Airline Travel Tips for Pet Travel

Airline Travel Tips

Animals traveling Internationally should have a pet microchip that meets ISO standards 11784/11785. This is a 15 digit non-encrypted microchip that operates at 134.2kHz.
     The microchip number should appear on all Veterinary and Vaccination Certificates, and be the same number as on those certificates. The microchip should meet the ISO standards or the owner must provide a compatible reader.
     Millions of animals travel safely aboard aircraft every year. Airline personnel make every effort to handle these animals with the care they deserve. This pamphlet is designed to assist you in safely transporting your pet. Please keep in mind that each airline has its own guidelines, and it is important to notify an airline about your pet travel plans as soon as possible.
     The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) sets and enforces regulations for the transportation of live animals. These regulations apply to you, the shipper, as well as to the airlines. If you decide to transport your dog or cat by air, there are some points to check for compliance with applicable laws, and to assure the safest and most comfortable trip for your pet.

HOW TO SHIP BY AIR

If you cannot accompany your pet, or they are too large to fly in the cabin, dogs and cats typically are transported as cargo or as accompanied baggage. Sometimes these terms create a false impression, but both describe humane means of shipping animals. What is important to know is that you may only transport your pet as accompanied baggage if you are a passenger traveling on the same flight as your pet. If flying cargo, the animal may travel unaccompanied, either through the regular cargo channels or through a especially expedited delivery service that many airlines have developed. Many airline cargo departments have specialists in the movement of animals who can assist you with answers to your questions. They are trained to handle your pet with care and experience.
     Animals in the cargo systems are transported in the same pressurized holds as those in the checked baggage system. Some airlines allow passengers to carry their pets in the cabin of a plane if the animals are capable of fitting under the passenger's seat. Carry-on pets are not regulated under the Animal Welfare Act. For animals other than dogs or cats, contact the airline for their acceptance policy. You can also send us an email at info@pettravel.com or post an inquiry on our pet travel blog.

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER WHEN YOUR ANIMAL TRAVELS

Is your pet old enough?
The USDA says that your animal must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned before traveling with the airlines.

Which flights are easier on your pet?
Whenever possible, book a direct, nonstop flight and avoid holiday or weekend travel. Consider schedules that minimize temperature extremes. For example, try to avoid travel during excessively hot or cold periods. During periods of excessive cold, an Acclimation Certificate may be required. Morning or evening flights are preferable during the summer. In the cargo system, it is possible to reserve space on a specific flight by paying for either priority or the special expedited delivery service.

Is your pet healthy?Check with your veterinarian to be sure that your animal is fit to travel. Some species such as pug-nosed dogs (e.g., Boxers, Boston Terriers) - simply do not fly well, because they can have difficulty breathing even under normal conditions. You will need a Airline Veterinary Health Certificate in order to comply with the rules of most airlines, as well as state and federal rules. Your veterinarian will be able to supply this. Most airlines ask that it be issued no more than seven to ten days before departure. Be sure to check with the airline to get the exact amount of time they require before your pet's trip.

Use of Tranquilizers
Sedation is not advised since the effects of tranquilizers on animals at higher altitudes are unpredictable. The decision to prescribe a tranquilizer for your pet should be made by your veterinarian. If you believe some form of sedation might be helpful, be sure to obtain and follow a veterinarian's advice.

PREPARE IN ADVANCE

Do you have the right crate?
You and the airlines must follow IATA regulations on the size of crate for your pet. The crate must be sturdy, properly ventilated and large enough that the animal may freely stand, turn around, and lie down.
     The kennel must close securely with a mechanism that requires no special tools to operate. IATA compliant pet cargo crates are available in 7 sizes in the Pet Travel Store. Remember to check with the airline when in doubt, because the USDA assigns full responsibility for accepting the proper kennel to the airline. Crate must be provided with spacers to ensure ventilation openings are not blocked by adjoining kennels or cargo.
     Is your animal comfortable in the cargo crate? As far in advance of the trip as possible, let your pet get to know the crate. Veterinarians recommend leaving it open in the house with an old sock or other familiar object inside, so that your pet will spend time in the kennel. Start with just the bottom half of the kennel available to your pet. As they become accustomed to being inside, assemble the top half and leave the door open. It is important for your dog or cat to be as relaxed as possible during the flight and getting your pet accustomed to the crate is crucial in making that happen.

When your pet travels, the kennel should:

• Clearly display your name and address;
• Use arrows or other markings (Live Animal Stickers) indicating the top of the kennel
• Include food and water dishes (both empty) secured inside the kennel and accessible from outside
• Show a food and water schedule and, if any food is necessary, include an ample supply in a bag attached to the outside of the kennel
• Contain no more than one adult dog or cat (some airlines allow two puppies or kittens, younger than six months and under 20lbs. each)
• Contain crate pet pads
• Display labels on top and on at least one side with the words LIVE ANIMALS printed in 1-inch high letters. You can find them in our crate accessory kits.

Have you made advance arrangements for your pet?

At the time you book your trip, call the reservations number of the airline and tell them that you will be traveling with an animal. You cannot book your pet'reservation online. Be sure to reconfirm with the airline 24-48 hours before departure that you will be bringing an animal. If you are shipping your pet as cargo and will be accompanying your pet on the same flight, notice of 24-48 hours should also be given to the airline. This is important, since each airplane can transport only a limited number of animals.
     If you cannot accompany your pet, you need to contact the cargo department of the airline to make arrangements for transport
     Please note that advance arrangements do not guarantee that your animal will travel on a specific flight. To be as humane as possible, airlines reserve the right to refuse to handle an animal for such reasons as illness or poor kenneling of the animal, or extreme temperatures at origin, transfer or destination airports.

Traveling outside the United States?
If you are flying to a foreign country or Hawaii, be sure to find out whether there are quarantine or other health requirements at the destination. For example, rules in the United Kingdom are very strict. It is essential to comply with such requirements and sometimes it requires attention as much as 6 months prior to travel. Instructions and forms required for international travel can be found in the Pet Travel Store.

READY FOR FLIGHT

Acceptance of Animals.
Because they care about animals, no airline will guarantee acceptance of an animal it has not seen. This is to protect both the animal and the airline.
     Since an airline cannot transport an animal that is violent or dangerous, important considerations for acceptance of animals include health and disposition of the animal. A health certificate will help to minimize questions. An airline must also determine whether all paperwork is in order and that the pet crate meets all requirements.

Food and Water.USDA requires that your pet be offered food and water within four hours before check-in with the airline. Do not overfeed your pet at this time. A full stomach is not good for a traveling pet. When you check in with the airline, you must certify with a signature the time when your pet was last offered food and water. (Do not leave food or water in the dish in the kennel; it will only spill and make travel unpleasant for your animal.)

Arrival and Check-In.
Get to the airport with plenty of time to spare so that there will be no rush. If your animal is traveling as excess baggage or by the special expedited delivery service, check-in will usually be at the passenger terminal. If you are sending your pet through the cargo system, you will need to go to the air freight terminal, which is located in a separate part of the airport. Be sure to check with your airline for the acceptance cutoff time for your flight. Note: by regulation, an animal may be tendered no more than four hours before a flight time (six hours by special arrangement).
   Finally, airlines must assure that facilities are able to handle animals at the airports of transfer or final destination. USDA has set clear guidelines on allowable temperature limits for animal-holding areas, which airlines must obey.

INTERLINE TRANSFER OF ANIMALS

When pets travel as accompanied baggage, it is unlikely that one airline can check an animal through from its own system to a final destination served by another airline. Since each airline cares about and is responsible for the animals it accepts, airline agents will need to inspect the animal at the time of check-in. On a trip involving more than one airline, you will need to claim the animal at the connecting stop where you change airlines and check in your pet with the agents at the new airline.     Be sure to plan adequate time for this transfer.
   However, when your pet travels in the cargo system, an interline transfer is not possible unless airlines have a contracted arrangement between each other. this is why it is important to keep your pet on the same airline for the entire route. 
  

HELPFUL TIPS

• It is a good idea to carry a leash with you on a trip so that you may walk your pet before check-in and after arrival. (Do not keep the leash with the animal, either inside or attached to the outside of the kennel.)
• Do not take your pet out of its kennel inside the airport. In keeping with airport regulations and out of courtesy for other passengers, you should let your pet out only after you leave the terminal building.
• You should clearly mark the kennel with your pet's name.

In addition to showing your name and address, as required by USDA, you must mark the kennel with the telephone number of a person at the destination who can be contacted about your pet. This is especially important if you are sending your animal unaccompanied through the cargo system, because you will not be at the airport to claim your pet upon arrival. It may be helpful to contact a pet travel service to handle an unaccompanied shipment, since these services manage pick-up and delivery and can advise on quarantine requirements for international travel. If your animal is traveling in the cargo system, remember that after arriving at their destination, there is a processing period for cargo, which may vary by airline and airport. If you have questions, be sure to contact your airline.

Traveling by Train

United States:
Amtrak does not allow pets onboard its trains with the exception of service animals.
Europe
     Pets are welcome on most trains in Europe including France, Germany and Italy.
In most cases, small dogs travel free or at a minimal charge, and large dogs travel at half the 2nd class fare, even if traveling with passengers in 1st class; this charge is payable directly to the conductor.
     Often, dogs are required to be kept in a traveling container or must wear a muzzle and a leash. Dogs in a carrier may travel at a minimal cost, depending on the country. A small domestic animal in a carrier can travel free of charge. Seeing Eye Dogs travel free of charge.
Dogs are allowed on trains as long as the other passengers sharing the car/compartment agree to it. A dog is allowed in a sleeper car only if it is fully occupied by the owner (i.e. two passengers with a dog in a double).
     Great Britain will allow small pets (2 per person) which must be leashed or carried in a secure pet carrier.
     On ScotRail, Scotland's rail system, pets can travel in sleeper cars only subject to a cleaning charge.

     No pet or animal, with the exception of registered assistance dogs, may be taken on the Eurostar.

To purchase your travel documents, or for further information you can visit the Rail Europe web site at: http://www.raileurope.com
You should always double check all rules locally.

Thanks pettravel!

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!

Pet Travel: Airline Pet Cargo Incident Reporting

Pet Travel: Airline Pet Cargo Incident Reporting

It appears that the deaths of seven puppies in the cargo hold of an American Airlines jet earlier this month has incited a request from 3 senators, Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) and Joseph Lieberman (I-Conn.), to clarify the word “animal” in congressional statutes when it comes to reporting pet incidents by airlines. In a letter to Ray LaHood, Secretary of the US Department of Transportation, the Senators state that it was the original intent of the statute to include commercially bred and show dogs as being included as an animal that was to be reported should a death or injury occur in transport, not just an animal that was kept as a pet. Not reporting incidents involving breeder puppies and show dogs would unrealistically skew airline safety records, making it harder for people to make informed decisions about airline cargo travel.

Although the deaths reported by the airlines monthly are single digit, we must point out that the Department of Transportation estimates that over 2 million pets and live animals are shipped each year. The numbers most commonly reported are cumulative (they are not stated as such, I might add). Losing an animal is bad press for an airline, and there are many airlines that treat their furry travelers as very special pet cargo. Read the Air Travel Consumer Report, select a month, and scroll down to the last report for the Animal Incident Report.

 Certainly, reporting incidents regarding ALL animals under the responsibility of the airline will encourage even more empasis on safety on the part of the airlines. -

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!

Airline Pet Travel in Cargo

Pet Travel: How to Help Keep Your Pet Safe When Traveling Air Cargo   

People need to travel with a pet for many reasons: leisure, business, and relocation to name a few. Although all of us would like to be able to fly with their pet in the cabin of an airplane, this is not possible if your pet is over 11 inches tall or 15 pounds in weight. The only option left is for your pet to travel in the cargo hold. Despite all the fears about pet cargo travel, millions of pets are shipped every year with relatively few incidents. Granted, any incident is serious when it comes to our pets, but many are avoidable. There are things you can do to maximize your pet’s safety when traveling air cargo.

Make sure your pet is healthy: A trip to the veterinarian prior to pet air travel is a very good idea. Unhealthy or very skiddish pets should not be subjected to the stress of travel. If you have to travel, leave them at home and have a pet sitter or relative care for them.

Choose your route carefully: If possible, select an airline that offers a non-stop route to your destination. It is always more stressful for a pet to be transferred to another plane. Also remember that airlines do not interline pets. If you are switching to another airline during stopovers, you will have to pick up and recheck your pet. This can be helpful during a long trip, but be sure and give yourself plenty of time between flights to walk and hydrate your pet. Additionally, if you are on an international flight and change airlines, you must pass customs and thus meet all appropriate requirements for entry to that country.

Purchase a good pet crate: IATA regulations require a sturdy pet crate with adequate ventilation, waterproof bottom, spring locked door, disabled wheels, and no handles (except for smaller crates).

Size the crate generously: The airline rules for pet air travel require that your pet be able to stand up

Use metal hardware! More and more airlines are requiring metal hardware instead of plastic fasteners to secure both halves of the crate. We strongly suggest that you take that extra step whether your airline requires it or not.

Cable tie the door: Adding cable ties to the door will add an extra level of protection for your pet. Although spring locks are hard to get open, it has happened, and the results can be serious.

Identification must be present and visible: Live Animal and Directional Stickers are mandatory. In addition, you should attach the following information to your crate in a plastic sleeve: name of pet, your name and cell phone number, any medical considerations, temperament issues (if any), and a picture of your pet. You can also include your pet’s veterinary information.

Adequate Hydration: Your pet should be offered hydration prior to going to the airport. Your pet’s crate bowl [link to crate crock] should be filled and frozen prior to attaching it to the crate.

No tranquilizing: Tranquilizing a pet prior to pet cargo travel is very dangerous. Many airlines will not accept a pet who has been tranquilized. It is important that a pet's breathing is not affected during flight and this is a common side effect in tranquilizers. Better to use an all natural pet calmer.

Know your airline's pet policy: Print a copy of the policy and bring it with you should you have any problems at the check in desk or cargo area.

Your pet will not be stacked on top of suitcases. Airlines have special places for pets so that they will be protected from cargo and luggage. It is temperature controlled and pressurized just like the cabin.

Be proactive! If you are traveling with your pet, the day of travel, tell the ticket agent that you would like to get confirmation that your pet has been loaded in the plane if you cannot see the baggage handlers load the plane prior to boarding yourself. Inform the captain (or have the crew inform the captain) that there is a live animal in the hold and to be sure to monitor the temperature and pressure at all times.

Relax and enjoy your flight: Remember that airline employees who handle your pet have been trained to do so. Many of the airlines have pet programs to attract your business. They are required to report all pet travel incidents in cargo to the Department of Transportation. It is to their best interest to treat your pet with care and safety in mind.

Many of the stories that we hear about incidents during pet air travel could have been prevented had the pet owner had taken the necessary precautions for their pet's safety. Give your pet the best chance to arrive safely by taking these steps in advance of traveling in the cargo hold.

More information on pet cargo travel in our blog.

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!

Therapy Animals

 

Travel with Therapy Animals and Comfort Animals:

Comfort and Animal Animals differ from Medically Certified Service Animals because Service Animals fall under the protective rules as established by the American Disabilities Act, (ADA) Air Carrier Access Act, and the United States Department of Transportation (DOT). Because their services help those with physical disabilities, they may accompany the people they serve in places where other animals would not be permitted such as in the cabin of an aircraft even when they exceed carry on requirements. Find more information on traveling with a service animal.

Comfort Animals are used in Animal Assisted Therapy to improve the physical, social, emotional and cognitive condition of the patient. Most Comfort Animals are dogs and cats, however this therapy can also include parrots, horses, elephants, lizards, and monkeys. The DOT is currently considering the addition of pigs to the list. These pet animals are now recognized as providing a valuable service to the elderly and to others with a medical disability and have recently reached the status of Service Animals.

When you travel with Comfort Animals (or Therapy Animals), the following airlines have indicated that they will honor the proper documentation on a case by case basis: Domestic - Air Tran Airways, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest, Spirit Airlines, United, US Airways, and Virgin America. You will need to contact the airline and confirm that they will allow your pet on your route. Always remember, however, that there are countries that mandate that your pet arrive as manifest cargo including comfort and service animals.

A clarification has been issued as to policy for comfort animals traveling on Air Canada.

International - Air France, British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic

Other foreign carriers may also follow the new rules, but they are not obligated to do so.

Note: Passengers intending to travel to the United Kingdom with emotional support animals need to arrange pre-approval clearance and pay a processing fee. You will need to contact the appropriate reception center.
     The key to acceptance is a strongly worded letter from a medical professional stating that the well being of the pet's owner is at risk if they are separated from their pet. The most common reason is mental anxiety or depression and a letter from a psychiatrist will generally suffice. However, individuals with a heart condition may get a letter from their physician stating that the pet calms the pet owner and therefore reduces the risk of a stroke or heart attack.

Recent research suggests that people with psychiatric disabilities can benefit significantly from assistive animals, too. Emotional support animals have been proven extremely effective at ameliorating the symptoms of these disabilities, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, by providing therapeutic nurture and support.

THERAPY ANIMAL DEFINITION

A THERAPY animal is normally a dog that has been obedience trained and screened for its ability to interact favorably with humans and other animals. The primary purpose of a therapy dog is to visit people in hospitals, care homes and retirement centers who enjoy being visited by a friendly dog. They are generally handled by volunteers who both train the animals and then take them on visitations.

We offer a document that fully explains the rules regarding air pet travel with Comfort Animals. It also explains the rules for taking Comfort Animal into a rabies free country such as the UK or Hawaii.

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!

New Orleans Pet Expo- September 28, 2013

Pet friendly Napa Valley

PET FRIENDLY NAPA VALLEY is up! Take a look! If you ever think of going to Napa Valley with your dog - check out the pet friendly wineries. There are ALOT OF THEM.  I made a page of pet friendly wineries - the ones with the best reviews,  but there are more, at least 100.

International Pet Travel

Will my pet be quarantined?

The countries of the world have been divided into three classifications that relate to pets: rabies free countries, third countries (low incidence of rabies) and countries with high incidence of rabies. Third Countries include all the countries of the European Union (EU) except the United Kingdom which is rabies free. The United States, Canada, Mexico are also considered third countries.

Before your travel, it is important that you are aware of the classification of your country of origin (where you begin your travels) and the rabies classification of the destination country (where you end your trip). If you have layovers on your trip, you need to be aware of quarantine requirements of countries in which you clear customs. The intelligent traveler will be able to avoid quarantine requirements of rabies free countries by planning in advance.

CLICK EACH CATEGORY FOR COUNTRIES IN THAT CATEGORY

• Rabies Free Countries
• Third Countries
• High Incidence of Rabies Countries

International Pet Travel - Travel to and from Countries with Same and Different Classifications: 


From a RABIES FREE COUNTRY to a ANY OTHER COUNTRY (except certain other RABIES FREE COUNTRIES):
You will be able to enter with minimal paperwork and without quarantine or a Blood Titer test although some countries will require an import permit. There may restrictions and perhaps possible quarantine when returning.

From one THIRD COUNTRY to another THIRD COUNTRY:
      Your pet must have resided in a THIRD COUNTRY for a minimum of six (6) months prior to your travel date. (4 months if the pet was born in the THIRD COUNTRY) Some countries will require a microchip and the proper veterinary certificate for the country that you are entering. Your dog or cat rabies vaccinations must be current. There are a limited number of these THIRD COUNTRIES that also require an import permit for entry. Check our pet passport section for more details. For Veterinary Certificates for almost 240 countries worldwide.

From a THIRD COUNTRY to a EU COUNTRY:
     Your pet must have resided in a THIRD COUNTRY for a minimum of six (6) months prior to your travel (4 months if the pet was born in the THIRD COUNTRY). You will need a 15 digit ISO pet microchip for all EU countries and the Annex II Veterinary Certificate for the country that you are entering. Your dog or cat's rabies vaccinations must be current. Check our pet passport section for more details. Find individual country veterinary certificates for nearly 240 countries worldwide, visit the Pet Travel Store.

From a THIRD COUNTRY to a RABIES FREE COUNTRY:
     If you are traveling from a THIRD COUNTRY to a RABIES FREE country, a Blood Titer test, microchip as well as the proper pet passport for the destination country is required. There is always a waiting period from the time you have the Blood Titer test until the time you enter the RABIES FREE country of between 120 days and 180 days. If your schedule does not allow for a waiting

period, quarantine will be imposed at the destination country.

From a THIRD COUNTRY to a COUNTRY WITH A HIGH INCIDENCE OF RABIES:
     You can also travel to a COUNTRY WITH A HIGH INCIDENCE OF RABIES from a THIRD COUNTRY with only the proper pet passport and sometimes an import permit. These countries do not require a Blood Titer test and most do not require a microchip. You may have a problem returning to a THIRD COUNTRY or a RABIES FREE COUNTRY. SEE NEXT PARAGRAPH

From a COUNTRY WITH A HIGH INCIDENCE OF RABIES to a THIRD COUNTRY:
     With the exception of the United States and Canada and a handful of other countries, anytime you travel from a country with a HIGH INCIDENCE OF RABIES to a THIRD COUNTRY, a Blood Titer test will be required, your pet must be microchipped and you will need the proper pet passport forms for that country. For individual country veterinary certificates for over 240 countries, visit the Pet Travel Store.

     From a COUNTRY WITH HIGH INCIDENCE OF RABIES to another COUNTRY WITH A HIGH INCIDENCE OF RABIES:
In most cases you will need only the proper pet passport forms and sometimes an import permit.

     Travel from a COUNTRY WITH A HIGH INCIDENCE OF RABIES to certain RABIES

FREE COUNTRIES:
     Some rabies free countries such as Australia will not permit pets from countries with a high incidence of rabies to enter. The EU countries will require a Blood Titer Test three months prior to entry in order to avoid quarantine. There are several countries where quarantine is unavoidable unless you are entering from a RABIES FREE COUNTRY.

NOTE: the above rules apply to 95% of travel between countries with a pet. Be sure to check the pet immigration information section of PetTravel.com before travel. If you have questions please post to our blog. We respond within 24 hours. The rules only apply to dogs, cats, and ferrets who are accompanied by their owners. Different rules apply for unaccompanied pets.

Thanks pettravel.com!

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!

Pet Travel in Europe

Pet Travel - Europe

The Pet Scheme

Beginning January 1, 2000, pets traveling from the United States and Canada will no longer be subject to quarantine if the proper procedures are followed.

The information below is the current situation for travel to Great Britain.

For more than 100 years, the United Kingdom has had a strictly enforced quarantine program in effect. Bring in a dog, cat, guinea pig or rabbit, and they had to spend six months in one of 80 quarantine kennels in Great Britain, with virtually no exercise and with only the kennels' contracted veterinarians to check them out. There were no uniform statutes governing these kennels--the kennel owners voluntarily agreed to provide respectable care, but this often was lacking.

"My husband was in the Foreign Service, so this meant that each time we returned to England from a post our basset hound had to go through that awful quarantine," says Lady Mary Fretwell. "Over the years, we could see how the quarantine conditions got worse and worse."

The final straw came in 1987, when Lady Mary and Sir John Fretwell returned to England from their final post in Paris. "We came back with our basset hound," Lady Fretwell says, "and it was a terrible quarantine experience. Our beloved Bertie, our favorite of all the bassets we've had over the years, was a different dog after this horrible experience, and died soon afterwards. This pushed us into doing something about the quarantine situation in the UK."
The result was an organization called "Passports for Pets," and because of the untiring efforts by the Fretwells and 10,000 members and many volunteers who pushed for changes in the pet entry system, there is now in place a specific method of bringing cats and dogs into the UK without going through quarantine (see accompanying story).

On February 28, 2000, the first phase of the Pet Travel Scheme was implemented and the first pets arrived at Folkestone via the Eurotunnel Shuttle Service and Ferries. Since that time, more than 10,000 pets from designated European Union countries have come into the United Kingdom without quarantine and with surprisingly few problems.

There are two parts to PETS, one which guarantees and certifies that the pet has had the rabies vaccine and that it shows no signs of rabies, and the other certification that says that the pet has been treated for ticks and parasites between 24 and 48 hours before arriving in the UK. Cats and dogs that travel to Britain must have both official certifications before they will be allowed in the country.
As of January, 2011, pets entering the UK from countries with a low incidence of rabies must get a microchip, then a vaccination at least 21 days prior to entering the UK. An Annex II form completed by your veterinarian and endorsed by the government veterinarian of your country is required. The UK is making it must easier for pets to travel to their country. A lot has changed since the old days of months and months in quarantine.

Be sure to visit PetTravel.com for more information on pet travel in Europe and bringing your pet to Great Britain.

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!

Flying With Pets

Airline Pet Policies

Flying with pets can be challenging. The first thing you need to do when flying with your dog, cat or other pet is to find airlines that serve your origination and destination airports and check their pet policies. Many airlines will accept your dog or cat, but each airline will differ in the services they offer. Will the airline allow your dog or cat to fly in the cabin with you? What are the restrictions? Will your pet need to travel in the airline cargo hold? Find answers to all your questions below when you click the down arrow next to the GO button and find cat and dog airline pet policies for over 160 airlines!

Another option for pet travel is by private charter. Although this is more expensive than commercial airlines, pets will fly in the cabin with their owners in luxury, regardless of their size.

Click the down arrow below for  airline pet policies for over 160 airlines!

Aegean Airlines Aer Arann Airlines Aer Lingus Aeroflot Aerolineas Argentina Aeromexico AeroSvit Ukranian Airlines Air Algerie Air Arabia Air Baltic Air Berlin Air Calin Air Canada Air Caraibes Air China Air Europa Air France Air India Air Jamaica Air Malawi Air Malta Air New Zealand Air Pacific Air Portugal Air Tahiti Nui Air Transat AirAsia AirTran Airways Alaska Airlines Alitalia Airlines All Nippon Airways Allegiant Airlines AMC Air Mobility Command America West Airlines American ANA Arik Airlines Asiana Airlines Atlas Air Austrian Airlines Avianca Airlines Avior Airlines Bangkok Airways BMI Airlines British Airways Brussels Airlines Bulgaria Air Cape Air Caribbean Air Cathay Pacific Cayman Airways Cebu Pacific China Airlines China Eastern Airlines China Southern Airlines Colombian Air Condor Airlines Continental Copa Airlines CorsairFly Croatia Airlines Cubana Airlines Cypress Airways Czech Airlines Delta Dutch Antilles Express EasyJet Airlines Edelweiss Air Egypt Air El Al Airlines Emirates Airlines Etihad Airways Eva Airways Finnair First Air Flybe Airlines Frontier Airlines Garuda Indonesia Airlines Germanwings Great Lakes Airlines Gulf Air Gulfstream Hainan Air Hawaiian Airlines Horizon Air Houston Express Iberia Airlines Iceland Air InselAir Interjet Japan Airlines Jet Airways JetBlue Airways Kenya Airways Kingfisher Airlines KLM Airlines Korean Airlines Kulula Airlines Kuwait Airways Lan Chile Lan Ecuador Lan Peru Liat Airline LOT Polish Airlines Lufthansa Airlines Malaysia Airlines Malev Hungarian Airlines Meridiana Airlines MetJet Mexicana Airlines Middle East Airlines Midwest Monarch Airlines Mongolian Airlines Northwest Norwegian Air Shuttle Oman Air Patriot Air Pegasus Airlines PetAirways Philippine Air Portugalia Airline PGA Qantas Qatar Airways Royal Air Maroc Royal Jordanian Airlines RyanAir S7 Airlines Sansa Airlines SAS Scandinavian Airlines Sata Air Acores Saudi Airlines ScotAirways Singapore Airlines SkyEurope Airlines SkyWest Airlines South African Southwest SpanAir SpiceJet Spirit SriLankan Airlines Sun Country Swiss International Airlines Taca Airlines TAM Brazilian Airlines TAP Air Portugal Tarom Airlines Thai Airways Thomson Airways Transaero Airlines Transavia Airlines Tunisair Turkish Airlines United Ural Airlines US Airways USA 3000 Uzbekistan Airways Varig SA Airlines Vietnam Airlines VIM Airlines Virgin America Airlines Virgin Atlantic Airways Virgin Australia Vision Airlines Volaris Vueling Airlines WestJet Airlines Wizz Air XL Airways France Yellow Air Taxi Zambezi Airlines Zest Airways

FLYING WITH PETS

There are basically 3 ways that pets can travel in a commercial airplane: in-cabin, checked baggage and manifest cargo. When traveling in the cabin, pets must fly with an adult passenger and fit in an airline compliant carrier for pets which will be stowed under the seat in front of the passenger. If your pet is accompanied by a traveling passenger and is too big to travel in the cabin or is an animal other than a cat or dog (in most cases), it can be transported as checked baggage if your airline offers this service. Lastly, if your pet is very large or is traveling unaccompanied or your destination country requires it, it will travel as manifest cargo. Your pet will travel in the cargo hold of the airline when flying both as checked baggage or manifest cargo. Below is more helpful information on flying with pets.

 

More information about flying with pets.

 

YOU CAN HELP US:
Please report any information which would help others who are traveling with their pet to info@PetTravel.com or post on our blog or forum.

 

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!

Pet Microchip Details

Pet Microchip Details

Datamars Microfindr™ Slim Pet Microchip FDB-X Transponder ISO Standard 11784

Buy a Datamars Microfindr™ Slim 15 digit ISO microchip
Why is it important to microchip your dog or cat?
The future of microchipping is here. The Datamars Microfindr™ Slim 15 digit microchip has become the standard for traveling dogs, cats, feretts horses and other animals all over the world. A microchip meeting ISO standards 11784 operating at 134.2 kHz is required in all countries that require a chip, and soon will be used worldwide in all countries that require microchipping. That list is growing every year.

The uses for the Microfindr™ Slim microchip from Datamars reach far beyond traveling to foreign borders, however. Identification Technology is crucial in the pet world whether it involves competition, shelter, or animal control. As our pets cannot speak for themselves, it is our obligation as owners to protect them should they get lost. Microchipping allows for identification that cannot be removed or misplaced. Better yet, the microchip is readable beyond the life of the pet ensuring that a dog, cat, or horse that needs to be identified for whatever reason, will be.

Register your pet!

Included free with every one of our registered microchips is registration to PetLink, a 24/7/365, international pet recovery service. If your cat or dog microchip is found through scanning, then your pet can be reported on www.petlink.net or by calling 1-877-PETLINK. Once your owner's information is found, PetLink will contact you with information as to where to pick up your cat or dog. How reassuring is it that your precious companion will have the best chance of being reunited with you? With all of the challenges of traveling, certainly this affords the pet owner the greatest peace of mind.

How is a microchip inserted in my pet?

Microchips should be implanted under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. Properly inserted, it is a painless and gentle procedure for your cat or dog.
The Datamars Microfindr™ Slim microchip is preloaded into their special, ergonomic "No Return Click" syringe. With the included 14 gauge needle and the new slim chip, insertion is gentle and painless. An audible click will sound when the microchip has been implanted, and, when fully depressed, the injector is locked and blocked, preventing the chip from being retracted by suction when the needle is withdrawn. This is a significant improvement to alternative equipment being used to insert microchips today, and it is only available from Datamars!
The sterile pack has colored indication (yellow) to confirm it has been sterilized with Ethylene Oxide. Each microchip contains an individual, preprogrammed code consisting of an animal identification code that is in accordance with ISO Standard 11784. The code is unique worldwide, is permanent, and cannot be altered.

Inside its bio polymer casing, the pet microchip contains an antenna coil and a chip which requires no battery. The bio polymer casing has much more tensile strength than glass used in other microchips and can be read whether an animal is stationery or in motion.

Product Advantages

Here are some of the advantages of the Datamars Microfindr™ Slim microchip:

• Totally passive, no battery
• Optimized for animal implantation
• Permanent, 15 numeric digits code
• Identification code in accordance with ISO Standard 11784
• 6 adhesive bar coded labels
• Sterilized by EtO gas
• Extremely durable

Recommended Microchip Implantation Sites

Although market practice has been to implant microchips between the shoulder blades of the animals, studies show that to reduce the possibility of migration, implantation should be done as follows:

For dogs:    subcutaneous on the left side of the neck, behind the ear, lateral of the fourth to the fifth cervical vertabra

For cats:    subcutaneous on the left side of the neck, behind the ear, lateral of the fourth to the fifth cervical vertabra

For horses:  Subcutaneous or intramuscular in the upper center

Technical Datamars Microfindr™ Slim Microchip Data

Dimensions:  0.43” ± 0.016” x 0.06” ± 0.001”
                      10.9 ± 0.4 x 1.6 ± 0.05 mm
Weight: 0.01 ounces or 0.05 grams
Operating temperature:  -13°F to +158°F or -25°C to +70°C
Storage temperature: -40°F to +194°F or -40°C to +90°C
Power Supply: Microchips are passive − they do not require batteries to operate
Frequency: 134.2 kHz
Memory: 64-bit (conforms to ISO 11784/5)

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Pet Travel by Air

Pet Travel by Air – Tips for Flying with a Pet Traveling with your pet by air? Follow these simple steps for a safe and stress-free experience flying with your pet.

Airline pet travel can be an enjoyable experience, but can also be stressful without the proper preparation. It is important to remember (especially on international flights) that there is specific documentation that will need to be completed in advance of travel.

If you are traveling internationally by air, you will need pet passport forms for the specific country you are traveling to. Do not procrastinate! Some countries such as Japan, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, Norway, Iceland, Ireland and the United Kingdom all have quarantine policies ranging from up to six months. There are ways to avoid your pet being quarantined in these countries, but you must prepare in advance.

The next step is to find the airlines which service your origination and destination cities. Once you have a few airlines to choose from, take a look at their individual pet policies. Each airline is different with regard to pricing and pet policy. Doing your homework at this stage of the process is very important.

Here’s a tip! Once you find the airline that suits your needs, (and those of your pet) print out a copy of their pet policy. This will ensure a hassle-free experience once you get to the airport. You can find airline pet policies at PetTravel.com.

The next step is to decide whether your pet needs to fly in the cabin of the airline or in the cargo area. This will depend solely on the size and type of animal. Most airlines that permit pets in the cabin specify cats, dogs, and small birds only. (rules on birds vary, however). If your pet is small enough to travel in the cabin, you will need an airline compliant pet carrier. Your pet will need to be able to stand up and turn around in the carrier. It must have adequate ventilation, a waterproof bottom, and secure fasteners. A general rule is that your pet needs to be less than 10” high and 18” long to be able to travel in-cabin.

Another tip: call your airlines and ask them how much room there is under the seat in front of you on your specific flight. This will tell you if you will have problems with your pet’s carrier.

 Larger cats and dogs and other pets not approved for in-cabin will fly in the cargo area of the plane. There are many myths about pets traveling as cargo such as “the area is a dark cold place where your pet is going to suffer.” Let me tell you, this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Did you know that the cargo area where pets fly is temperature and pressure controlled just like the regular cabin? Also, all airline personnel who handle your pet have been specifically trained for this purpose. Airlines have to report all incidents to the US Department of Transportation for recording. Certainly, they want to avoid any problems with traveling pets.

If you cannot accompany your pet, or your pet is too large to travel with checked baggage, you need to contact the cargo department of the airline. They will be handling your pet’s transport, and will deliver your pet to baggage claim at the end of the flight.

Your pet will have to travel in a pet cargo crate that is compliant with International Air Transport Association. The crate will have to have adequate ventilation, (all 4 sides on international flights) a spring lock door, sturdy fasteners, (steel in some cases) food and water bowls attached to the door, no wheels, and live animal stickers on the outside of the crate. Your pet needs to be able to stand up and turn around in the crate. If the flight is a long one, we would also recommend a pet pad to keep your pet dry and comfortable.

No matter whether your pet travels in-cabin or cargo, it is crucial to call the airlines before booking your flight to let them know you will be traveling with a pet. Most airlines only allow a certain number of pets on each flight, so it’s best to make your pet’s reservation early.

The final step is to visit your vet for a health certificate. We highly recommend this although not airlines require it. The form should be completed less than 14 days before your date of departure. The health certificate will state that your pet is up to date on shots and exams and is free of ticks, fleas, and diseases communicable to humans. The cost varies depending on your veterinarian, but it’s something you have to do if you want your best buddy to travel with you.

Groom your pet before traveling. Your pet will feel and look better after a bath and combing. Cut back on your pet’s food and feed them about 2 hours prior to flight time. Be sure they are hydrated, and take them for a long walk before heading out to the airport.

Sounds like a lot, doesn’t it? Most of it is common sense. I cannot stress enough the importance of preparation. Give yourself enough time to prepare the documentation and acclimate your pet to his/her carrier or crate. Simple steps such as these will go a long way in insuring a pleasant flight for both you and your pet. -

See more at: http://www.pettravel.com/blog/?p=152#sthash.aAukLFKA.dpuf

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!

Pet Immigration Forms

Pet Passport - Pet Immigration Forms

Every day, we have people asking us for a PET PASSPORT to take their pet into countries all over the world. The term was originally popularized in the European Union (EU) where it became an easy way for pets to travel within the countries of the EU.

Technically, there is no such thing as a PET PASSPORT, at least not in the United States or Canada or few countries, for that matter, outside of the European Union (EU). (see below for countries belonging to the EU.)

IIf you lived in Europe you could get something called the BLUE PET PASSPORT that would contain your pet's health records and even their photo. However, the Blue Pet Passport can only be issued by veterinarians inside the EU. Pets can travel freely in the EU with their pet passport without having to complete the Annex II form for each country in the EU that they visit. Pets can also travel to and from other neighboring countries with their passports such as Andorra, Croatia, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and the Vatican City State. Additionally, pet passports issued in certain EU countries are honored in other autonomous countries that are associated with an EU country. Danish passports are honored in Greenland and the Faroe Islands. French passports are

WHY IS A PET PASSPORT IMPORTANT?
A pet passport is important because it allows you to group all required and vital information about your pet in one place and make it convenient for officials at the border to verify your pet's health and inoculation records.

CREATING YOUR OWN PET PASSPORT
Your veterinarian can help to create a passport for your pet to enter almost any country in the world.

For example, If you are from the United States and are visiting most European Union countries, then the pet passport will consist of the following:

honored in French Guyana, Guadelopue, Martinique and Reunion. Spanish passports are honored in the Canary Islands, and Portuguese passports are honored in the Azores and Madeira.

• The Annex II for the country you will be visiting (they are all different) completed by your veterinarian and certified by the State USDA veterinarian.
• Your pet's inoculation record which must be attached to the certified Annex II form. (Sometimes the inoculation record is referred to as the Rabies Certificate.)

If you are visiting one of the United Kingdom countries ( England, Ireland or Scotland) or Finland or Malta, your pet will need proof of a tapeworm test to complete the PET PASSPORT.
COUNTRIES OTHER THAN THE EUROPEAN UNION
Any country in the world will require proof of good health and a rabies certificate, although the rules for additional testing vary widely from country to country. You should have a Health Certificate completed by your veterinarian. This certificate is also referred to as a Veterinary or Sanitary Certificate.

Some countries require more kinds of inoculations and some require an import permit. You can find out the specific requirements for the country you plan to take your pet by visiting our pet immigration rules page. If you are interested in complete instructions and forms required for taking your pet to over 240 countries worldwide, you can find Pet Passports at our store. All countries are guaranteed to contain the latest information available.

AVOIDING QUARANTINE
The key to avoiding delays at the border and/or quarantine when traveling with your pet is to have your pet passport complete and accurate for the countries you are visiting. However, there are countries that will require quarantine regardless of adherence to their rules.

If you have questions submit them to: info@pettravel.com.

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!

Pet Cargo Airline Restrictions

Pet Airline Temperature Restrictions In Cargo

Temperature Restrictions have been established by some airlines to ensure animals are not exposed to extreme heat or cold in the animal holding areas, terminal facilities, when moving the animals between terminal and aircraft or on an aircraft awaiting departure.
     Heat Restriction: Pets will not be accepted by some airlines when the current or forecasted temperature at the arrival or departure airport is above 84F (29C) at either location on the itinerary (75 degrees for snub-nosed dogs and snub-nosed cats).

The Airline Summer Heat Embargo
     During the summer months, May through September your airline may not allow you to tran

sport your pet in the cargo department. Some airlines seem to take the position that they will not accept any pets in cargo during these months while others take a more flexible approach.

Solutions
News! Delta has launched a program called the Summer Live Animal Program. Read about their program for summer airline pet cargo transport

Check with a different airline, Continental does have this restriction except for a few airports where it is very hot in the summer such as Phoenix.
     Choose a flight that leaves after dark and arrives early in the morning before the runway begins to heat up. If you talk with the airline they will likely take your pet in cargo on such a flight although "technically" their embargo is in effect. Try more than one airline - some are more flexible with the rule than are others. Or use a different departure or arrival city where the weather may be cooler. You might have to drive 100 miles or more on departure or arrival to reach the airport but this can be a solution.

INTERNATIONAL - For the most part International carriers do not have this restriction.

Cold Restriction: Pets cannot be accepted when the ground temperature is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit at any location on the itinerary UNLESS the pet has a veterinarian's statement of low temperature acclimation.

The low temperature acclimation certificate form must include:
1. the name and address of the passenger
2. the name of the animal
3. name and signature of licensed veterinarian
4. the veterinarian's accreditation date and number
5. the temperature to which the animal is acclimated
When temperatures fall below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, pets may not be checked even with a statement of low temperature acclimation

IATA certified pet crate for traveling with your pet

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!

Internation Pet Travel

International Pet Travel

THE CHANGING WORLD OF INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
The quarantine rules, regulations and required forms for traveling internationally with your pet are constantly changing.
     European Union (EU) Countries have relaxed the rules for entering from a country with a low incidence of rabies such as the United States and Canada. Of the EU Countries, only the UK, Norway, Sweden and Malta now require pet quarantine however even that can be avoided by having a blood titre test performed in advance of travel.
     Most EU countries now recognize 125 different countries as having a low incidence of rabies, the latest addition to the list being Mexico. The UK list of countries from which you can enter without
quarantine is somewhat shorter.
     Virtually all countries that require that your pet be micro chipped as a condition of entry specify a 15 digit ISO microchip. The ISO pet microchip, which is a non-encrypted 15 digit microchip operating at 134.2 kHz is the world standard.
     Gone are the days when a universal international health certificate such as the APHIS form 7001 would suffice for travel to another country. Now, almost every country has their own unique veterinary certificate.
     Although there are countries that require manditory quarantine, having your pet quarantined almost never happens any more now that the blood titre test has come into popular use as a means of making sure that pets are vaccinated for rabies. However, every day more countries are requiring the blood titre test, so you need to check each country's regulations carefully. The Turks & Caicos and the United Arab Emerites are recent additions to the list of countries requiring this test.
Pets living in Europe have an even easier time, as the EU has adopted a single form of veterinary certificate called the Blue Pet Passport. However, the blue pet passport can only be issued by veterinarians in the EU and it is only valid for travel within the EU.
     VETERINARY CERTIFICATION: Most countries require that the forms for taking a pet into that country be certified by the "competent authority" for veterinarians. This is the governmental agency that licenses veterinarians in the country from which they are departing. In the United States, this is done by the State USDA veterinarian and in Canada by the CFIA office in the region of Canada you are traveling from. We have more information on USDA certified veterinarian in your state, in our pet passport, quarantine, and immigration information section.
     With more airlines accepting pets on their international routes, traveling with your pet has become much easier. It is VERY important that you have the current information and all of the necessary forms before traveling internationally. The forms and instructions for taking your pet to almost every country in the world can be found in our pet immigration form section.
     In addition to the immigration rules and forms you will find the pet policy for the world's airlines as well as policies for cruise ships and ferries throughout the world.
If you have questions regarding International Pet Travel with your pet, send an email to: Info@pettravel.com.

Thanks PetTravel.com!

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!

Pet Friendly New Orleans!

Dog Parks and Walks in New Orleans, Louisiana

Travel with your Pet to New Orleans, Louisiana!

Pet Friendly Nola!

We want to help you bring your cat or dog on vacation to New Orleans, Louisiana!

New Orleans has soooo much to do! Alot of it is not the best to do with your pet, so please use this site to make a plan!

Please take a strong look at day/night pet care, and at the by owner rentals, which have more space for a dog.

Intercontinental Hotel New Orleans

Pet Friendly Hotels in New Orleans

Watch the crowds!Please look thru our site for petfriendly hotels, petfriendly parks, petfriendly restaurants, or even by-owner rentals, which are a great option. Staying in a by-owner home or apartment offers so much more space for you and your pet...

Stunning Garden District Home in New Orleans

By Owner Pet Friendly Rentals in New Orleans

Have a daytrip planned or a late night? Please check out our preferred boarding caregivers. We also find the best local veterinarians and find or take videos of the local parks or play areas for you to go to with your cat or dog.

Central Bark Pet Care in New Orleans

Pet Daycare in New Orleans

Taking a plane? Check out our travel information page for the latest on taking pets on specific airlines. Check out our hints on how to handle the crowds of New Orleans with your dog.
Our travel store can help outfit you for your travels.

Prytania Vet Hospital in New Orleans

Vets in New Orleans

Have a question? Post it! We will answer, and invite others to do so as well. This is a community! A community of people who love their pets like children and think it is more fun to keep them close than to leave them behind.

Bridge Lounge in New Orleans

Pet Friendly Restaurants in New Orleans

And, if you are a local provider of a service such as lodging, hotel, restaurant, by owner rental and you are pet friendly, or if you are a vet or daycare facility, please, advertise with us!
Robin

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!