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New Puppy - OH to NJ - Age Restrictions - Follow-up Question

25 10:06:01

Question
QUESTION: I'm working with a breeder in OH to get our new puppy.  She will be 8 weeks old on 6/29.  The breeder can ship her via Continental on that date.  I was hoping to fly out to pick her up on 6/25 (4 days shy of 8 weeks)as my son is getting out of school on that day and I figured I'd have 3 1/2 weekend days to start training her (I work full time).  Continental customer service via email said they won't take dogs younger than 8 weeks (on the phone the rep thought it would be ok) but I would be bringing her with me in the plane.  Do you know who in Continental I could talk to, to see if I can do this?  Thanks,

ANSWER: The 8 wk age is mostly for pets in the cargo area.  No worry if you
can take the dog into the cabin.  Simply put on the health cert that
he/she is 8 wks old.  This is all the airline looks at.  They won't
look at your official dog papers.  Dog will be too young for rabies
vac.  Just fudge a few days on the birthdate for the h.c.
Regards, Jerry Mishler

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Do all puppies need to have a health certificate to fly in the plane?  The breeder commented that she has never been asked for one before and it would be an extra cost to have to go to the vet and get one.  Is this a Continental rule?  Is this an Ohio (leaving) or NJ (arriving) law?  Also, I don't believe a reputable vet or breeder would want to lie on a health certificate.  So, so you know who in Continental I could talk to to request and get approval for this?

Answer
We are only asking for 2 to 3 days for the h.c. to reflect a full
8 wks.  Has nothing to do with reputation!!  The health of the pup
will NOT be compromised, especially in the cabin....
It is for your protection, and the pets, to require a health exam
This is pretty  much an airline rule, as you would not need the h.c.
to drive around the country by car with the pup
I am very surprised the breeder has never needed one.  This sends up
some red flags to me about the breeder !!!!
Hope this helps
Jerry