Travel with Hovawarts, in safety and comfort.

Air travel with a hovawart (or any animal) can sometimes be problematic, so be prepared. First of all check with the airlines for any restrictions that may apply, not every airline can, or will accomodate travel for a dog, so it is important to find out which airlines will; and what the policies are for that airline. Airlines adhere to strict codes of practice concerning the size and type of container (crate/cage) used for animals. Some airlines will only book two large dogs to ride in cargo at any given time. Be sure to check with the reservation staff and verify that your dog will be traveling on a particular flight, especially if you are planning to be on the same flight.

Always try to book a direct flight.

This will not only help to keep the dog's stress levels down, but it will also lessen the chance of the loss of your valuable hovawart. Try to avoid peak travel times and allow the staff and authorities more time to handle your hovawart properly. If you are travelling on the same flight, never assume your dog has actually been put safely onto the plane without verifying it yourself (you visually see the dog go onto the plane), or through someone in authority. This is especially important if there is a stopover or there are connecting flights. Ask an employee to check for you before you take off, and keep asking until you get the confirmation you need. The best airlines have a designated person who deals with all of the details and the loading of animals. Give your hovawart a good walk and drink before he is finally put into the crate and boards the plane.

The crate or container:

You are responsible for the container, or crate that your hovawart will travel in. Purchase an airline-approved travel crate at least a month before the flight. Make sure he gets used to being in it, perhaps feed him in the crate and use it for short practice trips in the car.

In general all dogs must travel in an approved container that meet certain criterion. The container must be large enough for the hovawart to stand, turn around, and lie down in; and must be made of a sturdy plastic. The crate must have a secure all around door locking system with pins that extend beyond (above and below) the door going right through parts of the "body" of the crate. The water and food bowls must be attached to the inside of the front door and be refillable from the outside of the container without opening the door; and there must be ventilation holes on all four sides. The container must have "LIVE ANIMAL" stickers on the top and sides in letters that at least one inch tall. Good brands of modern containers such as Vari kennel/sky kennel come with all the necessary requirements and stickers as standard.

Taped to the outside of the container:- the identity of the hovawart (the name he reponds to is usual) and your (the owners) contact information, and attach an extra copy of all health certificates and ID to the container. Tape a couple of days worth of dry dog food to the outside of the crate just in case it's needed.

Place some vetbed (a blanket) in the crate. Many hovawarts are comforted by a blanket or T-shirt that smells like their owners. The carriers (agents) usually provide a special absorbent material to put on the floor of the crate.

Toys:- only provide good quality toys

that are safe such as the Kong. These are made of a hard rubber that is almost impossible to destroy. They come in many different sizes and have an small opening on one end into which some people put a little peanut butter or cream cheese. That gives the pup/dog something do for a while after you leave. Do not use a lot of peanut butter or cheese, just enough to keep him interested and occupied. It's probably a good idea to remove his collar while he is in the crate.

Never give tranquilizers

Be aware that some medication can lower the respiratory rate and cause difficulty breathing at high altitudes. Make certain that all his vacinations are up to date and have his pet passport ( or a certified copy of all the hovawart's current vaccinations) available for the airlines to check. Remember that rabies vaccinations and perhaps others will need to be given well in advance and a certificate issued confirming satisfactory protection. Different countries have different vaccination requirements, and import rules; you can easily find out exactly what they are through the internet, check the rules at least six months before you plan to have the hovawart fly, giving you plenty of time to understand and comply with the rules. Check them again before he flies, there may have been revisions in the requirements. This will help eliminate the possibility of any quarentine issues.

Make sure he has a supply of water

Freeze a bowl of water ahead of time, this helps to prevent spills, and serves to help keep him cool. Additionaly there are also special water bottle feeders that take a standard 2 liter plastic bottle that are designed to clip to the door of the crate. The hovawart can easily learn how to take water from them long before he has to fly. Make sure he eats a few hours beforehand because an empty stomachs can cause nausea. Make sure he drinks water before the flight, and give him plenty of fresh water once you have arrived at your destination, air travel can have a dehydrating effect on both animals and people, and avoid flying any dog during extreme temperatures (even if the airline allows it).

You must realize that air travel poses a risk with any dog. If your dog happens to be in ill health you should reconsider. If he has any heart or kidney disease discuss your plans with your vet before making any arrangements for your travel; additionally many airlines will not allow unwell animals to fly. A thorough examination by your vet can rule out any obvious health problems before travel.

Finally double check everything, make sure the container or crate is properly labeled and that identification is attached to the outside (possibly the inside as well). Be sure to attach feeding instructions and any medication requirements to the container/crate as well. Be sure to check for liability limits. It is best to speak directly to the airline about this to make sure you are clear on the limits of any liability, and as you are traveling with an economically valuable hovawart consider taking out added liability insurance to cover any loss.

By making sure everything is in order and making sure all your questions are answered (there are no stupid questions), you can be assured of having a safe and happy flight with your hovawart.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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