The last week isn't where a move is won. It's where a well planned move simply happens, and a badly planned one runs out of room. The export papers are dated, and once they're issued the clock doesn't stop.
In the week
- The local vet's fit to fly certificate, then the AQCS check: he and the whole file go to the quarantine office about a week before, by appointment. The export certificate is good for 10 days.
- Keep the crate practice going and make it longer.
- Clip his nails.
- Swap an expensive collar and lead for cheap ones. They often go missing in transit.
- Set aside a small bag of his favourite food to fix on top of the crate.
On the day
- Clip your pet's nails before the move.
- Follow the written feeding and hydration plan agreed with your veterinarian and the operating airline for this animal and itinerary.
- IATA asks for absorbent bedding suitable for the animal, so a blanket goes in, along with an old article of your clothing that smells like home. The water container is fixed inside the box and fillable from outside. If bedding gets soiled in transit the airline may remove it and replace it.
- Put your pet in the travel carrier box before it is collected. Usually the pet moving team will load your pet into the box.
- Secure a small supply of your pet's favourite food on top of the box, so the airline can feed your pet in transit if there is time.
- Toys and bones are not banned by IATA, but some airlines do not allow loose items in the box, so we check it against the carrier operating your flight before you pack anything.
- Remove the collar and lead and secure them on top of the box. Keep expensive collars and leads with you and substitute cheaper ones, because they are frequently lost in transit.
- Certain airlines require additional steel meshing on pet travel crates.
Collection
Have him in his crate before the team arrives; usually the team loads him in themselves. Someone from our team rides with him to the airport and stays with him up to the handover.
Source: IKAN Lola's published departure preparation, and IATA Live Animals Regulations, 52nd edition, Container Requirement 1 on bedding, water and feeding.