Choosing a travel carrier for your cat or dog can be a daunting task.

There are species specific models, fancy and plain, ergonomic, soft sided, hard plastic, some you roll, some you can wear as a back pack and some that can double as a designer purse. Then there are the colors - solid, plaid, stylish patterns, animal print and more. Prices can range from $20 to $200!

Of course, the most important criteria for choosing a carrier should be the following:
•    Your pet's comfort and safety
•    Great ventilation
•    Meets the requirements for your mode of travel (in-cabin on a plane, for instance)
•    Washable parts
•    Appropriate weight

My cat Obi is very picky about what he will or will not travel in. He is a big boy - just shy of 15 pounds - and does not enjoy being confined at all. I have even taken him to the vet in a laundry basket (yes, I know this is not safe).

With the possibility of moving cross-country in my not-too-distant-future, I knew it was time to purchase something for Obi to get used to. Since he really dislikes the rectangle variety, my focus has been on odd shapes.

I've been researching and sizing things up for a couple of months and finally settled on one I found in Target! It is a rolling tote carrier by Boots & Barkley. The carrier, which is soft but sturdy, measures 19" L x 11"W x 141/2" H. For airplane travel, simply lay it on its side.

The tote offers easy access to your pet, with zipped doors on both ends (both with exterior pockets and one with an interior leash attachment) and a mesh window with roll up shade on one side. The soft liner can be removed and washed.

The carrier has wheels and a collapsible handle, as well as a secured handle, should you choose to carry rather than roll it.

The price? A very affordable $39.99!

The best part - Obi tried it out yesterday and seemed pleased. We went for a ride in the car and he didn't complain once. He had lots of room and could see me the whole time. When we returned home, he even went back inside for a spell. Emma, our other cat, has also taken a liking to it. I found her sitting inside, giving herself a bath.

Jodi Ziskin, our Traveling with Pets Editor, is a Holistic Wellness Consultant for Animal Companions, specializing in nutrition and proactive health. She is a Certified Pet Nutrition Consultant who also holds a Master of Science degree in Holistic
Nutrition. Through her company Holistic Jodi, LLC, Jodi makes house calls throughout South Florida, helping cats, dogs, birds and rabbits be as healthy and happy as possible.

She and her husband Zach live in Fort Lauderdale, Florida with their two cats, Obi and Emma.

Please feel free to contact Jodi at holisticjodi[at]gmail.com or visit http://www.healthypetcoach.com/