Although conditions have improved in recent years, shipping your
dog can still be a risky situation. Airlines have a legal responsibility
to keep dogs safe, but accidents in transit can occur. If you take the
proper precautions, however, shipping your dog can be relatively safe.
Before shipping your dog, you will have to purchase a crate. Although some
airlines furnish crates, buying one will insure that it is clean and of
adequate size. Crates are available at pet department stores and should
be sturdily constructed with secure, strong latches that can be easily
opened in an emergency. A broken crate can result in a
frightened dog running loose on a busy airport runway, so be sure
your crate is secure and
has strong handles or grips. It is also suggested that the crate
have a white bottom since
dark surfaces soak up more heat -- the number one killer of dogs
on planes. The crate should be large enough to allow the dog to stand-up,
turn around and to lie down.
There should be adequate ventilation on opposing sides (for better
air circulation) with exterior rims or knobs to prevent the airflow from
being blocked by another object. The bottom should be leak-proof and covered
with plenty of absorbent material. Be sure that there is a generous water
holder inside. The crate should be clearly labeled "LIVE ANIMAL", with
upright arrows. Your name, address and phone number should be securely
attached. Another name and phone number to reach in case of an emergency
is also helpful, especially if you are traveling as well. Before the trip,
allow your dog some time to become used to the crate. Leave it open in
the house with a comfortable cushion and a favorite toy inside. You may
also want to try taking him in his crate for short excursions in the car.
Try to avoid shipping a dog or puppy in the middle of the summer. Although
federal law (and common sense) prohibits airlines from transporting animals
as cargo when the temperature is below 45 degrees F or more than 85 degrees
F for longer than 45 minutes, delays can create a nightmare situation for
your pet. Choose flight times when outside temperatures will be moderate.
It is also wise to avoid shipping an animal during peak travel times like
weekends or holidays. Always choose the shortest flight with the fewest
stopovers or plane changes.
The option of "counter-to-counter" shipping
is sometimes worth the extra expense for the peace of mind it provides,
especially on long or overseas flights. In this case, the dog arrives at
the airport 30 minutes to one hour before the flight and is placed on board
immediately before the flight leaves (he rests in the cargo office until
then). When the plane arrives at the destination, the dog is removed first
thing and is brought to the cargo office (or through customs and then directly
to the office). Instead of the normal 1-2 hour wait, you will receive your
dog in 20 - 30 minutes after the arrival of the flight.
This service may require a reservation, so check with the airline.
Within the United States, the
Department of Agriculture has set down some rules for shipping dogs. A
puppy must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned. Some airlines require
health certificates that are issued within 10 days of the date of departure.
Rabies and vaccination certificates may also be needed. It is your responsibility
to verify your dog's health and to find out what documentation your airline
requires.
International travel is much
more involved. Many countries have a quarantine period. England, for example,
has a 6 month quarantine for dogs! Some countries (and Hawaii!) have a
quarantine situation that may not allow animals to enter ... even in transit!
However, this situation is changing in some of these countries and Hawaii.
Check with the Department of Agriculture
for the latest updates. In addition, if your dog is being shipped internationally,
check with the embassy or consulate of the
country well in advance of your dog's departure date.
Following are some suggestions to help your dog to have a safe, comfortable
trip:
´ Put a doggy pillow or blanket in the crate.
´ Include a favorite toy that smells of home.
´ Tape feeding instructions, along with food, to the
outside of the crate.
´ Do not feed your pet or give water for at least four
hours before departure.
´ Do not tranquilize your dog unless recommended by
your veterinarian.
´ Make sure copies of health and vaccination certificates
are attached to the crate.
Airlines and Requirements: and Services (as of this writing): |
