BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?

Subject: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Maryrrf
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 11:10 AM

My son, who lived in California for several years, had a dog he raised from when she was a blind, toothless little pup. (He found her abandoned in a box on the street). For several years she lived with him, but when he moved to an apartment (and subsequently went to Africa for an internship)she was 'fostered' by the parents of one of his friends who had a house. She did well there. Now Tom has moved to Massachusetts, but he is again in a position where he can't have a dog. The family Bootie was living with says they can't continue to keep her - so I want to bring her to live with me in Virginia. Does anybody have any experience with pet transport companies? There are a lot of them on the net, but I would like to use one somebody has already tried, if possible. I could just book a doggie ticket on an airline and ask the family to take her to the airport and load her up, but I'm not sure they'll be willing to do this. I may have to find a company that will pick her up (in the San Francisco Bay Area). There are some companies that transport animals in a van, cross country, with pottie and excercise breaks, etc. That might be an option as I've not heard good things about dog transport in airplanes, where they have to be checked as baggage.

Bootie is a Tibetan Terrier (or that's what she looks like) around 8 years old, and weighs about 25 lbs. Here's a picture of Bootie .

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: SINSULL
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 11:22 AM

DO NOT SHIP BY AIR.
Dogs go in the cargo hold and there is no guarantee that they will remember to pressurize it or even get it on the right plane.
Cross country specialists with references sounds better. Or drive the puppy yourselves.
I wonder if there is any possibility of bus transport?

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: katlaughing
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 11:25 AM

Oh, she is a cutie. I haven't had any experience, lately, but in 1993, I flew from WY to MA with 6 cats, 1 dog, and two birds plus kids from 13 to 6. One cat was able to stay under my seat, but the rest went in the baggage area. I had to collect and changed them to the next plane when we reached Denver. It was quite an experience. Because it was late summer and hot, I was told the pets had to have stopovers and we would be able to be with them, but when I got to the next stopover, I could not locate them through the airline. It was horrible, I was so frightened. Finally, I was told they had flown non-stop after all, and would be waiting for me at the airport baggage area in CT! Long story shortened, they were locked in the office of the baggage manager, waiting for us when we got there.

My brother flew from MA to WY with his two cats in the baggage area. They did fine, but it was nerve-wracking.

Having said all of that, I think I'd probably use the airlines after researching their "track record" online as you are doing. I would be worried about a company driving them lest they lose them through whatever accident..loose leash, doors open at the wrong time, etc. However, my daughter shipped her horse from CT to CO and there was no problem. She arrived in fine shape and on time.

Good for you for giving her a new home. I am sure you will work it out.

kat

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Maryrrf
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 11:30 AM

I thought about flying out, renting a car and driving back, but coast to coast car rental is really expensive and due to both time constraints and the fact that I'm not at all sure my car would make it that far, I wouldn't want to drive out there and back. Any 'catters planning cross country trips? I could subsidize...

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: katlaughing
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 11:32 AM

I missed your posting, Sins. from looking at a couple of airline websites, it looks as though they really are trying to provide safer shipping of pets. Here's just one example: Continental.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: jeffp
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 12:03 PM

Talk to a breeder in the area and find out what they do. My wife bought a Pomeranian 5 years ago and the breeder handled all the arrangements. He's still happy and healthy.

Good luck to you.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 12:23 PM

Tami [Ranger1] received her dog [Bandit] via a road haul system. I suggest you ask her Mary.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Becca72
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 12:35 PM

I have to agree with Sins on this one. I wouldn't trust the airlines with such precious cargo. They can't even keep your bags safe, for cryin' out loud.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Stu
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 12:43 PM

The only way to be sure is go and get Bootie personally, or someone you know. Mind you, your country is sooooo big . . . .

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: ClaireBear
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 12:47 PM

Don't I remember a newish airline for dogs and cats? Yup: Pet Airways

They don't fly from SF, but maybe they can suggest a way to get your dog from SF to Los Angeles, from which they do fly -- they must have that problem a lot. They fly into DC. Critters fly in the passenger compartment. No idea of the price, but it might be worth checking out.


Best of luck!

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: katlaughing
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 12:56 PM

Also, check with area animal rescues/ASPCAs, not only for advice on transports, but also for help in getting him to the airline or wherever. There are networks of rescue people who transport pets to be adopted. They may be able to help. I think Spaw knows about a few of them.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Bill D
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 01:16 PM

Driving across country from Cal. to VA. is at LEAST a 5 day drive...6-7 for many, so that would mean potty stops and walks and feeding many times...and depending on how the dog tolerates riding and gets along with people, it could mean other issues.

I'm sure there is some dependable from of air transport that would reduce the time to just hours...

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Ebbie
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 01:21 PM

I have shipped my dog(s) by air with no problems. To me, the most important element in their comfort with the experience is that they be crate trained. If a crate is already their go-to place, they don't stress out nearly as much.

They are NOT loaded in with the baggage; there is a special place in the hold, heated and cooled. That may not be true of small private planes but it is true of every major airline I know of.

I put an empty dish in the crate for the water the crew will put in and I tape a baggie with dog food to the top of the crate in the event they miss a mealtime.

Keep in mind that these are human beings in charge of the animals; many of them are animal lovers themselves. I have talked with them; they want the animals to be safe and as stress free as possible.

Air travel is by far the fastest and to me that is important. I want to get the experience over with.

I have friends who frequently travel with their two Cairn Terriers. Both dogs are under 20 pounds and they travel in carriers that fit under the seat in front of them.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Mrrzy
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 02:17 PM

And let us know how it turns out! I have no concrete advice...

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: ranger1
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 02:26 PM

Mary, there is a new air transport company that just handles pets, and in the passenger compartment. They ain't cheap and it takes about 24 hours, but it might be worth looking into. The company's name is PAWS. There was an article in our local newspaper, The Portland Press Herald, about it a few months ago.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Maryrrf
Date: 24 Mar 10 - 02:38 PM

I'm doing quite a bit of research now. Unfortunately, money is tight. BUT, I want Bootie to have a safe and comfortable trip, so I won't go with an option just because it is cheap. All suggestions appreciated guys!

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Neil D
Date: 25 Mar 10 - 12:36 PM

Maybe a rescue could arrange a transport chain, where one person drives so far and hands the dog off to the next, like a relay. Hope this helps :)

                                           Christina

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: artbrooks
Date: 25 Mar 10 - 12:42 PM

I shipped 2 cats from Erie, PA to Phoenix about 10 years ago by air - no problems at all. Tranks are available.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Maryrrf
Date: 25 Mar 10 - 02:08 PM

This is a little bit expensive, but seems like a good alternative and Bootie's foster family wouldn't have to do anything. I'm a little worried about them having to get her to the airport on time, etc. They're a little bit scattered.... The Pet Bus . All they'd have to do is get her health certificate 10 days in advance, and the company would pick her up at their residence.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 25 Mar 10 - 06:52 PM

What about doing it by train?

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: kendall
Date: 25 Mar 10 - 07:28 PM

Ever hear of the "Dead Dog Switch"? Thats the one they forget when they have dogs aboard. They can not live at 30,000 feet without pressure and heat.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Maryrrf
Date: 29 Jun 10 - 09:38 PM

Booty is on her way. I used The Pet Bus and so far I'm really happy with them. The family who was keeping Booty said that the people who picked her up handled her very well and she went calmly into the vehicle, where she had a large, comfortable crate with pillows and toys for the journey. I have been able to watch her from the PetCam, and they send me a journal update of her travels, with pics.

I think she will arrive by Friday. I'm excited!

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: katlaughing
Date: 30 Jun 10 - 03:36 AM

That is so neat, mary! I am happy for you and Booty.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 30 Jun 10 - 06:02 AM

lucky Booty!

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 30 Jun 10 - 11:06 AM

Bootie or Booty? Oh the connotations....

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: gnu
Date: 30 Jun 10 - 11:57 AM

Movies and bedtime stories?

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Maryrrf
Date: 30 Jun 10 - 12:52 PM

It's Booty (my son said I was misspelling it.) It comes from when she was a tiny pup and she would wag her tail so hard her little booty should shake. It wouldn't be my first choice for a name, but my son was a teenager at the time...

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Leadfingers
Date: 30 Jun 10 - 01:40 PM

I hope she settles in quickly Mary ! Best of luck with her .

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 30 Jun 10 - 01:42 PM

I like it!

It's also a pirate word.

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Maryrrf
Date: 01 Jul 10 - 04:24 PM

She's here! She is alternating between investigating her new surroundings and napping on the kitchen floor. I'm taking her tomorrow for a get acquainted visit with the vet and grooming - I'll have her clipped short for the summer. She is a very pretty little girl. I do notice, however, that she has some food aggression - she doesn't like it when anyone approaches her food. Here are some pics

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: gnu
Date: 01 Jul 10 - 04:40 PM

Good oh... but... can't see the pics.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Ebbie
Date: 01 Jul 10 - 04:57 PM

No pics here either.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Maryrrf
Date: 01 Jul 10 - 05:10 PM

Hmmm - try This Link

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Ebbie
Date: 01 Jul 10 - 05:50 PM

Sorry, still just a blank page, titled 'Kodak Gallery'.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Leadfingers
Date: 01 Jul 10 - 08:16 PM

Saw the FB piccies ! Glad she is there safely !

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: GUEST,amergin
Date: 01 Jul 10 - 08:33 PM

Whatever you do do not use the usps. They are highly inefficient when it comes to posting your pets. I always use Fedex or UPS.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: GUEST,leeneia
Date: 01 Jul 10 - 10:47 PM

I suggest changing her name. There are lots of names with a long u that would sound the same to her:

Ruthie
Suzy
Cutie
Judy

(If I had a new neighbor whose dog was named Booty, that neighbor would never be invited to my house.)

I'm glad she made it safely to her new home with you, Mary.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Maryrrf
Date: 01 Jul 10 - 11:21 PM

Since Kodak Gallery doesn't seem to work, I'll tryFlikr

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Ebbie
Date: 02 Jul 10 - 02:28 AM

Aw, what a cutie. (If I were going to change her name, I'd probably opt for something like 'Bodey', rhyming with Cody. What can I say - she looks like a Bodey.) Good luck to all in her new home.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: ranger1
Date: 03 Jul 10 - 12:00 AM

I think Booty is just fine, it's been her name for eight years, why change it now? And she's adorable, Mary. Glad to have a canine in the house again?

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Jul 10 - 12:03 AM

She is really cute!

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Maryrrf
Date: 03 Jul 10 - 10:31 AM

Yes I think Booty will remain her name - she answers to it and my son would be upset if I changed it. She had a very busy and probably upsetting(for her) day yesterday, but I figured I might as well get everything taken care of. She went to the vet and got checked out. She had some hot spots from a flea allergy, and an ear infection, which was dealt with. Then she went to the groomer and I had her fur cut short, with a "teddy bear" face. She looks adorable and it's bound to be a lot more comfortable. One problem I've noticed with her is food guarding. She guards her food bowl and growls if anyone comes near. I don't like that behavior at all. I consulted some dog books - so now I hand feed her and I will do that for a while. Yes, it's good to have a doggie companion in the house again. We are getting to know one another and it's fun. Next step will be to introduce my friend's dog Buddy, a little Cockapoo who comes to visit and spend the night sometimes. I hope they bond.

Subject: RE: BS: Shipping Dog Across the US - Advice?
From: Leadfingers
Date: 03 Jul 10 - 02:13 PM

At least Buddy and Booty are a simialr size Mary ! Hope they DO get on , but I imagine Booty will boss Buddy around ! LOL