Things to do…
- You must obtain an IATA travel approved shipping kennel with water bowls. The animal must be able to turn around and stand erect without hitting the top or sides in the kennel. The kennels must also contain absorbent materials.
- The animal must have a health certificate dated within 10 days of travel-including rabies vaccination which needs to be at least 30 days old and less than one (1) year.
- For International travel your veterinarian must fill out the APHIS form 7001 International Health Certificate and USDA endorsement.
- All paperwork must to be originals and contain original signatures. No faxes or copies.
- Decide on whether you want your pet transported by air or by ground. The obvious difference will be time in transport and cost.
Animals cannot be transported using DHL, Fedex or UPS
- They can be transported by a pet transport company.
- Pet transporters are private companies that can provide the following services:
Pick up and Delivery - between airports, kennels, quarantine, veterinarians, and home.
Flight Reservations - with emphasis on airlines and schedules that are best for the well being of your pet.
Flight Kennel Sales - the correct type and size in accordance with IATA regulations meeting country and airline requirements.
Health and/or Veterinary Certificates - every country has its own set of regulations, and these change frequently. Domestic &
International Documentation - consulate legalization, import licenses, transit permits, etc - The International Association of Pet Transporters or Ipata web site provides a search engine so that you can find the Pet Transporter nearest you.
It is possible for any individual to ship their pet directly with most airlines in the US.
- You must contact your airline and inform them that you want to ship your pet. Most airlines allow pets to be shipped as cargo and have specific programs to help you.
- The larger aircraft even have special sections in the cargo department just for pets. In every case the area in cargo is pressurized and temperature controlled just as it is in the cabin.
- Some research into the on time arrival record of your airline of choice through the Aviation Consumer Protection Division would help ease your worries about your pet being in cargo for too long.
Things to remember…
- If the transport of the animal is delayed to conditions beyond their control, most airlines will pass kennel fees to the owner.
- If the animal should get sick and need medical attention during transport most airlines will also pass the veterinarian charges to owner. This usually is not a concern to a loving pet owner.
Good Luck and Good Shipping,
Your How To Ship Advisor
Some airline programs…
Make your contribution and submit a video on how to ship a pet using the guidelines above!!
