There is actually a new airline called Pet Airways just for dogs and cats. Pets are safely kenneled in the main cabin of the plane, so they have the comfort of heating/air conditioning and are constantly being monitored by flight attendants. It's a much safer way for a pet to fly than being in the cargo hold.
The cities they fly to are limited right now, but Chicago and Denver are on the list. The only problem you might have is booking a reservation -- the company seems to have gained popularity very quickly and I heard somewhere that flights must be booked months in advance. It's worth looking into though.
Pet Airways is a pet airline
If that doesn't work maybe you could fly there and fly back with the dog, if it is small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat then you wouldn't have to put the pup underneath the plane. I know people do it all the time but personally I wouldn't want to do that with my animal (put it in the cargo area). I'd be a nervous wreck, and the dog probably would be too.
Good luck getting your puppy safe and sound
