Image source: http://humor.beecy.net/animals/halloween-dogs/airplane-dog.jpg
Guest post By Rob W.
My Dog is Air Freight?
When my job offered me an opportunity to transfer to Phoenix, one of my primary concerns was my dog, Buster. While I was very excited about moving, Buster is ten years old and perhaps not as enthusiastic about change. I was worried about how he would adjust. And I didn’t love the idea of thinking of him as air freight. I knew his arthritis would probably benefit from the warmer weather because we were living in New York at the time; when it got cold or rainy Buster would get very stiff. At 45 pounds he was too big to bring as a carry-on, so he would need to fly as air freight.
The first thing I did was consult with my veterinarian to see if Buster was healthy enough to travel. After the exam, the doctor assured me that Buster was up to the flight. We made sure that all his vaccinations were in order, which is very important when traveling with an animal. Some airlines may not allow pets to travel if you cannot provide proof of vaccinations.
Next, I purchased an appropriate-sized crate. It needed to be big enough for him to stand up, turn around, and lie down in comfortably. I also purchased a bowl that attaches onto the crate door. I put a comfortable bed inside. For the next few weeks, I gave Buster treats to eat inside his crate. He quickly learned that the crate was a safe, happy place to be.
When I was ready to book our flight, I found out that the airline I had booked for our flight had specific weather restrictions when traveling with pets. If it were too hot or too cold at the departing or arriving airport, Buster would not be able to travel. This is because he might be outside on the tarmac for a while as they load the plane. I had to pick a date carefully and hope that Mother Nature would cooperate!
About a week before we were to leave, Buster went back to the veterinarian to get a health certificate. This document certified that Buster was healthy enough to travel, and it’s required for transporting pets across state lines. My vet also gave me copies of all Buster’s medical records, because we’d need to find a new vet in Arizona.
I made copies of Buster’s vet records and health certificate, and also laminated an information sheet about him. The sheet told how old Buster was and said that he was friendly, in case any staff needed to remove him from the crate at either of the airports. It also had a picture of us together in case there was any question about his ownership. I taped this securely to the top of his crate.
On the way to the airport I purchased some ice to put in Buster’s water cup. The airline told me that if I filled it with water, when he’s being moved into the airplane it would most likely spill. The ice melts slowly, so it wouldn’t turn to water until Buster was loaded into the cargo hold. I was very nervous, but when I boarded the flight a stewardess brought me a slip of paper that said, “I’m on board, too!” That helped me relax, knowing that Buster made it onto the flight without any problems.
Once we got to the Phoenix airport, I went to the baggage department and Buster was already there waiting for me. He did just fine and everyone could hear him barking because he was so happy to see me again! He has adjusted perfectly to life in Arizona, and we are both very happy we made the move. So, while thinking of your pet as air freight isn’t the nicest of ideas, safe and happy air travel for pets is possible.
April 14, 2011
