DM, congrats on the prospective new baby! I've flown with my dog as cargo, and having done that once, don't think I would ever do it again, but that's just my opinion. It was pretty stressful for my little guy. I second the fly out-drive back suggestion, since it's pretty easy to find a pet friendly hotel these days. I've even sneaked one of mine into a hotel that was not pet friendly, but would never suggest that you do that!

KB