For reasons that I am not really going to go into, we may have to export our dog to the US from the UK. What will the procedures be for this? How long will it take if he hasn't had any shots? What will happen when he is travelling? I know nothing about this, and I really want to find out before I commit to anything. Cheers.

You may find the following links of some interest:

http://www.petsonthego.com/transairlineregs.html

IPATA Independant Pet & Animal Transportation Assoc.Int.

DEFRA for details of long haul flights.

Hi, I recently exported a puppy to USA (Boston) and all that was required was an export certificate of health from a vet qualified to issue these (not hard to find). However, our puppy was only 11 weeks old and so did not require a rabies shot. I think your dog would probably need this. If this is the case, I think you have to wait about 4 weeks after the jab before he can fly.

The other important thing is the kennel he will travel in - it must be airline approved (and this can vary between airlines) but you can find a guide to size and requirements on the internet on the IATA site. It is best to check with the particular airline as to what exactly they require. Some airlines even allow the dog in the cabin with the owner if it is small enough. Our pup flew with American Airlines and we were able to stay with her up until about 1 hour before take off and she had the best of care. While on the flight, no one goes into the animals so water must be provided, and again there are guidelines on the IATA site.

I know that the UK customs only required the export health certificate, but it might be worth talking to USA customs also as to any vaccinations they require an older dog to have.

Hope this helps some.

Fiona

Hi, I just had a look at one of the sites Leigh recommended. It does say on there that sedating a pet may be preferred, however, each airline site I looked at stressed that sedation was not a good idea a the pressure in the aeroplane can cause adverse effects on the animal and also confuse it more. For our pup, it was only the second time she had been in a car let alone a plane but she travelled find arriving happy and healthy at the other end.

Good luck

Fiona

I agree Fiona. Personally, I would avoid sedation at all costs.