Mr Weeze

We did it ourselves using KLM and were happier with the non direct bit - a layover greater than 2 hours meant they took them to their animal transit centre and took Sam out of his crate. We stayed overnight in Amsterdam, so he had plenty of non crate time.

lizzyq

I did DIY with our two cats using American Airlines last October, flying MAN-JFK. It was very straightforward and the cats appeared no more more stressed on arrival than after the 5 hour car journey from Manchester to Pembrokeshire, which they did on a regular basis.

cxx

We did DIY a few years ago, via BA Cargo, and it was very straightforward. Our dog was one of 6 travelling that day and they were all totally unfazed by the whole experience. For our dog I preferred him to be in the hold - he would have been way more stressed out being in the cabin where people were moving around whilst he had to stay in a crate.

off_again

Me too. The trick that people use is that its an "assistance dog". Rules say that you can put any old jacket on and claim anything. There is no consistency between the plans and countries, so you can get away with pretty much anything.

Brother in Law is a captain on a commercial airline - frequently has had to deal with this issue and has actually kicked people off for screwing with the rules! But there was that case recently about someone who had an "emotional support pig".... which is truly screwing with the rules.

Oh, and one final comment - some people on short haul will hide the dog in a bag while getting on the plane. Wait until its in flight and then get it out - do that and risk getting banned from that airline!

excpomea

I wondered why there were so many dogs on my last QM2 crossing.
More dogs than kids, not that that was a bad thing.

The dogs up on the upper deck kennels were very well looked after. Seemed to be having a blast.
Had a real issue with the 'service' dogs. Bloody things were all over the place. Service dogs my ass. These were mostly companions for over indulged colonials.
One elderly woman had one on her lap whilst riding her electrical chair. It's main purpose was to bark at people as she approached to get out of the way. Well at least it was providing a service I suppose.

Jerseygirl

I've noticed more and more service dogs on cruise ships. Apart from one seeing eye dog...all the others have been for emotional support...whatever that means. Owners are even allowed to take their dog into the dining rooms.

excpomea

Last Caribbean cruise one of these dogs was plopped on the table next to the owner.
She sat alone. I know I would not have been happy at her table.

scrubbedexpat099

I have an emotional support dog, good to hear he can go on a cruise with me.

florida12

I am defo going with BA then as my two Chihuahua's are very sensitive and have separation anxiety, so a direct flight will be less stressful for all of us. I am worried about the crate full of urine and faeces.
It seems PETAIR UK is the one to go with.. I think?? Happy to hear these experiences from everyone. Its just all nerve wrecking. I do hope that my babies will be alright there, for hours on end. I am so fearful one may not survive, as I had read on this site, last year sometime, that someones dog did not make it on arrivals and that scares the hell out of me. My 2 are so fragile especially the girl. Shes so fragile. 6 yrs old and little madam!!

scrubbedexpat099

Just been into town to get some shopping, took my ESD with me.

Stopped at the PO on the way back, came out to find that the loaf of bread had gone, well apart from some chewed up wrapping, so ESD is in his cage.

Jerseygirl

Dogs can travel in the cabin when leaving the UK...you just have to find an airline that will allow it. FWIW I wouldn't let my Chi travel in the hold of a plane. Have you contacted United and asked them?

florida12

Can I ask why you wouldn't put your chi in the hold? Anything I should know? I haven't contacted united as not sure who im flying with it yet, as still going through petition..

Nutek

I would love one of these!

Jerseygirl

It all depends on the dog's temperament. If the dog is nervous I would want her with me. I would use whatever airline allows a small dog in the cabin.

scrubbedexpat099

I looked up what is required for an ESD.

Now you can get the Photo ID, badges, registration, gear etc on line for $70.

That will work in most places but for Airlines you are likely to need a letter from a Qualified Mental Health specialist. Probably get that done for free on the NHS, there are on line sources in the US.

Sounds a lot cheaper than the other options for shipping.

My ESD would need his own seat, no way would he fit under a seat but that would no doubt be cheaper than a crate etc.