Tips on ETSing with Pets.

The following list of tips is not my own. I got this from my Veterinarian. I found it extremely useful so I know someone might also in the future.

*Schedule a nonstop flight whenever possible, fly early in the day, when there is less chance for delays and avoid busy holiday and weekend travel.
*Fly major US airlines rather than the new cu-rate carriers where personnel may not have had animal care training. Some major airlines such as American Airlines send their cargo handlers to a class called "Pets are Customers Too".
*During hot weather fly early in the morning or in the evening to keep your pet out of the heat.
*Don't use an inadequate container. By Department of Agriculture standards, a proper carrier "must allow room for the animal to stand, sit breath, and rest comfortable." It should be easy to open; strong enough to withstand shipping hazards, and free of objects that could cause injury. A solid leak proof floor that is covered with litter or absorbent lining is essential. The container must have side rims, so other cargo cant be shoved against it, blocking ventilation, and it should be labeled "live animal" on the top and on one side. Also must have grips or handles for carrying.
*Don't give your pet a tranquilizer- unless the veterinarian prescribes one.
*Make sure your name, address, telephone number, and the pets destination are on top of the container.
*If you are sending your pet as checked baggage, verify that the baggage claim tag shows the correct destination and is securely attached, Also mark he container with Pets name.
*Before you board, ask the attendant at the boarding gate to phone the cargo area to make sure your pet is being placed on your flight.
*Carry a leash so you can walk your pet before and after flight. Remember that you are your pet's only advocate when you fly him or her by air. Take all necessary precautions and don't hesitate to question what you are being told by the airlines transporting your pet.

Flying Air Mobility Command (MAC)
The only pets allowed on MAC flights are dogs and cats. Shipping a pet is not one of your entitlements s you will need to pay for the shipping. Be sure to inform transportation to reserve a space for your pet shipment on each place. Your pet must fly on the same plane as you. Fees to sly your pet on MAC are as follows:

If the total weight of your pet and his.her carrier is

Between 1-70 pounds the cost is $90.00
Between 71-99 pounds is $170.00

If your pet and his/her carrier weigh 100 pounds or over, you can not ship it on MAC. Only two pets per family are allowed on MAC.

Flying Commercial Airlines with your pets:
Commercial airlines accept pets as cargo. Cost depends on weight and size of the animal and the container. Pet shippers frequently serve the US Military are:
Pet Air Shipping: 069-690 71915 or 71916
Gradlyn Kennels: 069-690 50081
Shipping your pet adds a few chores to your list of things to do when you move. A little planning can keep those chores and last minute problems to a minimum. As soon as you know when and where you are moving, start checking in to modes of travel for your pet and make reservations early.

30 Days Before Departure:
Schedule an appointment to take pet to Veterinarian. Although the required health certificate must be issued within 10 days of departure, that is enough time to treat some alignments that prevent certification. The Certificate verifies that an animal has no infectious diseases and has received any required vaccinations. This is also the time to check the status of your dog's annual rabies vaccination. If an inoculation is required, that shot must be administered 30 days before your departure, To prevent quarantine in the States.

15 Days Before Departure: 
Acquaint your pet with the carrier. Veterinarians and experienced pet owners suggest putting the animal's food, water, and toys inside the carrier to encourage the pet to enter and become familiar with the container. Flight-approved carriers priced between $29 and $150, depending on size, are available at most Exchanges. Purchase a carrier that allows room for the animal to stand and turn, Make an appointment at this time also to get your pet's health certificate.

Departure Day
The day of departure give the pet a light meal. Animals, just like people, are more likely to get an upset stomach if they travel after eating a big meal.


House Hunting with Your Pet
How will having a pet affect my finding a house or apartment? You may find that trying to locate housing is more difficult when you have a pet. Many landlords will not rent to pet owners. If they do rent to pet owners, a non-refundable deposit is required. This non-refundable deposit can amount to one or two months rent over and above the regular security deposit and first months rent. Realtors in the states describe three levels of landlords when it comes to renting to pet owners:
Those who will not accept any pets.
Those who will accept only pets under 20 lbs.
Those who will accept any pets (very rare).

If you have a pet, start your search for housing as soon as possible. Contact Army Community Services (ACS) for information on resources you can use to locate housing at your new duty station (if your PCSing). Once you know your arrival date, there is a centralized reservation system for Army temporary lodging worldwide. Check out to see if they accept pets and if no ask them to give you the name and number of a nearby kennel and make a reservation with them, The toll free numbers for the Army Central Reservation system are:
From Germany- 0130-81-7065
Stateside- 1-800-462-7691

What about my Pet that is not a cat or dog?
Some other pets can be imported, but under very strict US customs regulations.
Birds- Birds entering the US must be quarantined upon arrival for at least 30 days. You will need to reserve quarantine space in advance by submitting VS Form 17-23 (available at American consulates and embassies) with a deposit. The quarantine fees run about $80 per bird. There are restrictions on which bird that can enter the US and should check to make sure you can bring the bird back with you prior to obtaining one.