Traveling pet needn't have a bumpy ride

DEAR ABBY: I travel a lot in my work with animal protection. Often I'll encounter dogs and cats in distress as soon as I reach the airport. Distracted by their own thoughts, their owners seldom realize that they're upsetting the pets they're carrying through the terminal.

Animal carriers are carelessly swung to and fro, banged against counters, chairs and onto the floor. Cat or dog shoulder bags are dangled at angles that make it impossible for the animal inside to balance. These poor pets can be confused, dizzy and suffer from motion sickness before the flight even takes off.

Traveling is stressful enough for animals. So please, everyone - if you fly with an animal companion, use a sturdy, well-ventilated carrier, preferably one with wheels, that's designed for animals and to fit under your seat. And please, keep the carrier upright and steady.

- Animal Lover in Washington, D.C.

DEAR ANIMAL LOVER: Thank you for the heads-up. In case someone's pet might have other issues while traveling, it's always a good idea to talk about it with a veterinarian before embarking. (Sorry, I couldn't resist.)

DEAR ABBY: A few months ago my mother joined Facebook and I readily accepted her friend request. Mom is new to the Internet.

There are times I have gone online and seen posts in which my mother is arguing with my friends about their lifestyles. I have friends and business contacts from all over the world, and their backgrounds are highly varied, as are their belief and value systems.

I have told mom in private and public discussions that she owes someone an apology, but she shrugs it off.

Am I wrong for asking her to respect my friends, and would you suggest I "unfriend" my mother until she learns proper Internet etiquette?

- Digital Family Man

DEAR FAMILY MAN: Because what your mother is doing could negatively affect your business, you should do exactly that. And quickly!