Pet Move of the Month: Neely's Move to The UK

Monday, April 9, 2012
by PetRelocation.com Customer

NeelyThe prospect of moving can be both exciting and overwhelming -- that's according to Stacy, the owner of our featured Pet Move of the Month. That seems to be how most of our customers feel about pet moves, which is why PetRelocation.com is happy to step in and help move treasured dogs like Neely when the family is called overseas (it was for military reasons in this case).

Military moves can be especially daunting, but Neely made the trip just fine and is doing well in her new place. Read on to find out the whole story (you can also check our blog for even more info about this pet move). Congrats, Neely! We're so glad we could help you in your journey across the pond!

 

Is this the first time you’ve ever moved a pet?
Yes it was.

What were some of your concerns going into the move?
The two major concerns that I had when it came to Neely’s move were her safety and the possibility of her needing to be quarantined.

Why did you decide to use PetRelocation.com to help out with your move?
I decided to hire your services because it took the work out of trying to figure everything out. Also, after reading all the great testimonials I knew Neely would be in great hands and would arrive home safely.

Did anything surprise you about the international pet moving process?
It wasn't that I found anything surprising, but I would say that some of the steps that were required in order for Neely to travel were a bit confusing at times. We were traveling to the UK during a time where a majority of the rules were changing rather quickly, thus making it difficult to keep up. That is why I am SO glad that we had the people at PetRelocation.com there to help us. With all the things that you have to remember to do in order to prepare for moving, it was a relief to know that I didn’t have to worry about keeping track of all the rule changes and requirements for Neely's travels.

How is Neely adjusting to the new location?
Neely is loving England! On her first day here she just slept the day away in an attempt to recover from doggy jet lag. It has taken her about a week or so to settle in and adapt to all the new sights and smells, but now its like she’s been here forever!

What is life like in the UK? Is it a pet-friendly place to be?
The town where we are living at in the UK is in the Lakes District and is very pet friendly. Many of the dogs here are very socialized and are often off leash. Some of the pubs and stores even allow pets in, just as long as they are well behaved. There are plenty of footpaths where we can go on walks and there is a very nice park in our area as well. On weekends we often go out for long hikes, which Neely loves!

When we first arrived here I had set up a vet appointment for Neely to make sure that there were no other vaccines that she needed, especially because there is so much livestock around where we are. I also wanted to make sure that her current heartworm prevention and flea and tick treatments were appropriate for the region. The vet we took her to was extremely helpful and thorough. We had copies of Neely’s vaccination records from the states which definitely helped the vet figure out what she had already been vaccinated for and what she needed boosters for in the future.

There are plenty of small locally owned pet shops in our town as well as some chain pet stores in some of the larger towns (which are not that far away) for pet food, toys, etc. One thing I would advise pet owners to do before moving is to make sure that the local pet stores carry the brand of food that your pet is currently eating. When we came over here we found out that the brand of dog food that Neely was currently eating was not supplied here at the local or chain pet stores. As a result, we had to switch her food over to something else, which was kind of a pain because Neely is a fussy eater. The only un-pet friendly thing we found about the UK was trying to find a rental property that allowed pets.

What advice do you have for people who might be planning a move?
The advice that I would give for anyone who might be planning a move is to prepare as far in advanced as possible, educated yourself on the process, and ask TONS of questions. This will greatly help in reducing the amount of stress that is involved with moving because you won’t find yourself running around trying to do things at the last minute. Also, make sure you have copies of your pet’s full vaccination record as well as any records in regards to illnesses or procedures that he or she may have had.


And just out of curiosity, where does the name “Neely” come from?
Neely was a rescue dog that my mom had found for me through Petfinder.com. When I had adopted her that was the name that she had came with. I was thinking about changing it when I brought her home, but she already new her name at that point. However, she does have a nickname of “Bean” that I call her very frequently. She earned that nickname because she was only a tiny eight pound pup when I got her.

 

neely

 

Pet Travel News Links: Last Call for 2011!

Friday, December 30, 2011
by Caitlin Moore
The year may be winding down, but there were plenty of fun pet stories in the news this week. Check out our final link round-up of 2011, and have a safe and happy New Year celebration this weekend!

Well this is obviously a no-no. A man tried to take over 200 animals onto a plane.

Having dogs is a tricky but essential part of life for many urban dwellers. Read about what it's like to be a dog-owner in New York City.

Important facts to remember during the holidays and all year long: a toxic food guide for pets.

We could all stand to save a few bucks. Here are nine websites that will help you find cheaper pet supplies.

Do you have a literary pet?

Another furry wanderer! Pollux the dog was missing for a year but ended up home, safe and sound.

Gothamist rounds up its top animal stories of 2011.

Bau Haus Cafe in Seoul, South Korea could be the most dog-friendly cafe ever. (Check out the video below.)




PetRelocation.com Honored with 'Lexicon World of Quality' Award from Lexicon Relocation

Wednesday, October 19, 2011
by Rachel Farris
This post originally appeared on PRNewswire.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AUSTIN, Texas
, Oct. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- PetRelocation.com, a provider of global pet relocation services, was recently honored with the first annual 'Lexicon World of Quality' award by Lexicon Relocation in a ceremony in Denver, Co. on October 11th, 2011. The awards reception, attended by more than 100 global mobility professionals, was held to recognize customer satisfaction and performance excellence in global mobility.

A total of 9 global services providers were recognized by Lexicon's Supply Chain Management professionals from among a field of qualified entrants within the global mobility industry. Award winners were chosen based upon internal and external service and performance metrics, as well as internal and external voice of the customer surveys based on the following criteria:

  • Customer Service
  • Value
  • Technology
  • Service Offerings

"Our customers and their pets are our top priority in everything we do," said Kevin O'Brien, President and CEO of PetRelocation.com. "To receive a customer service award from a company like Lexicon that is equally devoted to a high quality experience for their clients is an honor for PetRelocation.com."

About PetRelocation.com

PetRelocation.com offers door-to-door pet travel services using pet-friendly airlines for domestic and international pet moves.  Founded in 2004 in Austin, Texas, PetRelocation.com safely moves hundreds of household pets worldwide each year. For more information, please visit http://www.PetRelocation.com.

About Lexicon Relocation

Lexicon Relocation is a leading provider of employee global mobility services.  With a focus on providing flexible solutions for clients of every size, we support corporate and government organizations, their employees and their mobility programs throughout the world.  We offer a full array of customized relocation and global assignment services. By utilizing proven technology, supplier independence, quality performance metrics, cost-effective processes and the demonstrated expertise of our people, Lexicon brings the world to your doorstep, one employee at a time. For more information please visit www.lexiconrelocation.com.

Pet Travel Question: Driving with Cats

Monday, October 17, 2011
by Pet Travel Center Questions
Name: Stephanie
From: Vancouver
To: BC
Pets: Two cats (domestic short hair)


I will be relocating from Vancouver to Toronto and need to drive across the country with my two cats. I may be traveling through the US and wondering what I need to cross the border with them, as well as if you have any other tips and tricks? Thanks very much!
Stephanie


Hi Stephanie,

If you'll be crossing the US/Canada border, it's a good idea to brush up on the US pet import requirements and the Canada pet import requirements. Beyond that, we recommend helping your cats grow accustomed to car rides/travel crates if they aren't already (it helps to take several quick trips during the weeks leading up to the trip, for example), and be sure to bring all necessary paperwork as well as any medications, supplies and current photos.

Good luck with your travels, and please contact us if you have any more questions!



Pet Travel Question: Australia Pet Restrictions

Tuesday, August 16, 2011
by Pet Travel Questions
Name: Dianne
Number of Pets: Two
Pet Type: One African Sulcata Tortoise and One Citrus Bearded Dragon
From: LAX
To: SYD

Can we move these pets with us from the US to Australia?

Thanks,
Dianne

Hi Dianne,

According to information supplied by the Australian Government website, tortoises and bearded dragons are not able to be imported. 

Sorry about this disappointing news! Please let us know if you have any more questions regarding pet travel, and good luck with everything.

Five Ways to Keep Pets Safe This Fourth of July

Wednesday, June 29, 2011
by Caitlin Moore
fireworksWith the Fourth of July holiday weekend coming up, many of us are focused on packing our beach bags, stocking up on grilling supplies and visiting the fireworks stands.

Are you thinking about what's in store for your pets during all the hubbub, too? Remember, what's relaxing for us can sometimes be stressful for our four-legged friends, and this weekend has a tendency create a few hazards.

Here are a few simple tips for keeping pets safe over the Fourth of July:

-If you're traveling with your pet, be sure to properly restrain him or her in the car and bring along all medications, plenty of food, an extra leash, and a first aid kit. It's a good idea to have your pet microchipped if you haven't already and to also carry a recent photo with you.

-Try to keep your pet on as consistent an exercise and feeding schedule as you can and stick to a regular diet. Table scraps and "special treats" can lead to upset stomachs.

-On that note, keep human sunscreen, bug repellent, alcoholic drinks and anything else your pet might try to ingest well out of reach. The ASPCA has more safety ideas.

-Due to loud noises, bright lights and general chaos, many pets go missing on the Fourth. Rather than taking them out to fireworks displays, leave them at home where it's quieter and they can't escape.

-It's best to keep pets away from smaller fireworks, too. Sparklers, black cats and the like can cause injury, and remnants can be dangerous when sniffed too closely or swallowed.

Do you have anything to add? Feel free to share your summer pet advice with us here or on Facebook. Have a fun weekend, everyone, and keep those pets safe!


Photo by bayasaa via Flickr

Customer Pet Move Testimonial: Cupcake's Move to Shanghai

Sunday, June 5, 2011
by PetRelocation.com Customer
Name: Mandy
Pet's Name: Cupcake
From: Washington, DC
To: Shanghai, China

My husband and I recently moved from Washington, DC to Shanghai for a two-year stay with our small dog, Cupcake. We chose to work with PetRelocation.com because of their hands-on approach with the move, allowing us to call with questions at any time, and the wonderful references and assistance I received from former customers who made a similar move from the United States to China.

The service was fantastic and helped with every step along the way, from contacting our vet about the international health certificate and rabies certificate to supplying pre-paid mailing envelopes for the documents to be certified by the USDA. Everything was done in a timely fashion, and even though I was extremely nervous about the separation and trip for Cupcake, everything went smoothly without any issues. Cupcake arrived safely in Shanghai and was immediately happy and ready to play.

This was our first time traveling with Cupcake, and I had a lot of reservations about the service and thoroughly checked references. In the end, my husband and I were completely satisfied with our choice and Cupcake arrived happy and healthy.




Ten Ways to Be an Earth-Friendly Pet Owner

Thursday, April 21, 2011
by Caitlin Moore
Earth Day is not only an excuse to celebrate springtime, it's an opportunity to think about how we can do better. There's always room for improvement when it comes to recycling, reusing and reducing, and pet owners have specific ways they can lighten the load on Mother Earth.

This Earth Day, here are a few ways that pet owners can make a difference:

1. Spay and neuter your pets. This is the most important way you can avoid overpopulation and help preserve the earth's limited resources in the long run.

2. Choose toys and accessories made from organic, natural and biodegradable materials rather than chemical-laden plastics that take years longer to break down.

3. Reuse plastic bags from the grocery store as litter box liners and doggie clean-up bags.

4. When buying the pet products you need, try your best to support green companies (those with sustainable business practices, those that rely on natural ingredients, etc...).

5. Check the labels of shampoos and flea and tick treatments to avoid possibly dangerous chemicals (to humans and to the environment). This guide from the Natural Resources Defense Council will help you choose the smartest and safest products.

6. Visit your local farmer's market and support local entrepreneurs, who often use more earth-friendly methods due to their smaller-scaled operations.

7. For cleaning up messes, try to use basic cleaning ingredients such as baking soda and vinegar rather than hard-core cleaning liquids that may do harm to the environment when they re-enter the water supply.

8. If you're planning to travel with your pets, keep your car well-maintained in order to get the best gas mileage possible, and if you're planning to buy a dog-friendly car in the future, do your best to avoid a gas guzzler.

9. Go as paperless as possible. If your vet sends postcard reminders, ask her to email you instead. Unsubscribe from paper newsletters, and try to be removed from all junk mail lists.

10. Turn off the TV, ignore the car keys, and go for a walk. Exercise helps keep dogs healthy and happy, and it doesn't put a strain on the environment.

What are your earth-friendly pet tips? Share them here or on our Facebook wall!



Lessons from Japan: Five Ways to Prepare your Pet for an Emergency

Wednesday, March 23, 2011
by Caitlin Moore
aerial view of JapanIn the wake of the Japan's recent disasters, many of us have tried to imagine what we would do if we were faced with a catastrophe in our area. It's a good idea to have a plan in place, and pet owners have even more to think about in terms of dealing with power outages, severe weather, forced evacuations or anything else that may occur.

Now is the time to formulate a plan, and several resources exist to point us in the right direction. For example, FEMA offers a few ideas regarding disaster preparedness for pet owners, and several bloggers have weighed in on the topic as well. Dr. Patrick Mahaney, a veterinarian and vet acupuncturist, has listed several pet emergency preparedness tips on his blog that makes everything a little easier to think about.

Here are a few basics to start with:

Identification. This is true all the time but it's especially important in the event of an emergency: make sure your pet is wearing ID tags, get a microchip and keep the information up to date, and carry a recent picture with you on your phone or in your wallet.

Shelter. If evacuation should be necessary, know where you'll take your pets. Shelters set up for people may not allow animals, so consider the possibilities ahead of time. Is your vet an option? What about the closest animal shelter or boarding facility?

Survival Supplies.
It's a good idea to build an emergency kit for you and your family, and when you stock up with basic supplies (food, flashlight, bottled water, etc...), don't forget about pet food, medicine, and anything else your pet would need if you didn't have access to a store for a while.

Practice. Be sure your pet is comfortable following a safety plan. Going to the basement, staying in a travel crate for extended periods, and traveling in the car are all things your dog, cat, bird or other animal companion should be able to handle.

Observe.
Outdoor conditions can cause an animal's behavior to change from calm and well-adjusted to anxious, uneasy and even aggressive, so exercise awareness and caution, set a calm example, and keep pets properly restrained to prevent them from running away.

As unpleasant as it may be to think about dealing with a dangerous and disastrous situation, the smart thing to do is to have a comprehensive plan in place. Wrapping your mind around the details now means that later, if the time comes, you'll know what to do and how to do it.

Have anything to add? Share your tips with us here or on our Facebook page, and don't forget that Japan could still use our help. Make a donation to the pets of Japan if you've yet to do so, and join us by keeping everyone in your thoughts.



Photo by NASA Goddard Photo and Video via Flickr



Win Prizes and Give to a Great Cause with FIDO Friendly Magazine!

Tuesday, January 25, 2011
by Caitlin Moore
We thought we'd take a break from our usual focus of pet travel and pet shipping news to tell you about a worthwhile opportunity to do some good!

One of our favorite pet publications is featuring a contest offering the chance to appear in the magazine while stirring up support for an admirable cause as well. FIDO Friendly Magazine is one of our go-to resources for fun pet news (we recently took a look at their dog-friendly car guide), and we always love running across a way to make a positive difference in the world.

All you have to do to participate is visit ClassWish.org and make a donation (as little as $1) towards helping teachers secure the classroom resources they need to teach our children well. Recent and continuous budget cuts have made it increasingly difficult for teachers to stock their classrooms without reaching into their own pockets, and ClassWish aims to help improve our schools by lending a helping hand.

Four prizes are up for grabs, including pet supplies, a round-trip airline ticket and a chance for you and your dog to be featured in the pages of FIDO Friendly Magazine (following the path of celebrities like Hilary Swank). Donations to ClassWish are encouraged, but you can also enter by tweeting or emailing. Check the official contest rules for more details.

Good luck, everyone! Let us know via Twitter or Facebook if you've participated, and good job in advance for taking notice of a situation that needs your help!

fido friendly contest banner

Pet Friendly Airport Series - Introduction to Los Angeles

Monday, November 8, 2010
by Pet Friendly Airports
Welcome to Week Two of our monthlong Pet Friendly Airport Series! This week we'll be featuring LAX (Los Angeles International), which was the sixth busiest airport in the world in 2009. This hub sees millions of human passengers each year and plenty of non-humans as well, so we thought at what they offer in terms of pet relief areas.

First, it's worth discussing how and why areas like this have come about. It's tough to keep up with every bit of new legislation that comes along, but recent changes to something called the Air Carrier Access Act amounted to noteworthy news for pet travelers. Expansions to these regulations now require airports to provide better accommodations for travelers with disabilities, many of whom are accompanied by service animals. This means, if airports are following the law, that anyone with an animal in tow (be it a guide dog or a pet Chihuahua) will now be supplied with a place to go for bathroom breaks and exercise. 

In LAX, for example, there are now a handful of pet relief areas to choose from - five, to be exact. The Pet Parks can be found near terminals 1-6 and 8. Many of these handy hideaways offer water, room to run around, doggie houses, clean-up baggies and colorful decorative fire hydrants. Though all the areas are located curbside (that's outside of security), the fact that there are five of them means that, when it's time for a necessary break, at least you'll have options. We'll go into more detail as the week goes on, so stick around, pet travelers!




A Pet Park at LAX


 
PetRelocation.com's Pet Friendly Airport Spotlight series features a few airports with noteworthy pet relief areas. These Spotlights will highlight one airport each week, Monday through Thursday, through the month of November. We'll take a look at the various aspects of the pet areas, including the amenities offered and their general accessibility. For a look at the rest of our Airport Spotlight series, check out the Airport Spotlight page or on Twitter as #PetReloAS.

Pet Friendly Airport Series: 5 Ways to Make the Most of a Pet Relief Area

Thursday, November 4, 2010
by Pet Friendly Airports
Now that you've been introduced to Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International, the first airport in our Pet Friendly Airport month, we want to pause to discuss pet travel in general - specifically, what to do to prepare for a visit to one of these pet relief areas.

Each airport offers a different experience and your time to frolic will probably be limited, so follow these basic guidelines to make the most of your pet's airport visit.

1. Map It. Before you arrive at the airport, familiarize yourself with the layout so that you can avoid wasting any time wandering around or asking for directions. These areas are not always well-marked, so doing some sleuthing ahead of time will allow you to proceed with confidence.

2. Prepare
. This is good advice for traveling in general, but remember to have a few basic items in your doggy bag of tricks. A collapsible water dish, a familiar toy or two and a leash, of course, will make your pet's experience safe and comfortable. The relief areas should all be supplied with waste disposal bags, but you should carry a few extras just in case.

3. Be Polite. You never know what you'll encounter at a pet area. You may be the only ones there, or it could be a busy place; if this is the case, keep your dog restrained until it's clear everyone will get along (particularly if it's an off-leash facility). Whether you encounter service animals, security dogs or other pets, aim to be friendly and considerate by playing nice and cleaning up after yourselves.

4. Practice. A pet relief area can in many ways resemble a dog park, so make sure your pup is comfortable in such a situation. If you don't frequent any of your neighborhood hang-outs and don't often take your dog to new places in general, you might consider going a few times before the trip so that your little traveler can get used to the experience of being away from home.

5. Connect. There are all kinds of social media tools out there, so why not make use of them to pick up some advice? Through Twitter, Facebook and, yes, sites like PetRelocation, you can connect to thousands of pet travelers and gather some of the information they've shared. Whether you spend a few minutes reading a great travel blog or ask a question on an organization's Facebook wall, there are plenty of ways to initiate a conversation with an experienced group of peers.


PetRelocation.com's Pet Friendly Airport Spotlight series features a few airports with noteworthy pet relief areas. These Spotlights will highlight one airport each week, Monday through Thursday, through the month of November. We'll take a look at the various aspects of the pet areas, including the amenities offered and their general accessibility. For a look at the rest of our Airport Spotlight series, check out the Airport Spotlight page or on Twitter as #PetReloAS.


Five Years Later: Operation Pet Lift and Hurricane Katrina

Friday, September 3, 2010
by Rachel Farris
Hurricane Katrina Pets Operation Pet Lift
Remembering Hurricane Katrina and Operation Pet Lift: Five Years Later

They called it "The Big One" and for good reason:  Hurricane Katrina, which swept through coastal states five years ago, was one of the five deadliest hurricanes on record as well as the costliest natural disaster ever recorded.

While the nation worked to help its friends and family in New Orleans, one NOLA-based business, K-9 Cab Pet Taxi, turned to help the group they knew couldn't help themselves: the pets.

The Lamar Dixon Rescue Center in Gonzales, Louisiana

Operated by Pat Spicer and her husband Dan, K-9 Cab Pet Taxi transported rescued animals to the rescue center in Gonzales, Louisiana by the dozen.   The Lamar Dixon Rescue Center housed dogs and cats, as well as horses, cattle, pigs, chickens and even exotic animals during the aftermath of the storm.

Not long after the rescue operations began, philanthropists T. Boone Pickens and his wife Madeline wanted to help relocate 20 rescued dogs from Tylertown, Mississippi to Rancho Santa Fe, California. 

"Problems arose due to spotty communications, limited fuel and FEMA had contracted every cargo vehicle in the area," Spicer told us.  "It was proving to be nearly impossible to accomplish our task."  Spicer put out a call to her fellow members of the Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) and our CEO, Kevin O'Brien, offered to help.  From our offices in Austin, PetRelocation.com coordinated communications and helped get Operation Pet Lift off the ground.

Mr. T. Boone Pickens and his wife flew into Baton Rouge, chartering a 737 flown by Continental Airlines, which accomodated even more rescues to be flown out of harm's way that day.
  Madeline Pickens Katrina Rescue
Madeline Pickens with Continental Airlines staff at Operation Pet Lift in Baton Rouge

The plane was retrofitted so that pets could fly in the passenger cabin as well as the cargo hold, their crates secured in the seats of the plane. Pets were loaded on board and flown to Rancho Santa Fe, where they were able to receive improved care and more individualized attention.

It's hard to believe it's been five years since Operation Pet Lift.  The effort caught the attention of the world's news media, as well as animal lovers who sent in food and supplies for the abandoned pets.  Many pet owners were later reunited with their pets after the floods -- pets that they were forced to leave behind, not knowing what would become of them.

Continental Katrina Operation Pet Lift Rescue
Pets being loaded in the cargo hold at Operation Pet Lift in 2005

For her efforts in the Katrina pet rescues, Pat Spicer was awarded the 2007 IPATA Millie Woolf Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes a lifelong committment to the safe, reliable transportation of pets and further advancing the international pet travel community.  Pat is a true asset to the pet transportation industry and we encourage pet owners in New Orleans who might be looking for pet taxi and travel assistance to reach out to K-9 Cab Pet Taxi.
 
Katrina rescue volunteer, Pat Spicer of K-9 Cab Pet Taxi

Katrina rescue volunteer, Pat Spicer of K-9 Cab Pet Taxi

Blogger Spotlight: Molly Mednikow, Founder and Executive Director of Amazon CARES

Tuesday, August 24, 2010
by Caitlin and Rachel on BlogPaws
Here at PetRelocation.com, we love offering up-to-date information about pet moving and travel, picking the right dog crate, etc..., but we know that the pet community is interested in learning about bigger issues and charities around the world, too. On that note, we thought we'd tell you about Amazon Community Animal Rescue, Education and Safety (CARES), an organization that works to improve life for humans and animals throughout the Peruvian Amazon. Founded in 2004 by Molly Mednikow with the goal of working to protect the stray animals so often found in this part of the world, Amazon CARES stands up for the most powerless among us.

A Tennessee native with a background in business, Molly decided to pack up and move to Peru when previous charity work brought her there a few years ago. After witnessing the tragic amount of animal suffering in cities like Iquitos, Molly decided to sell her share of her family's business and put her money where her heart was. Thus was born Amazon CARES, which would eventually become a busy and broadly-reaching charity with several ongoing projects including a vet clinic, a no-kill shelter, rescue programs and volunteer opportunities.

We’ve asked Molly, who will be attending BlogPaws 2010 West next month, to answer a few questions about her experiences, her motivations and her advice on how to become involved. Thanks, Molly, and keep up the great work!

What improvements has Amazon CARES made possible since it began?

No domestic animal welfare organizations exist in the Peruvian Amazon, with the exception of Amazon CARES.  Since 2004 we have managed to stop local governments from mass culling of street dogs via poisoning or shooting.  We also forced a traveling circus out of the city by exposing their paying people for live domestic animals to feed their tigers. The number of abandoned and sick dogs on the street is greatly reduced.  In the beginning we had to beg people to sterilize their pets. Now, whenever we have a free mobile clinic, we have to deal with crowd control!
 
You lived in Peru for four years. What was an average day like there?

I still spend months of each year in Peru, and my day is much like another person’s day.  Except that I travel to work by boat instead of car! I live on the same property as our no-kill shelter and it is comfortable but rustic. We have a generator but my hours are very much dictated by the sun.  I live surrounded by exotic trees, plants, animals, and of course, dogs. The day starts early, before the heat sets in, and the “Guardian” for the property takes me to town via a 30 minute boat ride. 

We have a modern office with air conditioning in the center of town. The veterinary clinic is operated by a great team of professionals, all Peruvian. I work at the computer in the office. I usually do not take the two hour lunch break when the office closes from 12 p.m.  to 2 p.m. However, since I live in the jungle, I have to leave early each day, by 5 p.m. at the latest, to make sure we (the Guardian and me) don’t get lost in the dark on the Amazon River.

The food at the jungle shelter is delicious. I always prefer staying there rather than in town. At night, I usually read and go to bed early.
 
What are the biggest challenges or surprises you’ve encountered since this charity began?

After the charity had been open for six months, I began to realize that I had failed to deal with cultural attitudes towards animals within the Amazon CARES staff! I just assumed they understood what I understood.  After attending a Humane Society International conference I realized that I had to teach them about animal welfare and sensitivity towards the very animals they were being paid to care for. I used to scrub the kennels because I was dissatisfied with how others did the job. However, I had not taught them the WHY behind the WHAT.  Once they understood the high risks of NOT cleaning thoroughly, they changed. 

I tried to help them see life throught the eyes of an abandoned animal, and made sure they knew that every moment spent outside of a kennel is a blessing for a dog or cat. Of course, I dealt with these same cultural differences within the Peruvian community, and changing those perceptions has taken more time, and will be a continuing effort.
 
What can the average person do to get involved in improving animal welfare?


-For a person that has NO TIME, the least they could do is shop through an animal welfare portal site.  We have one at http://www.amazoncares.we-care.com.  All you do is download a toolbar and then whenever you are on one of the MANY participating store sites, a percentage of your purchase is donated to the charity automatically.

-Another form of helping for people with little time is by donating pet food and supplies to shelters.

-Animal transport is always needed and sometimes the routes are convenient for a person anyway.

-One can be very active in helping animals without even leaving their house by utilizing the Internet to spread the word about animals in need of homes, or helpng reunite lost animals with their family.

-A great way to get outdoors and get exercise is to volunteer as a dog walker at a local shelter.

-Many people may have access to resources they are unaware of. Maybe your company is getting brand new copy machines. You might be able to influence where they end up (at local animal shelters). Maybe your boss would be willing to donate office supplies or sponsor an event for a shelter.

When did you realize social media could play such an important role in the work that you do?

I have always been an early adaptor. Heather McCallister of DIOSA Communications and her webinars and her blog have really helped me learn and stay up-to-date.  Working from Peru, I knew I had to get the word out to potential donors in the United States. Twitter is my favorite choice. I never feel like Facebook is really out to help non-profit organizations, and they are always changing their policies and formats. I knew early on that social media would be essential. In order to bring more exposure to Amazon CARES I make sure our blog focuses on our issues but is also very broad in writing about other topics, charities, etc.

We heard you’ll be attending BlogPaws 2010 West. What are you most looking forward to?

The workshops at BlogPaws are a highlight for me. They are focused and the speakers are not too self promoting.  There is a general air of sharing and learning that I have not experienced at other conferences. I also love putting a face to many names I know from social media. I am rooming with Katy McDougal of Teeny's Friends charity. Though we’ve never met in person, I already feel we are great friends!

Pet travel lessons learned from one couple's DIY pet move

Monday, August 23, 2010
by Rachel Farris
While we know our door-to-door pet travel services are top-knotch, we also recognize that they sometimes aren't be the best solution for everyone.  A huge factor when deciding whether or not to a pet relocation service is your anticipated budget, along with time constraints and individual travel logistics.  We often equate  the process of moving your pets with building a deck.  With the right supplies, information, planning and, yes, heavy lifting, anyone can build a deck.  However, most people don't have the time or resources to handle building a deck from scratch.  While it can cost more to hire a contractor to build a deck, ultimately you'll save yourself some struggle along the way.

But what if you simply can't afford pet travel services?  With a "Can-do!" attitude, moving your pet on your own is a possibility.  We read a post over at Wild Dingo today about a couple who moved their two dogs, Juno and Loki, from San Francisco to Geneva, Switzerland.  Their experience offered several lessons to be learned about how to move pets on your own, so we thought we'd recap them here:
  1. Training, Training, Training.  While regular readers of our blog know how important it is to crate train their pets prior to travel, the Wild Dingo blog really drives the point home.  In San Francisco, to "escape the hustle and bustle of the airport" the dogs happily hopped into their crates.  They credited this with the crate "games" they'd played in advance.  Another more touchy situation came when, while going through customs clearance, one of their dogs slipped out of his collar.  Because their pets had been obedience trained, a simple "Come!" command sent their dog trotting back over to them. 
     
  2. Ask for help.  In Mr. and Mrs. Wild Dingo's case, they enlisted the help of a couple of friends to drive the van with the dogs in it to the airport, while the pet owners followed behind in a rental car.  "Sure, they look a little unprofessional, but for the price of a few beers and a sushi lunch, you just can't go wrong," they wrote on their blog.  If you can't find a friend to help, there are always a lot of local pet relocation and pet taxi services who will arrange the origin (delivery to the airport) services for you.  Check out IPATA.com for a full listing.
     
  3. Don't forget to have fun.  We've written a lot about how pets can pick up on your stress levels, which can often cause your pets unnecesary anxiety.  For Mr. and Mrs. Wild Dingo, their whole post recapping their pets' travel exudes a definite sense of confidence and calm, even in some particularly hairy situations!  In most of the pictures, Mrs. Wild Dingo is seen smiling and, despite a stressful situation, you can tell they were enjoying observing their pets' reactions to traveling.  This kind of attitude can make a world of difference in a pet's mental state.
We give the Dingo family an A+ for their excellent travel preparation and a fun recap to go with it!  With the right kind of attitude, even international pet moving doesn't always have to be stressful! 



Looking for additional pet travel resources?  Check out MyPetRelocation, a free online guide to moving and traveling with your pets!

Feeling stressed about pet travel? Three tips to keep you calm!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010
by Rachel Farris
Stressful pet move?The day before the big move.  Kids are deciding which Barbies and Hotwheels to keep, you're throwing the last of the bathroom supplies in a box and that carefully planned packing list?  You packed it under your grandmother's china hours ago.  

But what about the pets?  Here are some last minute reminders to make sure your pets don't get caught in the moving day fray.

1.  Check over the crates.

We can't stress enough how important it is to make sure your pet's travel crate is up to travel standards before you get to the airport.  Bottom line: You do not want to be that person at the airport whose pets get refused for check-in because of a crate problem.  Go over the three S's of crates:  size, safety and style.

Size - Are your pets able to stand up comfortably in their crates, with 2-4 inches of clearance over the top of their heads when standing?  What about turn around?  The crate size is crucial to your pet's comfort, safety and ability to get on the flight at all.  A good rule of thumb: if it looks too small, it probably is.

Safety - Use zip ties to secure the bottom half of the crate to the top half, as the plastic bolts can sometimes become loose or break in transit.  You'll also want to have a few spare zip ties to secure your pet's crate door after you get him checked in.  Does your pet have a comfortable-fitting collar on with your new contact information and location?  Is there a leash attached to the top of the crate?  If someone needs to take your pet out of his crate in an emergency, they will need a way to securely walk him.

Style – For travel under the passenger cabin, crates must be hard-shelled plastic with ventilation on at least three sides (for international travel, ventilation is required on all sides). Collapsible crates made of wire or mesh are not accepted in the cargo hold. Got a snub-nosed pet? Snub-nosed breeds, like Pugs, bulldogs and Persian cats, should travel in crates with ventilation on all four sides to allow them plenty of air-flow.

2.  Keep them hydrated.

Water is your pet's best friend when traveling, but you can also help your pet beforehand by making plenty of water water available to him the day leading up to the flight.  Stressed out pets can sometimes forget their basic needs (like food and water) so be sure to monitor your pet in the days leading up to the flight to make sure they are not growing increasingly dehydrated.  Pushing on your pet's gums is a quick test for catching dehydration.  If you push your thumb into your pet's gums and the color does not quickly return, it could be a sign that your pet is getting dehydrated.

Your pet will need two bowls of water in his crate that are accesible from the outside of the crate door (so the airline doesn't have to open the door in order to pour the water in).  We advocate freezing water in the bowls the night before so that it won't splash around on the way to the airport.  We also send our clients funnels to attach to the outside of the crate door.

3.  Plan the paperwork!

Your pet's travel documents -- health certificate, rabies certificate and any other required documents for your pet's move -- are his ticket to fly, so you'll want to make sure that all your paperwork is in order before you even head to the airport.  Regulations change frequently, so the day before the flight, call the airline you plan on using and go over your paperwork to make sure you have all the documents you'll need in order to check in. 

Finally, take a deep breath.  Remember that your pets will pick up on your stress levels so by staying calm yourself, so will your pets.

International Pet Relocation: travel supplies for pets

Friday, June 25, 2010
by Pet Travel Questions
What do we need to fly our 2 yr old dog to Switzerland? I know he needs a microchip, health certificate, up to date on shots and that kind of stuff, but what supplies and how does that all work? I have read flying in the summer can be hard on the dogs. He is 60 pounds, so he is too big to ride in the cabin (from what I have read).
 
Hi Kim,

Thanks for your online question! You are correct, your mini-Labradoodle would be too large for in-cabin travel (pet has to be able to fit under seat in front of you IN their travel crate. 

You can find info on import rules and requirements specific to Switzerland  on our website, www.petrelocation.com, as well as interesting facts and stories about the country in general!

Regarding "supplies" needed for dog travel: you will need an airline approved crate.  Should you choose to hire us, we will supply a "welcome pack" that includes the appropriate stickers for the travel kennel, water funnels and trays, as well as identifying tags and stickers for pickup at destination point. 

We fly with preferred pet safe, pet friendly airlines which have established  programs and policies in place regarding temperature controlled travel and safe transport of live animals.   An great example of an airline which has such a program in place is the Continental Airlines Pet Safe Program.

Another article of intrest for relocating your pet during summer months might be our mandatory summer travel requirments for pets. 

Also, please call us at 1-877-PET-MOVE if you would like to explore the option of having one of our phenomenal International Specialists (categorized by region) to facilitate your dog's entire relocation process to Switzerland!

All the best to you and your mini-Labradoodle's brand new, exciting journey to Switzerland! 
 

Top Five Pet Friendly Destinations to Travel to with Pets on KLM Cargo

Tuesday, May 25, 2010
by Rachel Farris

We move pets all the time using KLM and have outlined some pet friendly perks of the top destinations accessible on KLM Cargo flights. 

1.  Amsterdam, Netherlands

In addition to hosting the AF-KL Cargo Animal Hotel at its main airport, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, the city of Amsterdam offers pet lovers plenty of pet friendly options.

The Ibis Amsterdam City Stopera hotel is ideally located in the city centre a few minutes from the Stopera Opera House Dam Square Rembrandtplein and Waterlooplein.  They allow up to two dogs per night for a fee of 5 euros/night per dog.  Pet owners who want to get out and enjoy some of the Netherlands beautiful parks can stop by Sarphatipark, which has a doggie playground on the opposite side of a small pond.  It's also conveniently located to Albert Cuyp Market, which makes a great picnic stop!  De Bakkerswinkel also offers outdoor seating for pets and their owners.

Since Amsterdam is AF-KL Cargo's main hub, there are plenty of pet friendly flights for pets from the US and other international airports all over the world.  Pets that fly into Amsterdam will need to clear through customs at Schiphol and will need to meet the Netherlands Pet Import Rules.

We moved Murphy to Singapore using KLM Airlines - here he enjoys a ride on a pedicab!We moved Murphy to Singapore using KLM Airlines - here he enjoys a ride on a pedicab!2. Singapore, Singapore

Singapore is a popular destination for expats and their pets.  There are plenty of leash-free dog parks available in Singapore where pets can run and socialize.  Bishan Park Dog Run, one of the largest dog parks in Singapore, is fenced in and centrally located.  Weekends can get cramped but it has some perks:  big breed dogs are kept separated from small-breed pets at the park.  While the park is open daily 24 hours, it is only lit from 7pm-7am.   For more dog parks, check out Time Out Singapore's dog park rundown!

AF-KL Cargo offers pet flights to Singapore Changi from their hub in Amsterdam.  For information on rules and requirements for moving your pet to Singapore, see our Singapore Pet Travel page.

3. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Every dog has its day in Kuala Lumpur!  Dogathon, an annual carnival of dogs and their owners, was started in 1997 as a 2.5km run to benefit Pro-Kasih, a public education program that supports catch-and-release spay and neuter services to help control Malaysia's stray dog problems.  Now in its thirteen year, the Dogathon offers games and events for pets and their owners. 

Pets can travel to Malaysia via AF-KL Cargo's pet flights from Amsterdam, but will need to fulfill a seven-day mandatory quarantine upon arrival in Kuala Lumpur at the government quarantine facility. Check out our Malaysia Pet Travel page for more details.

4. Stockholm, Sweden

If you're looking for a pet friendly place to stay in Stockholm, try the Grand Hotel Intercontinental, which allows up to two dogs of any size for no additional fees.  For a little exercise for your pooch, check out Vasaparken, a dog-friendly park located in Vasastaden and named after the Royal Vasa Dynasty.  Your pet will feel like he's king of the castle!

Don't forget to check out the Sweden Pet Travel rules before you go.

Here's Wheezy, a Boston Terrier we moved to Bali using KLM Airlines!Here's Wheezy, a Boston Terrier we moved to Bali using KLM Airlines!5. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is an exotic location that has been booming with tourism and business-which means the pets followed shortly behind!  The Bali Street Dog Foundation is a non-profit animal welfare organization that aims to reduce the numbers of unhealthy, neglected street dogs in Bali and hosts occasional events to raise awareness.  Most recently, they had a Fun Walk for Animals to help raise money to control the spread of rabies within Bali.  If you run out of supplies for your favorite pet, not to worry:  the Bali Pet Shop has four locations in Sanur, Denpasar, Kuta and Seminyak selling "complete products for your lovely animal."

 

Pet Travel Requirements for Hungary

Wednesday, March 24, 2010
by Rachel Farris

Petrelocation.com - Pet Import Requirements for Hungary

Documents Required:

 

** Please make sure your vet is 'USDA Accredited' & ALL signatures are in BLUE INK **


____ Original Health Certificate (form 7001) issued by a USDA Accredited Vet
____ Dual Language Health Certificate – not older than 10 days
____ Original Rabies Vaccination Record
____ Printed History of Pets Vet Records
____ Copy of Owner's Original Passport
____ EU Entry Form
____ Copy of Visa or Work Permit
____ Copy of Airway Bill if pets are sent as cargo – supplied by PetRelocation.com
 

* All of these documents, except for the Airway Bill, needs to be sent to your local USDA Office for their stamp of approval – within 10 days of the departure date.

 

 

Please Note:


* The Rabies must be done more than one month, but not more than 12 months, prior to the date of departure.


* A Microchip is required and the microchip number must be put on the vaccination or health certificate.


* Copy of Health certificate, copy of Rabies Vaccination, copy of Airway Bill, and copy of owner's passport with International visa should be available for us ten working days prior to pet arrival.

 

* Please note, that the Veterinary Ministry of Hungary also requires a minimum 3-day advanced notice to set up Vet clearance at Customs and will not clear on Weekends, without prior notice.

Singapore - Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station

Monday, July 20, 2009
by Rachel Farris

With summer travel coming up, at PetRelocation.com we decided it would be a great idea to remind people about Singapore's Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station (SAQS) guidelines and remind them that the SAQS tends to fill up very far in advance. It is a good idea to make your travel arrangements now if you are planning on moving to Singapore this summer!

Also, please enjoy the helpful tips and information about the SAQS below.

Singapore Animal Quarantine Information

The Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station (SAQS) provides a 30 day mandatory quarantine for imported dogs and cats. This is to ensure that diseases such as rabies are not introduced into Singapore.

IMPORTANT NOTE: AVAILABILITY OF QUARANTINE SPACE

Due to surge in demand for quarantine space, PetRelocation wishes to advise that SAQS is very heavily booked.

In order to avoid disappointment and to ensure that your travel plans for your pets are smooth, we must apply for quarantine space at least 2 (two) months in advance of anticipated arrival of the pets in Singapore.

Your pets will be placed on the waitlist and PetRelocation will inform you of space availability approximately one month prior to your indicated date of arrival of your pets.

How it works:

Part 1 – To make reservation of quarantine space on your behalf (at least two months in advance of anticipated arrival) we must have the completed reservation forms sent back upon engagement of our services. PetRelocation will provide you with the following blank forms:

__ Acceptance of Animals Form ("AA Form")

__ AVA Application for Permit to Import Animals

__ Authorization Letter

__ Authorization for Veterinary Services ("AVA Vet Form")

__ Indemnity for Elderly Pet Form (if necessary)

Part 2 – We will be able to confirm availability of quarantine space approximately one month prior to date of arrival of your pets.

Part 3 – We will need to send your pet in to arrive on the specified quarantine arrival date, as a delay of more than 2 days will result in the spot being forfeited and we will have to begin the process over again (this is the government policy, not a PetRelocation policy).

Helpful Information About Sembawang Quarantine Station

Location:

Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station
10 Lorong Chencharu Singapore 769197
Tel: (65) 64822724
Fax: (65) 64822726

Field for Dog-Walking

Fields are available for owners to walk their pets while in SAQS. 15-minute slots are available on a first come, first serve basis and by booking only.

Field for Dog Walking at SAQS

Exercise Hours:

Monday through Saturday: 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM

Sundays & Holidays: Closed.

Visiting Hours:

Monday through Friday: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Saturdays: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Sundays & Holidays: Closed.

Quarantine Discharge Hours:
Monday through Sunday, including public holidays: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Ø How long is the quarantine period & when does the time start?

o Cats and dogs, with the exception of those described above are required to undergo a minimum 30-day quarantine. The quarantine period is regarded to have started after the Rabies vaccination is given. Extensions, though rare, are at the sole discretion of the government.

Ø Does my pet have to have a Rabies vaccination, especially if he just received one?

o Yes, the Rabies vaccination is compulsory irrespective of current vaccination status.

Ø What about other vaccinations or treatments?

o Dogs must have current routine vaccinations (more than 2 weeks, less than 1 year) for distemper, hepatitis, rabies and parvovirus. Puppies under 4 months of age must have received 2 vaccinations, one month apart, the latter at least two weeks prior to entry into Singapore.

A/C Dog Kennel at SAQS

Cats must be vaccinated against Cat Flu( Feline calcivirus, Feline viral rhinotracheitis, Chlamydia psittaci ) & Cat Enteritis( Feline Panieukopaenia / Feline parvovirus ) at least 2 weeks but within 1 year from its date of import.

Cattery at SAQS

o All imported dogs and cats must be certified treated against external parasites (ticks & fleas) between 2 to 10days prior to export & internal parasites (nematodes and cestodes) within 4 days prior to export to SIN.

Ø As I travel frequently, can I have a friend visit my pet?

o It is important that any visitor - other than the owner(s) as stipulated on the importation permits and quarantine application forms - have a written letter of authorization from the owner(s) to permit access to the quarantine station.

Ø Is there a veterinarian on duty, and if so, when?

o No, other than SAQS staff, a private Veterinarian will be called for when SAQS or Owner requests treatment.

Ø What type of food is given to the animals at the quarantine station, & how often are they fed?

o Animals are fed once or twice daily, depending on owner's request on dry pet food. The current brand is "Sportsmix". Owner can get us to supply any other brand of food of their choice.

Ø My pets require a special diet &/or medication - will someone give these?

o Arrangement for specialty diets if notified in advance of the pet's arrival into the quarantine station. While Singapore has many commercial and premium pet foods available, if your pet has distinct or non-typical requirements, it is vital to ensure that stocks are available there, or alternatively, personally supply a particular diet to the quarantine station for the duration of the confinement period.

o If your pet requires medication for any existing condition it is very important that this is supplied by the owner(s) in sufficient quantity to last through the entire quarantine, and that PetRelocation is informed in advance of these requirements. Should any existing condition require veterinary attention, the owner(s) will incur veterinary fees.

Ø Can I bring my own food, toys, pillows, bedding etc. for my pet?

o Yes, authorized persons may provide such items to pets in the station, but at the owner's risk. Any such items may have to be destroyed at the end of the quarantine period.

Ø What preventative health measures should be taken during the quarantine period?

o Animals may be exposed to a variety of potentially serious diseases whilst in quarantine. Many can be prevented with the appropriate prophylactic measures. All routine vaccinations should be current, for dogs (& cats) heartworm prophylaxis should continue throughout the quarantine period (if not currently taking heartworm preventatives, these should be started within 4 - 6 weeks of arrival in Singapore), dogs should be kept free of ticks (tick-borne diseases are common here) and cats free of fleas. Due to the hot and humid environment it is recommended that dogs be bathed weekly (with "deticking" on arrival and discharge) to minimize dermatological complaints and heat stress.

Ø When are pets discharged after their quarantine is finished?

o Pets that have completed their quarantine period are discharged Monday to Sunday between 10.00 a.m. to 11.00 p.m., include public holidays. For dogs, the regulations of the Animal Control Centre (AVA) require the presentation of the mandatory dog license prior to release.