 Barked: Fri Jan 6, '12 8:35am PST |
 | |  | | Let's see.... There were several pet dogs on our Delta flight to Seoul in 2008, including one ill-behaved Doxie. Lots of dogs on our United flight from Seoul to San Fran and then from SF to NJ. Out of the two airlines, I recommend Delta over United.
It is NOT against US law for small dogs to fly in cabin to the US. Any checkpoint to check their paperwork (and it's a joke) is after you pick up your baggage (including checked baggage pets) so you can clear immigration and then customs (and the guys as SF need a refresher course on courtesy - and Mom basically gave them one.
#1. Make sure teh slots aren't filled for your travel dates. In- cabin slots are limited by section (first/business/economy) and total number). Adjusting your travel dates may help.
#2 If that doesn't work and your dog has to go as checked baggage, then you will need a hard plastic crate with air ventilation on all sides (including the back). The dog MUST be able to stand up with no body parts touching the roof as well as easily turn around and lay down. You are required to use absorbent bedding in case of an accident. Double check with your airline about food/water bowls and if you will need to attach baggies of food to the crate.
#3 Make sure the animal is well acclimated to being in a crate. The vast majority of animal incident reports by the airlines involve animals that just haven't been acclimated and then try to dig/force their way out, often injuring themselves.
#4 Ziptie the four corners of the crate (or better yet all points where it joins) to reinforce it. I personally ziptie the doors after my dogs (and the crate) have gone through inspection so I can tell if it has been tampered with and to make sure they don't accidentally pop the doors open. I did this with Bretta on both of her flights (she flew from Baltimore to Seoul via Atlanta and then Seoul to Jacksonville via Atlanta with the last leg of the last trip being as cargo since a friend brought her back.
I've also flown quite a few dogs as international cargo with no problems. The general rule is to make sure the dog is healthy enough for the stresses of the trip and acclimated to the crate. |  |  | |  |
|
| my posts | my page | msg me | my family's posts | gift me | become pals | [notify] |
29
