INTERNATIONAL PET SHIPPING (IPS)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q:     The airlines refused to ship my pet because I am not a 'known' shipper. What do I do now?

A:     Due to the new security regulations implemented by the FAA on 11/15/99, flights originating in the US are only accepting cargo on passenger planes from persons who meet their requirements as a 'known' shipper; or from registered indirect Air Carriers (IAC). We are registered with the FAA as an IAC.
This means if you want to ship your pet as a cargo on a passenger flight originating in the U.S., you will need to contact a professional pet shipper for assistance. This also means that you, as the pet owner, will be required to give additional documentation to the professional pet shipper as they need to meet FAA's requirements in order for them to accept your pet for shipment.
The end result is a bit more involved for you, as the pet owner, and for us, the professional pet shippers, but it also means increased security for those flying on the passenger flights. And that's what's most important...a safe trip for everyone-two and four legged!

Q:     The airlines wouldn't take my pet because it was too hot (or too cold) and have an embargo because of the weather. Why is that?

A:     For the welfare of the pets, most major airlines may not accept pets in severe heat or cold. But these same airlines may accept pets booked as cargo, where they have a greater control over the number of pets per flight and the temperatures and time of day of the flight. This is the safest way for pets to travel. As professional pet shippers, registered wit the FAA, we must also comply with airline requirements. Professional pet shippers, because of their experience, often find a way to comply with the airlines and still ship the pet. It may not be the most economical or the most convenient for the pet owner, but our primary concern is the well-being of the pet.

Q:     Should I tranquilize my pet for the flight?

A:     According to American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), air transport of sedated pets may be fatal.
Over sedation is the most frequent cause of animal deaths during airline transport and accounts for almost half os all deaths. Little is known about the effects of sedation on animals that are under the stress of transportation and enclosed cages at 8,000 feet or higher, the altitude at which cargo holds are pressurized. And some animals react abnormally to sedatives. At this pressure, the physiologic changes from sedatives/tranquilizers may be enhanced. Increased altitude can also create respiratory and cardiovascular problems for dogs and cats that are sedated and tranquilized.
Brachycephalic (pub or snub nosed) dogs or cats are especially affected. Also their natural ability to balance and maintain equilibrium is altered under sedation. When the kennel is moved, a sedated animal may not be able to brace and prevent injury.
According to the Air Transport Association, pre-condition your pet to the travel container, rather than sedation. Let your pet get to know the flight kennel, as early as possible. leave it open in the house with an old sock or another familiar object inside so that your pet will spend time in the kennel. This way your pet will be more relaxed during the flight.

Q:     Travel by bus, train, or ocean vessel?

A:     At this time, Amtrak, Greyhound and other passenger bus companies that travel interstate only allow service animals accompanied by passengers on board. Even small, caged animals are prohibited. Local commuter trains may have different policies and would need to be contacted individually. As for taking a cruise, only the QE2, which sails from New York to England and France, permits pets, but only if one of its fourteen kennel spaces is available. the pets are not allowed in cabins or to roam about while on board. Check with Cunard Lines in advance for more information.

Q:     How do I find out about the quarantine requirements in different countries?

A:     Unfortunately, there is no one source for quarantine and country requirements. These often change and even we are forced to call the Embassies and Consulates for the latest requirements.