bebe

OK, Northwest has the WORST airline food possible, and there are absolutely no great amenities for long-haul flights like other airlines---BUT---we recently transported 3 cats and one ancient dog when we were moving from Singapore back to the US on Northwest (in cargo). In this case we were worried about the cold temps in Minn. --our tropical cats weren't used to any temps below 75 F and it was a very long flight for the old dog. All came through quite nicely, and I can't say enough good things about the Northwest "Priority Pet" staff in Minn. They had been notified ahead of time about our situation, and were waiting with a heated van. The pets were the first things off the flight in Minn--way ahead of us. They took them back, cleaned the cages out, fed and watered them, and even took the dog for a walk. They also waited with them in a heated van and placed them in cargo just before takeoff on our connecting flight to PA. Our vets in Singapore and our dog's groomer recommended Northwest over all other carriers for animals. Continental temporarily lost our pets a few years ago on the flight over to Singapore. Obviously, carrying on is best for the pets, but in our case it was impossible. Just wanted to let you know that if you do need to check them, it is not an automatic death sentence--the vast majority of pets survive a trip in cargo, and our cats still spoke to us after the trip. Make sure the airline is aware of your concerns and schedule your travel to avoid high temps (at night or early morning). A little kitty Prozac also helps them relax--regardless of which method you choose. Barbara

Catlover

Great Story Bebe!
I bet you were worst for wear and they were fine! LOL
People underestimate the minds and constitutions of cats and dogs.

L

Look, think about what you're saying. You placed your pets in the hands of airline cagro handlers? The vast majority of cats survive? Going into cargo is not an automatic death sentence? Your cats still spoke to you afterward? I wonder what they said.

Catlover

L:
Do you own a cat? If you did, you would understand what all this means to owners.

L

Catlover, meet a another catlover. NO, of course I don't "own" a cat ... one who protrays oneself as an "owner" fails to understand who is really in control. But of course, I do live with cats, and they allow me to love them when it pleases them, and NO, I would not consign them to a cargo hold. Or a wheel well. Or other dangerous habitat. Or put them through what you described on the other posting. Or shove a tranq. up their rumps, or down their little throats. So, I must confess I am no devotee of airliner crago holds. As I view it, if you don't go first class, why go. And cargo's not classy.

S

L,
If you're traveling out of state to Grandma's, you definitely have a choice on what to do with your pet. If you're moving, you will not have the same options. Just as there are horror stories for people traveling, there are horror stories for pets traveling. And "being prepared" will definitely reduce the potential for problems.

"Our cats still spoke to us after the trip" - heck, I know people whose cats give them the cold shoulder if they leave them comfortably at home with plenty of food and water even overnight!

People on this forum pitch all sorts of fits about small children traveling. A cat yowling non-stop for a long flight would drive me bonkers. Let's not forget about the people who are so allergic to cats it sets off asthma attacks. Gee, what would that do to an airline schedule to have to accomodate a passenger who stopped breathing due to someone else's inconsideration in bringing a cat on board.

Get on a forum with dedicated show pet breeders. THey can give all the ins and outs of transporting animals, the horrors, the suggestions, and the best airlines to make everything easier on the beloved pet and owner.

Tammy

had to relay our story about transporting an animal on Northwest. Our "baby girl" dog Mollie (9 week old collie pup) traveled from her birth place of Columbus Ohio to her new home in Spokane Washington aboard Northwest. We would not allow Mollie to travel cargo but Northwest allowed her to ride in her sky kennel in 1st class. The flight attendants gave her drinks and petted her on occassion. She had a layover in Minneapolis and horror of all horrors-her flight was cancelled to Spokane. Northwest however put her up in a good kennel and gave us the phone # of the kennel. We called and learned who was caring for her and exactly what her situation was. the next day Mollie arrived in Spokane safe and sound. We were grateful for Northwest's treatment of Mollie! Anybody who loves their pets feels like they are indeed a family member!

Sam

My brother raises puppies on his farm in Kentucky and often transports the pups to their new home via Northwest, US Airways or Continental. He has been pleased with all three and has never had a mishap. He doesn't let them fly if the temps are extreme, but I don't think the airlines allow this either anymore.

upsydaisy

upupupupupupupupupupupu for L

L

Well, I can recognize when the debate is over. I retire from the field. It has been my pleasure to speak for humane treatment. But it does looks like it's into the hold for the furry ones. May it be a short flight, smooth ride, decent temperatures and friendly sourroundings down there. And may all the baggage handlers have hearts of gold ... we're depending on you.