Transporting Your Pet Dog
This post was written by Mrs. ChatterboxAugust 18th, 2008
Do you know what you need to do to transport your dog from one country to another or even from one state to another? Most people would just put their pet in their car and hitch up the U-Haul trailer and drive. But sometimes moving is not that simple.
That is where a pet transportation specialist comes in. Pet shipping should be done with careful planning and preparation. There are laws and regulations that should be part of the preparation and planning. As an owner you need to be aware and understand the applicable laws and regulations regarding your dog transportation.
You also what your dog to get the special treatment that it deserves during that transportation. Many transportation companies, like Animal Land, will provide your pet with a crate for transportation. But you can purchase your own kennel or transportation if you would. If you do purchase your own you want to make sure that they are comfortable and safe for traveling. Make sure that it is sturdy and strong and that the size is proper to fit your dog. This ensures that your dog’s movement will not be hampered when it wants to turn around or roll.
There are many animal transportation services so you should not have a problem finding one that is skilled and experienced in handling dogs or any pet transportation. In fact, they would take care of all the necessary documentation and handling processes that are needed to get your pet to your destination. You also want to make sure they are properly licensed by the USDA to transport animals. Yes, the USDA does more than regulate the beef that you eat.
Using an animal transportation service also takes the worry out of your vacation for your move where your pet is concerned. The only part that you need to worry about is all the preparation before your pet starts his/her trip.
You will need to arrange for a qualified veterinarian to do a physical examination and administer any necessary vaccinations that might be required for overseas travel. Make sure that you get a vaccination certificate and a health certificate. You might also wish to ask for referrals to any veterinarians that might be along the route that you are taking just in case one is needed. If your pet needs medication, you also need to make sure that you there is enough available for journey. You also want to make sure that the transportation service has detailed health information concerning the medication.
You will also need to check the laws and regulations that might apply along your route and at your final destination. In the US the laws differ slightly between states but you might want to check on them anyway. In most cases in the US this is handled by each state’s Department of Agriculture.
You also want to be able to identify your pet at the final destination. So make sure that you have a picture and your pet has an identification tag with complete contact information and address. On the off chance that your pet is lost you will need these as well. For long-distance traveling I would definitely suggest leaving the transportation of your pet to the professionals to avoid stress and problems.