Final answer:
A formal inspection of the flight should take place at least 48 hours before travel or at the departure gate.
Step-by-step explanation:
A formal inspection of the flight should take place at least 48 hours before travel or at the departure gate. This is required by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and is part of the regulations regarding the documentation of the animal's health, behavior, and training. Airlines may ask for forms attesting to these aspects of the animal's condition.