Dog travel

[MrsVP]

Hi
My husband and I are starting to look at getting out to New Zealand.
We want to transport our dog on a flight - but I can't bear the thought of her on a plane in a box in a dark hold!!!
Does anyone know of any pet friendly airlines or of any way of avoiding this?
All help is greatly appreciated.

[KARL]

If you are emigrating then this is perhaps something you wish to look into seriously, if it is only to be a holiday then I strongly urge you to forget the idea. There is no way to take animals on flights of this distance unless sedated in the hold, although there was one airline (Lufthansa ?) which was said to consider caged animals in a separate part of the cabin - you could perhaps try some of the third world airlines. Sailing may present a possibility but again I doubt if it would be allowed among the passengers. Personally, I would not knowingly travel with any airline which allows animals in the passenger cabin. Separately, you should first investigate whether New Zealand will allow a dog (or any animal) into the country - the High Commission should have all the answers. If your dog is to be considered for importation I would expect it to have to go through lengthy procedures to be accepted - I rather suspect it will not be allowed in under any circumstances.

[MrsVP]

Hi Karl

I've looked into it greatly and due to us being in the UK - and other things she will easily be accepted and there is no quarantine! 30 days at the registered address in the new county without leaving the grounds - but that's it! She has to have a lot of paperwork etc but it's all good!!!!
We ARE emmigrating, not holiday - starting to look at the workings and doing it now!
Thanks

[amonty1144]

There are only certain airlines and routes that accept dogs, so check on the defra website, as you may be limited in choice. It is also very expensive.
I did have the name of a company at Heathrow who handle everything and are very good, I'll keep looking and post again.
Good luck with the emigration, my aunt went to New Zealand 20 years ago and has never looked back.
Lucky you and good luck

[Dee Sa]

It is possible friends of mine took two dogs to NZ with them, but if their are quaratine laws are as strict as Oz they will be in quarantine quite a while, so choose caerefully so you can visit weekly and your dog doesnt think it has been abandoned.
First check the airlines, they usually charge by the weight of your dog +box, then take advise from your vet, you will probably have to get a special box made by a carpenter but it must comply with airlines regulations as to size, air holes etc.If you love your dog it will be worth the effort. If not pls find him/her a good home before you leave.

[jno]

http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/personal-travel -belongings-and-mail/bringing-things-into-nz/y our-pets

[jno]

sorry, that didn't really answer your question, it's the stuff you've already done - I should have read more carefully.