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Pet shipping is the process of transporting pets from one location to another. This can be done domestically or internationally. When shipping pets, it is important to consider their safety and comfort during the journey. Different airlines and shipping companies have different regulations and requirements for transporting pets. It is important to research and choose a reputable company to ensure the safety of your pet. Proper documentation, such as health certificates and vaccination records, is also necessary for pet shipping. Additionally, it is important to prepare your pet for travel by ensuring they are well-fed and hydrated before the journey.
Pets
If you want to take your furry friend on a trip, consider pet transportation. Check out more adorable pet photos.
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Sheila Burnford’s “The Incredible Journey” tells the story of two dogs and a cat traveling across Canada in search of their owners. While the story is heartwarming, it’s not ideal for pets to embark on such a journey alone. This is where pet transportation comes in handy. Whether you’re moving or going on vacation, you may choose to transport your pets. Additionally, if you’re ordering a pet from another state or country or participating in a pet show, pet transportation can be useful. Even zoo animals are often transported this way.
However, the word “shipping” may make you think of damaged goods and lost packages. You may be wondering if it’s safe to transport pets like cargo. Fortunately, there are strict rules in place to ensure that pets reach their destination safely. In fact, the regulations can be so extensive that human travel would be impossible if the same rules applied.
Pet transportation can be done by pet owners themselves, or they can hire a service to do it for them. Pet transportation services are often referred to as “pet travel agents” as they take care of the necessary paperwork and arrangements. Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a service, let’s take a closer look at what happens during pet transportation.
How to Transport a Pet
Before you travel with your pet, it’s important to visit the vet.
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Thousands of pets are transported successfully each year, primarily by air and auto transport. While buses, trains and boats are not recommended for pets, some carriers may have their own policies. The Humane Society of the United States advises that pets should only travel by air when it’s absolutely necessary and questions the safety of pets in air cargo holds. However, if driving is not an option and your pet cannot travel in the cabin with you, air cargo may be your only choice. Fortunately, there are many safety measures in place to ensure your pet’s well-being during transportation.
If you have a rebellious attitude towards authority and a tendency to break rules, then transporting a pet via air cargo is not a good idea. The process of pet shipping involves a complex set of regulations that pet owners must navigate. Every airline and country that will carry or receive a pet has its own rules and regulations for pet shipping. This is why many people delegate the responsibility to a pet shipping service that will handle all the regulations, paperwork, and ensure that your pet arrives safely at your destination. The cost of the service typically ranges from several hundred dollars depending on the complexity of the move, in addition to the cost of the flight. (The Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Association is a good starting point for finding a reputable pet shipping company.)
Pet shipping services will also need to search for updated regulations, just like those who choose to do it themselves. While it’s impossible to cover all the regulations for each destination, it’s best to start the pet shipping process well in advance of the planned departure date to ensure that all regulations are met. It’s important to prioritize your pet’s well-being during the process. If you’re flying, choose major airlines with established pet shipping policies instead of unknown budget airlines. You may need to adjust your travel schedule to accommodate a nonstop flight (few airlines will transfer pets) or avoid flying during extreme temperatures when many airlines ground pets.
For readers in the United States, the best place to start planning your pet’s trip is with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) enforces laws related to animal welfare and has regulations for shipping animals humanely. If you’re shipping your pet to another country, you’ll also need to check with the embassy or consulate for any regulations regarding animals being brought into the country. Some animals require specific vaccinations or a quarantine period before they can be reunited with their owners.
After consulting with the appropriate countries, it’s time to check with the airlines. You’ll also need to schedule a vet appointment within 10 days of your trip, as most airlines require a health certificate from the vet certifying that the pet is healthy enough to travel. This certification may be difficult to obtain for elderly or pregnant dogs or pug-nosed breeds because they may have trouble getting enough oxygen through their short nasal passages. The airline may have additional regulations, such as full vaccination records or evidence of an implanted microchip for identification purposes. APHIS also requires that the pet be at least eight weeks old before shipping.
After the vet appointment, it’s time to shop for the necessary items. Find out more on the next page.
Shipping Pets by Airline
To transport your pet by plane, you need a suitable carrier that meets the airline’s requirements. The carrier must be spacious enough for your animal to sit, stand, and lie down comfortably. If you have two small animals, they can share one carrier if they are under six months old or weigh less than 20 pounds each. The carrier should have a solid floor, good ventilation, and openings that make up at least 14 percent of the total wall space. The kennel must also have a secure door to prevent your pet from escaping.
You must label the carrier according to the airline’s specifications, including an arrow showing which way is up, an indication that there is a live animal inside, and the name and address of the owner. The carrier should have handles or grips on the outside to ensure safe handling by cargo loaders.
It is important not to sedate your pet before the flight as this can be fatal. Instead, get your pet accustomed to the carrier and surroundings before the trip to keep them relaxed. Avoid giving your pet heavy meals before the flight, but you can offer them water. Airlines are required to provide water every 12 hours and food every 24 hours, unless your pet is under 16 weeks old. You should also provide food and water dishes that are secured but easily accessible for cargo handlers.
Before traveling with your pet, make sure to feed and walk them at least four hours before departure. It’s important to arrive at the airport early, as rushing to catch a plane with a pet can be stressful. Saying goodbye to your furry friend can be tough, but rest assured that all the necessary pet shipping details have been taken care of. To learn more about traveling with pets, check out the helpful links provided. The cost of shipping a pet varies depending on distance, with prices typically starting at around $250 for a 300-mile radius. Frontier and Southwest Airlines offer affordable pet shipping options, charging around $95 per shipment. While UPS can deliver pets internationally, it’s important to visit your pet’s vet before shipping to ensure they’re healthy enough for travel. Look for an airline that can accommodate your pet’s needs and make the journey as stress-free as possible. For additional information on pet travel, check out the sources listed.
FAQ
1. How do I prepare my pet for shipping?
Preparing your pet for shipping involves several steps. First, ensure that your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations and has a health certificate from your veterinarian. Next, acclimate your pet to the travel crate by allowing them to spend time in it before the trip. Make sure to label the crate with your contact information and your pet’s name. Lastly, provide your pet with enough food and water for the duration of the trip and make sure they have a comfortable blanket or bed inside the crate.
2. What documents do I need to ship my pet?
When shipping a pet, you will need a health certificate from your veterinarian, proof of vaccinations, and any necessary permits or import/export documentation depending on the destination. It’s important to research the specific requirements for your destination country or state and ensure that all necessary paperwork is in order before booking your pet’s shipment.
3. How do I choose a pet shipping company?
Choosing a reputable pet shipping company is crucial for ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort during transport. Look for companies with experience in pet shipping and positive reviews from past customers. Make sure they offer the appropriate services for your specific needs, such as international shipping or specialized care for pets with medical conditions. Additionally, ask about their safety and security measures, such as climate-controlled vehicles and frequent updates on your pet’s location and well-being.
4. What should I expect during the pet shipping process?
During the pet shipping process, you can expect to provide the necessary paperwork and information to the shipping company and communicate with them throughout the journey. Your pet will be transported in a secure and comfortable crate, and you may be able to track their location and well-being through the shipping company’s updates. Upon arrival, you will need to pick up your pet and ensure they are healthy and happy after the journey.
5. How much does pet shipping typically cost?
The cost of pet shipping varies depending on several factors, such as the distance of the journey, the size and weight of your pet, and any additional services required. On average, domestic pet shipping within the United States can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000, while international shipping can range from $1,500 to $4,000 or more. It’s important to obtain quotes from several reputable pet shipping companies and factor in any necessary services or permits to get an accurate estimate.
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