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older cat - long haul flight

25 10:08:34

Question
QUESTION: hello!  I am considering taking my 16yr old kitty with me to England. I understand there is a fair amount of paperwork and preparation to do first. My concern/question is really about his age and ability to endure the length of the entire trip, not just the flight portion. What are your thoughts?  Thanks so much, look forward to hearing from you!  Kim and Max

ANSWER: Dear Kim
You give me no idea where you are, or will be flying to UK from!!!
I assume Max is the Kitty??
Max should have a VERY thorough and in depth health exam, including
extensive blood work for kidney, liver and other functions.
Discuss this very carefully with your veterinarian.  Maybe even
get a second opinion.  I have shipped many elderly pets and they do
seem to do very well, if in good health.
Do get started on the UK  DEFRA requirements as these will take over
6 mos before Max can travel to UK.
Regards, Jerry Mishler

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

QUESTION: oops, sorry!  I would be traveling SFO to LHR, and yes, Max is my little ball and chain!  I understand about a thorough exam, and he does have a 'small' heart murmur, but other than that, he is in very good health, albeit some tummy upsets at times (he's a very sensitive kitty!) I guess my concerns are just not knowing how he'll do on the journey, and if there is a greater risk of losing him.  I was thinking of taking him on a domestic flight from SFO to an east coast airport so he could be in the cabin with me, then put him on the Intl leg from the east coast which would be a shorter flight with him being in cargo. Would that make sense?  Can you refer me to any vets who might specialize in pet travel exams and such?  I am in the San Jose, CA area.  Thanks again...

ANSWER: Dear Kim
Yes, this added info helps
I shall refer you to my partner in crime: Sue Andrews with Pet
Transfer in Oakland. tel: 800.330 4738
susan@pettransfer.mpowermail.com
She has had cats all her life and should be expert assistance for
you.
Yes you might consider bringing Max in the cabin as far as
Washington Dulles then as cargo only with either British Air or
Virgin Atlantic to Heathrow.  I could help you with the local
transport, etc
Or, you could consider Continental from Newark to Gatwick.
Stay in touch
Jerry

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

QUESTION: Excellent - thanks.  Will she have my queries already, or shall I email her directly?  I thought the only entry port for England was through Heathrow, so I might look into Gatwick from Newark as you suggested.  How do I contact you directly if I need service assistance for the domestic leg?  Also, to get the paperwork started, do I request that through the DEFRA website?  Thanks again...Kim and Max

Answer
I did copy Sue, but suggest you call her.
Gatwick and Manchester are both entry points.  There may be others.
Check my:  www.actionpetexpress.com    Has my phone #'s and email
Go thru the DEFRA www, but Sue should be able to assist you as well
Jerry