For those who really bond with their pets, the prospect of a week, or even a weekend, without their beloved is a mixed joy. But these days, the family pet doesn't have to stay home. There are several guidebooks that list the hotels and motels that accept pets (between 15 percent and 20 percent of lodging facilities do), and there are even travel agencies that specialize in harmonious pet-owner-and-pet trips.

Among pets, dogs are probably the most frequent travelers; they often enhance a trip, providing a different perspective on new places and easy introductions to locals who are out with their dogs. But lately, cats, parakeets, hamsters, and even fish have been spotted in hotels, airports, and train stations making the journey with their owners. These animals aren't likely to tag along on sightseeing vacations, but they can travel comfortably when their owners move, rent a summerhouse, or spend weekends in a second home.

When planning a trip with your pet, it's important to anticipate the stresses of the journey. Pets experience a change of setting differently than people. Cats in particular are creatures of habit; they like things to stay the same: same house, same routine, same people. Since dogs were originally pack animals, they form strong social bonds; they don't mind traveling as long as they're with their owners.

Of course, traveling with pets, like traveling with children, imposes certain limitations. Not only are pets forbidden in American restaurants; they're also not welcome in many art galleries, museums, and stores. Travel plans can suddenly be disrupted; if the weather is much colder or much hotter than expected, for example, a plane won't carry a pet in the baggage compartment. Also, your pet has to be fully housebroken to travel.

If you do decide to take your pet on a trip, make the new surroundings familiar: Bring along a favorite toy, snacks, its regular dish and food, a leash or collar, and anything else that will remind your pet of its usual routine. With more reminders of home, it will feel like it never left.