Question about air travel with a dog?

In order for a dog to travel in the cabin of the plane, most of the air lines require that the dog be able to stand in their carrier, at least that's what they say on their web sites. My dog would be able to move around and turn, but it's a little too tall to fully stand in the carrier. How carefully do the airlines check to see that "standing" requirment is met?

I have to take this dog with me and he has to fly in the cabin. He's diabetic and very sensitive. If I leave him in a kennel, he won't eat. And I'm afraid that if I check him, he would just freak out.

They don't really check it at all - All that matters is that the carrier is airline approved and will fit under the seat in front of you. Check with the specific airline you plan to fly to see what their definition of an allowed carrier is.

my mom shiped alot of dogs in the past but never rode with one but from what I've seen with shiping they dont check real close but it is a good thing to have a kennel that will be the right size

There is also a size restriction. I have flown with a miniature dachshund in a carrier under my seat. They have to be able to turn around in the carrier and the carrier has to fit under the seat.

You will be charged for him as an extra piece of luggage even if you haven't exceeded the luggage limit. When I last flew with mine in 2002 it was around $105 for him.

I also recommend getting a letter from your vet stating the diabetic condition so that they don't refuse you.

They almost never check. Don't draw attention to the fact you have a dog. Don't mention it at check in or at the gate. If you ask an agent if it's okay, he or she will then have the power to decide. You don't want to be subject to their whim.

I travel with my dog frequently, she's not able to stand in her carrier, but can also turn around. It really isn't an issue.
I'm also a former flight attendant. I've never known another flight attendant to give a hard time to a passenger with an animal.