July 7, 2005
Bringing your pet to a new country
Tomorrow I fly on JAL from Seoul to New York wih my Scnauzer. He's not huge, but at 20 pounds or so he's too big to sit with us and he's going in cargo. We like JAL and have had good flights with them in the past. Plus they were very confident that they could handle our dog with no problem. The man we spoke to said he's never lost a dog and that they can regulate temperature in the cargo hold. Anyway I had this article written to get me started on learning how to transport a dog safely via an international flight. I'll post more specific details in the future.
Owning a large dog can be rewarding, but when it comes to international transportation, it can be a hassle. Here are a few tips on how to prepare before, during and after travel with your pet:
Call your destination to review their pet policy and check the the airline/transport system regulations before leaving. Some countries require official USDA certification before an animal is allowed over the border. If so, have your veterinarian complete and sign a stamped form (27 dollars). Ask your vet if you have any health concerns or medication needs.
A big dog can easily overheat. Thus, many airlines won't take your pooch on a flight in summer during daytime hours in case of a delay, except flights leaving between 9 pm and 6 am. Do NOT leave the dog for more than a minute or two in the car.
Provide plenty of water, and if you don't have direct access to the dog, make sure personell can replenish it. Feed and walk them before the trip; pack just enough food to get them there.
Purchase your kennel in advance, and let the dog get used to it. It might be beneficial to take them for a few drives in the kennel so that when the day comes, they'll be prepared and may actually eagerly enter the carrier.
Bring a blanket for laying on the bed/floor to keep hair off furniture. Taking all of the dog's grooming supplies and a roller to remove fur from surfaces is a good idea.
Look into local leash laws. Try to keep your dog leashed at all times, since this will be an unfamiliar environment for them. Create a tag with your location to attach along with your pet's normal id tags.
These tips should create a safer environment for your doggie, and ease the experience for you.
Sources cited:
http://www.pettravel.com/passportnew.cfm
http://www.lufkindailynews.com/travel/content/shared/travel/aid/packpets.html
http://www.lufkindailynews.com/travel/content/shared/travel/aid/pettravel.html
Most likely you could take them in the passenger cabin but each airline will ahve its own rules.
Posted by: James Trotta at September 9, 1926 11:45 AMSo, if I wanted to take my cats, who are way smaller than 20 pounds, I could have them sit with us? If not, I am assuming the same details would apply to them? I would be transporting them from Colombia to Kentucky. Pounciekitten
Posted by: pounciekitten at July 7, 2005 11:44 PM