We live in California. We are going to visit family in Wisconsin for 4 weeks Our cockatiel is about 15 weeks old. We have become very attached to him. Would it be okay to take him with us on the plane? It's about a 4 hour flight plus a 2 hour drive to our destination. The airline has told us it is okay, but our main concern is the bird's welfare. If he stays behind, we have family to take care of him while we're gone. If he comes along, our family's Wisconsin home is bird friendly; moreover, he would get a lot of attention if he were to travel with us. If you think it is okay to take him along, we would appreciate some advice to minimize the cockatiel's stress during transit.

Thanks,
Arnold & Jennifer

Dear Arnold and Jennifer,

Your cockatiel will be just fine while flying with you. You mention that the airline has given their okay, but you need to check back with them to find out what type carrier requirements they have. We know several bird people that, when flying, carry birds along and have had no problems.