Click on a label to read posts from that part of the world.
Twelve tips before making your pet a world traveler
The story about the U.S. soldier who was granted permission to bring the dog she rescued from a trash pile in Baghdad to the U.S reminded me of the friends I've known who have brought their pets with them when they have moved to another country.
In the case of the U.S. soldier, the issue was with military regulations that needed to be worked out. In other cases, bringing a pet has to do with airlines and the regulations of the country to which you are moving.
Depending upon the country, regulations differ. Knowing what to expect right off can save you time and frustration in the end. For example, if you move with your dog or cat to Singapore, there is a lengthy quarantine process. One set of friends brought their two cats. Other friends brought their dog.
Every other day or so, both sets of friends would head out to the place where their pets were being held to visit. Along with the time and expense it took to get to the quarantine location, they had to pay several dollars a day for their pets' lodging and care.
With pets offering undivided devotion, the desire to include them in a move is compelling. If you're so inclined, here are tips to consider before turning your pet into a traveler:
These 10 tips are from the Website Living in Indonesia, but most of them are not Indonesia specific.
- Find out from the airline the regulations for the country to which you are moving. Also find out what you need to know about bringing your pet back with you.
- Consider the costs for both going overseas and coming back in your decision making. Getting there is only the first part.
- If possible, bring your pet along with you as access baggage which will allow you to check on your pet throughout the journey.
- Sending your pet via cargo may be more practical and cheaper.
- If you can, schedule layovers so your pet can have a travel break.
- Make sure your pet carrier meets regulations
- Clearly mark the carrier with the name of the pet, your name and your destination.
- Before your trip, put your pet into the carrier for long periods of time to get your pet used to being in the carrier.
- Put one of your pet's favorite blanket or toy in the carrier to create a sense of familiarity
- Don't feed too much
- Don't give tranquilizers because they put your pet at risk
- Attach a water bottle to the cage that can be filled from the outside.
For more details for taking your pet along, click here. Some are Indonesia specific, but they give an idea of those things you should be thinking about.
Here are the guidelines for traveling with an animal on American Airlines. I chose this one for no particular reason. Other details are listed that are worth reading if you're considering taking a pet on your move.
Filed under: Business, Stories, Indonesia, Airlines, Transportation
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Jason Oct 23rd 2008 11:05PM
Re: "pet along with you as you fly as access baggage"...what exactly does this mean?
Jamie Rhein Oct 23rd 2008 11:09PM
Jason, I have no idea! Too many words due to some sort of mind blip or distraction or something. Thanks for the catch. I fixed it. Heavens!
Turbospank Oct 25th 2008 12:03AM
Don't forget that some pets cannot fly because of their short noses, especially bulldogs, pitt bulls, and boston terriers. We considered moving to Budapest and the easiest way was the QE2, which has luxury kennels aboard, the bus from London to Paris (the train does not allow dogs), and then any train on mainland Europe. Unfortunately, I think the QE2 is no longer in commission.