My dog and I have traveled to over 45 countries together. It's not as difficult as you'd expect.

After traveling across more than three continents with my rescue dog, I've learned it's easier than most people think.

William Atek

Three years ago, I rescued my first dog, a 2-year-old Jack Russell-Chihuahua mix found in a taped box in the middle of the road.After he warmed up to me, I was inspired by his courage. I promised this dog, whom I would later name Elko, that I would make up for the lost time and show him the world.Since then, we've been to over three continents and 45 countries together. After countless flights to Paris, ferries across the Mediterranean, and trains throughout Europe, that once scared pup is now braver and arguably a better traveler than I am.When I tell people about my travels with Elko, their reaction is almost always surprise. For one, they can't believe I'm able to bring a dog that's not a service animal on a plane without having to make him fly in cargo.In reality, it's far more doable than most assume.Figuring out all the logistics beforehand allows for seamless travel

The biggest myth I run into is that only service dogs can fly in the cabin of an airplane, and that all other canines must fly in cargo.

William Atek