Travelling with a Pet from India to US

Question
Hello Jerry,

  I might be asking a redundant question, but thought I'd go ahead as this involves a pet who is not in his best health.

  My parents might visit me in US(Reno, Nevada) from Bangalore, India, sometime in June '09. They have a German Shepherd, who is around 9 years old. The dog is upto date on all vaccinations. However, he is epileptic and has a recurring skin disease (does not spread to humans). We don't want to leave him with anyone in India during their stay here in US.
 
I understand that for US, we need a certificate from the vet showing the pet's health. Are there any specific requirements for California or Nevada (their first port of entry will be  California)?

  What is the process for pets with health issues? Could we sedate him while traveling? Is one airline better than another one?

Thank you,
Rohith  

Answer
Dear Rohith
I think the advice of any responsible pet shipper would be to NOT
subject the dog to this travel....  Sedation is definitely a NO NO
India has recently incorporated some very difficult entry requirements
for pets to India.  You would need to get this info locally
Entry into USA is very easy.  Health cert issued within 10 days of
travel and a valid rabies vac.
Bringing the dog as excess baggage would be much cheaper, than cargo,
and would clear customs with the owner.  You would get this info from
the passenger reservation people of the airline you select.  I prefer
Lufthansa.
If you list the dog's medical problems on the health cert the airline
will very likely refuse travel.
Wish I had better info for you.
Regards, Jerry Mishler