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Preparing the animals

Preparing animals for entry into other countries requires careful planning to ensure that both the animals and the travellers can enter the country without any problems. Firstly, the entry requirements of the destination country should be thoroughly researched as these can vary from country to country. The most important requirements include a microchip to identify the animal and up-to-date vaccinations, especially against rabies.

Make sure that the chip is readable whenever you visit the vet.

A health certificate from the vet/official vet is essential and should be issued shortly before travelling. Some countries also require special blood tests to confirm the absence of diseases. The transport boxes must comply with international standards (IATA) to ensure the comfort and safety of the animals.
It is advisable to obtain all the necessary documentation in good time to avoid any unpleasant surprises. In addition, it can be useful to find out about the local conditions at the destination to ensure the smooth arrival and import of the animals.

Transporting animals in the cargo hold

Transporting animals in the hold of an aircraft is a common practice, especially for pets, livestock or exotic animals. However, this process requires careful planning and adherence to certain guidelines to ensure the well-being of the animals.

Pet owners must first ensure that their animals are suitable for a flight. This includes a veterinary examination, the necessary vaccinations and compliance with the specific regulations of the destination country. These preparations are crucial to ensure that the animals survive the flight unharmed.

Transport in the cargo hold takes place in special transport boxes or cages that comply with the airlines’ guidelines. Among other things, these boxes must be stable and well ventilated to ensure the comfort and safety of the animals. The size and equipment of the transport containers depend on the type and size of the animal.
During the flight, aircraft cargo holds are continuously monitored for temperature and pressure to ensure optimal conditions for the animals.
Nevertheless, pet owners should be prepared for the fact that the cargo hold may be noisier and more stressful than other means of transport.

Upon arrival, the animals are quickly removed from the cargo hold to minimise their stress and reunite them with their owners as quickly as possible.