlines will count the kennel as a piece of checked luggage, so if you have more than two bags, you might get slammed with another fee.

Aside from the fees, traveling with a pet can sometimes be a frustrating and even scary experience. Although it's rare, a handful of pets get lost or killed each year on airlines.

TIPS

While some incidents can't be avoided, preparation, experts say, is the key to having a safe and uneventful flight. Here are some basic tips to ensure happy trails in the air:

• Let the airline know you are traveling with a pet when you book, so you can make sure there is room for your dog or cat onboard.

• Make sure your pet is fit to fly. Have a veterinarian examine your pet and give a clean bill of health before the flight. Most airlines require health certificates. You may also have to bring along vaccination records.

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