If you’re relocating to somewhere that requires air travel and you have pets, you will naturally be a little concerned about them flying from your present home, to the place where you’re relocating to. Using an Animal Transportation service is the best way to get your pet from point A to point B, since they have all the know-how as to what to do when it comes to transporting animals.
They are familiar with all the rules and regulations regarding animal air transportation and will make sure that your furry, four-legged family member gets to your new home comfortably and in as short a time as possible.
Following is a guide of what you can expect from an Animal Transportation service if your pet needs to travel by air.
Pet air transport services include:
• Your pet being picked up at home and if necessary, boarded at a good kennel
• All airport services
• An IATA approved shipping container
• Completion of your pet’s health certificates
• Endorsement by USDA
• Completion of documentation regarding import or export
• Cargo expenses
• Customs clearance at final destination
• Delivery of your pet to your new home
What if the weather is bad?
Good pet transport services normally only work with airlines that are pet-friendly. These airlines will prevent your pet from being exposed to the elements by moving them to and from the plane in temperature-controlled vehicles.
However, since there are seasonal weather restrictions that apply to most cities, there is a possibility that your pet is not able to fly on the day you choose. In these cases, your pet might have to travel at a time that is not convenient for you.
What happens if the flight is cancelled?
Although flight cancellations are rare, they do sometimes happen. Should your pet’s flight be cancelled, the transportation service will fetch him/her and arrange for them to fly to their destination on the next available flight. The transport service will contact you prior to making any new flight arrangements.
Is it necessary to sedate my pet before flying?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), sedatives or tranquilizers at high altitudes can cause more harm than be helpful to a pet, so they strongly advise against it. For this reason, many Animal Transportation services will not transport tranquilized or sedated pets.
Keep your receipts!
The great thing about transporting your pet to a new location is that if your relocation is work-related, all costs for moving your pet are tax-deductible! Your accountant should be able to confirm this for you.