Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Hi!
We are relocating our dog from London to Chicago.
I have already paid a fortune for an attorney to sort out a visa for my partner-which ended up being pointless as they have been so slow and we could have done it ourselves!
So that being said-can anyone expand on the process of booking a flight and having the dog go in the hold as excess baggage?
I would rather save money now as I am getting frustrated and impatient!
Thank you for your help in advance!!!

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

:welcome:

Bringing Pets : British Expat Wiki

This is a good starting point

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Thank you! I have been looking but as you know there is SO much info on this amazing site!

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

We did it ourselves, but as our experience was 5 years ago a lot of it has probably changed.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

We brought our cat to Chicago last month. We used Pet Air UK, who were fantastic. We actually flew Aer Lingus Manchester via Dublin, but the cat flew LHR-ORD on BA. We picked him up the next day as Pet Air recommended we already by in the country in case there was a hold up at immigration. It was an extra £10 for him to stay overnight at their cattery. They sorted all the paperwork and the fitness to fly exam as part of their service.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

we did it ourselves from France 2 years ago. She travelled with us via Frankfurt on Lufthansa and was in the hold. All went well. Cost with Lufthansa was €350. Check with the airlines on their policy and costs.

I'm assuming the draconian rules regarding entry to the UK for pets aren't applicable when you are leaving but it is something to bear in mind.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

We flew our two dogs from the UK to Houston end of last year. I found it all very easy and straight forward and wouldn't hesitate to do it again if needed. First we bought air crates (they have to be to the right specification for the airline, I think it's IATA approved) I just ordered them online. We went a size up to make sure they had plenty of room to move around (it has to be at least big enough for them to stand turn around etc without touching sides/top).

Then got their rabies jabs done.

Next I called AA and added them both onto our booking as excess baggage.

Then a couple of days before we flew I took them to the vets and got their 'fit to fly' certificates done. I think the most it can be is a week before hand, but you'd have to check that.

Then finally, turned up at airport with said crates , rabies jabs proof, fit to fly certificates, oh and dogs and booked them in. The staff at the airport were amazing and incredibly helpful with helping me navigate them both around the airport through security etc.

I should probably mention, most people I believe get a pet passport done whilst in the UK before they move. It's not necessary for bringing them to the USA but if you were to move back to the UK it's needed. I didn't bother but it's something to consider. Anything help feel free to ask.

Oh and I can't remember the exact cost but I think for two dogs it cost us, all in around £700ish

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

We did it ourselves, going from Germany to CA with 2 cats.

You need to check requirements on three fronts: 1) the airline, 2) federal pet import regs and 3) state pet import regs. This will determine exactly what vaccinations/treatments your pet needs, in what time-frame, and how they should be documented. It isn't usually complicated.

Make sure the airline gives you clear guidance about what kind of crate is suitable. Some carriers are labelled 'IATA approved', but IATA doesn't actually endorse any of them, and they may not be accepted by the airline.

If possible, get your dog microchipped and set up with an EU pet passport first. Even if you don't return to the UK, the passport is a useful document for recording all future vaccinations etc.

Try to find out what exactly the process will be when your pet arrives at the airport. It really varies. I wasn't very happy at LAX, where our cats were just left by the baggage carousel with a pile of other outsize luggage. Most other people have had to go to dedicated desks, or cargo facilities, to collect their pets. There may or may not be some kind of veterinary or customs inspection.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

these are the IATA regulations which the airlines seem to adhere to.
http://www.iata.org/whatwedo/cargo/l...ges/index.aspx

Once you have collected your pet (yes, usually outsize baggage) then you will clear customs with them and all your bags. At this point, the officer will check the animal for any signs of disease visible, check the vaccination certificates and I think the bill of health from the vet.

If you have a connecting flight, then you will still collect the dog like this when you collect your baggage and then take them to check in with the next flight.

This is where you need to watch out.....
We had 2 flights from France to Frankfurt then on to Houston where we clearing immigration and customs with the dog. Then we had another flight to Austin. All were booked with Lufthansa but the last bit was with United. Lufthansa told us that the fee we paid for the dog's transport was for the whole journey. However, I had heard differing stories so when we went to check her in for the last flight to Austin, I was not surprised to be told we had to pay separately for that and this last 45 minute flight cost us $450!!!

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Hi Jessyec,
The size of the dog makes a huge difference. I've got a Rottweiler and as a result she is too large to be excess baggage on most flights, especially AA who say she needs to go as Cargo. Going cargo with AA means that I have to use a specialist company as they will not send cargo for those that do not have a business relationship with them.
What dog have you got?

The route you are taking is pretty good as there are a number of airlines that fly that route, Virgin seem to be especially good for a large dog as they offer rates that are a lot more competitive than AA. Apparently AA charge based on the crate size, plus the required surrounding area for the pets safety where they could have stored items and charged for. Virgin however actually apply a large volume discount. For me this was a provide difference of £2,950 with AA and £1,570 with Virgin

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

we used petairUK to bring our dog into Atlanta 3 weeks ago. Overall they cost about 200 GBP more than doing it solo but well worth it. Cant praise them highly enough

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Pet Air UK certainly seem to be the cheaper transport options. Not quite £200 more than doing it myself but then again, a dog the size we have does seem to change things

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

I'm suprised you were allowed to fly your pet into ATL in the middle of August. I thought they had summer restrictions for pet safety

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Houston didn't (5 years ago) - seems it can be airline as well as airport specific.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

We also used Pet Air UK and were very happy with them. We used their cheaper option which meant we did the vets paperwork ourselves, it was pretty straightforward.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

I have 2 Chihuahuas. Was going to do this myself but seems so complicated. They both just had their annual booster jabs. Both microchipped. No passport. Had a full health check last month. Both fine. May need rabies shot, for travelling into USA? (Not sure)
They both have their own crates, but not sure if, the size is allowed.
Was thinking of going through a carrier and petair uk, seems to be the ideal choice according to this thread.
Would like to do it myself to save money, but worried I will do it all wrong or forget something important then on the day of the move, it goes all wrong.
For the ones who had used petairuk, did you leave your dogs at their base office the night before your move? Or they got dropped off by yourself before you caught your flight on that actual day? A lot to think of as I am so concerned that they will be taken care of and not be afraid of being away from me and their surroundings. I know it helps to bring with them their fave blanket and toy with them on their crate during the flight. Which will be 10.5 hours to San Diego. Direct via BA. I would really appreciate any advice on this from previous or current pet owners who are relocating their loveable furry family members along with them. Thanks guys.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

What did the vet paperwork entail to do yourself? And how much was it total, if you don't mind me asking although, I believe the size of the dog makes the difference in the costs.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Are their rabies shots up to date? If not, you should certainly get the shots done before bringing the dogs to the US, so that they are protected from the word go. In the US, you will also need to get Lyme shots and ensure they are on heartworm medication.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

never had one, but my vet said 3 weeks ago that, If I am to relocate them both to the USA then Rabies shot would be advisable. They both have the flea drops that protects against lung worm etc. Advocate..
Do need to get the lyme shots and heartworm here before I leave the UK?

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Check what the state regs are...most likely you don't have to get rabies shots for entry into the US. If you do decide to get them done in the UK...check what type of vaccine the state requires i.e. live vaccine. If they have the wrong type they will have to get the correct shots when they are in the US.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Thank you. I think i will give petairuk a call & ask them what needs doing. I would like to do this myself to save money but since my dogs are 'toy' breed as they are known for it may not cost too much.
I like to get an answer on the 'DIY' option. Vets questionaire..
Thanks again

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Although the rabies shots may not be required for entry, I would certainly get them in advance so the dogs are protected when they arrive. As JG said, check the type of vaccine your state mandates. I am out of date when it comes to knowing if Lyme shots are offered in the UK. If they aren't, locate a vet and get Lyme and heartworm protection going asap when you arrive. Heartworm requires a blood test prior to starting medication (usually a monthly chew pill).

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Nutmegger this is very useful to know & ask petairuk when i call them in advance before going to the vet. Thank you!

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Not sure how Petair is going to help you decide what to do -- these items are your call. Check the web for US entry requirements and state veterinary statutes re the rabies shots and take it from there. The Lyme and the heartworm are not something you will need for entry, just things you need to be very aware of as a US pet parent.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

I agree with Nutmegger...best to check with the state rather than petairuk.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Dogs | Bringing an Animal into U.S. | Importation | CDC

You must check the regulations of the state you are bringing your dogs into. For example, the CDC regulations state that rabies vaccine is not required for bringing dogs from the UK to the USA ......BUT Texas regulations require it and so your dog must have it prior to arriving in Texas.

There is an international vet certificate of health which can be completed by your vet - most airlines will require this.

We brought our dog - you need to check the airline policy and the regulations of the state you are entering.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

.

So in my case...i check with the California / San Diego regulations then?
I hadn't realised there's a website to check for each state. I just google CDC?
In addition... Fit for flight certificate.
One of my dogs has an acute travel sickness/anxiety in the car, how will she manage on a plane? Do they offer mild sedatives to animals who are nervous travellers or is that not offered any longer?
Thanks for the heads up. Valuable info & insight of doing this. Thank you all.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Nope...the vets I have spoken to would not sedate a dog...no way...no how. I had a tiny 3lb Chi...there is no way I would have transported her in the hold of a plane. Some US airlines will allow one small dog per passenger to be carried in the cabin out of a UK airport. Failing that I would have flown via Europe...i.e. air France and taken her as hand luggage in the cabin...or trans Atlantic via Cunard. Domestic US and Canadian airlines routinely carry small dogs in the cabin...but only 1 per passenger.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

I read somewhere that they may not offer sedatives any longer, i would like both my chi's to be 'aware' during flight but was concerned about the anxious one.. its only myself traveling so, they both would have to be in the hold. Petairuk..once told me, when enquiring back in the summer that, toy breeds/ small dogs have always been fine on arrivals...but that doesn't stop me being worried. I have to do a direct flight to ease the stress of the journey for them both..
Thanks for confirming the sedation query. 😊

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Any longer?? We moved in '96 and our vet refused to sedate then! :blink:

You could look into using a shared private jet service. It maybe cheaper to buy a friend a return ticket to the UK...so both dogs can be in the cabin. You need to research airlines and costs.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Shared private jet service? Hmmm. I shall look into that. Thank you.
"Any longer? " I had mentioned that because for some reason, i had been told by so many dog owners 'get them sedated' and when i tell them that, they no longer do that or at least i dont think that they do because of a safety issue etc, they all seem surprised! So i thought i may had misread it somewhere. I'd rather find an alternative than have them both in the hold, but if needs must then, no choice in the matter as they need to be coming with me and very soon.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Sorry to be a Debbie Downer, but you really need to consider that you may not get a fit to fly certificate from the vet if your dog is that bad of a traveller. Maybe you could start looking at options now to help calm them down. It may be worth asking pet air (if that's who you plan on using) what options you have. Maybe you could start working with a Thundershirt now if they allow your pet to travel in one?

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

KLM definitely allow dogs on the plane:

https://www.klm.com/travel/us_en/pre...s/index.htm#p1

You just need two of you, as JG says.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Thank you. Would this be from London? Does KLM actually fly enroute to USA from London?
Also, I wish my 2 chi's were considered as one being how tiny they both are. It will only be myself due to the last minute flight bookings and no one else is available to take time off from work etc to travel with me.
I hate to think they are having to go into a hold. I have been trying to find photos or hidden videos or even demo's from pet carriers of where your pet will be held and how.. Any links out there for this? Thanks again. I shall look into KLM. I like to keep it just a one trip rather than go through a connecting flight. I want to make less of a stress to them and onto myself worrying about them both. :(

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Try Air France...also United as they fly from the UK. When they were Continental a couple of our members took their cats in the cabin when flying from the UK. I think they all have a one pet per traveler policy.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Great thank you! As long as they fly from London/UK I shall try those.
Many thanks. :thumbup:

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Here is the link for California
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/vph...portation.aspx

you need a rabies vaccination - please make sure that you allow sufficient time.
The airline will also require a vet certificate of health - but you must check with them on their procedure.

If there is just you travelling then at least one of the dogs must go in the hold. Maybe keep the anxious one with you if you must?

If your destination is San Diego, then try to use an airline with a direct flight into San Diego or you will almost definitely get charged about $500 per dog for a domestic flight, even if the airline tells you differently.

We used Lufthansa and went from Toulouse to Frankfurt to Houston cost us €350 for that (dog in the hold) and Lufthansa was great. Then we had to pick up the dog, clear her through customs with us and then check her in for the last 40 mintue flight to Austin. That cost us $450 extra even though Lufthansa had said it was included since we had got the flights all the way with Lufthansa.

A google search "international flights between london and san diego"
tells me that American, BA, Finnair and Iberia all fly direct from London to San Diego. I'm betting it's the same flight as a code share.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

Thank you for googling. Yes it is BRITISH AIRWAYS who are the only direct flight to SD from Heathrow. I have travelled there several times. Only airline. 10.5 hours. I like to keep them both together so they feel better with each others crates together on the hold. I don't even think BA even allow or even, the other shared coded flights will allow, myself to carry at least one of them on board. But then again, I prefer to keep them both together. The vet told me today that I should make sure that the anxious one has, the calming spray put onto her blanket and toys and she may even need this calming drops 30 mins before flight is due to leave.
They will definitely have their rabies jab a month before flight is due, I was told it doesn't matter if they have it anytime soon, as long as they've had it a month before travel. Their fit for fight certificate I shall get 7 days before travel according to the USA CDC website.
It looks like I may just have to deal with a direct flight to SD. 10.5 hrs and get some calming drops/and spray for her bedding and toys. Poor little thing. After all this worry, I am sure she'll be just fine on the other side of arrivals.

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

are they allowed bedding/toys? I don't think Lufthansa allowed it for hygiene reasons. We bought a disposable liner. Although she didn't pee at all during her very long day. She waited until the customs guy was giving her a quick check...

Re: Relocating Dog-DIY or Company?
 

I am not sure. Was only guessing. Be a shame if not. Understand though, although my two love to burrow themselves under blankets. Liners then. SPray the corners with the petcalmex spray etc.
Your dog was very good not going toilet. I don't think my ones will be able to wait during that long of a trip. Now, when they arrive, does anyone clean them or are they given to you as they are? I doubt they will clean, but just in case, any given dog had a really bad flight of it and made a huge bad mess that it needed cleaning as not nice for them to be in their own mess.