Flying to Phoenix in August

I'm planning to travel with my cattle dog in August. I understand the heat issue. However. I need to know what vaccinations must be documented and what airline is the most pet friendly. And where can I find an average size airline approved kennel for the trip? Any vet recommendations?

Bajabrady wrote:I understand the heat issue.

I see no issue with a Heeler, aka cattle dog. Australia is rather hot in general.

Yeah. She's a sturdy beast. And it's only an hour flight. Hopefully she won't hate me. But it's gotta be done.

Check with the airline first to see if they allow your dog.  Many won't take an animal in baggage in August, particularly to AZ. If you are flying from Guad, Phoenix is more than a 1 hour flight; it's 2.75 hrs. for a non-stop.

Good Grief.............flying a dog in cargo in August - that is not a good idea. Way too hot especially to AZ!! Why don't you consider hiring a driver to take you there - cheaper and way more humane for the pup.!

Some airlines have temperature controlled cargo holds. Those are the ones that would probably take a dog in August.

Cheaper? Questionable. Baggege compartments are pressurized and probably cooler than the cabin when flying at 30,000. Airlines that won't take a dog will let me know. Airlines that don't have a restriction I will consider and I'll pose a litany of questions. It's not like I'm approaching this without considering my pets safety. I'll have to investigate all avenues of transportation. And that's why I'm making my inquiries months in advance instead of a day before. I'm well away of the tempatures in Phoenix as well as Guadalajara in August. I'm giving my research due diligence

I know you care about your doggie and I'm sure you'll do the research. It's not so much about the heat while flying or if or not the cargo area is pressurized but more about delays and unplanned events where the dog will be locked in the cargo area and the pressurization or temp might not be controlled on the ground. Sorry, Baja, it's just a bad idea. Too many unplanned things can go wrong. I'll be interested in what airlines are willing to take your pup in August.

Alternatively, why not go on Facebook - Mexpats in Lake Chapala or Mexpats Guadalajara or On The Road In Mexico or Expats in Mexico and ask to ride along with someone driving north. Many folks go back and forth and surly some would like some company and help with the driving. Muy buena suerte!

I'd be interested into finding out what airlines will take a dog in August as well. How long would they be on the tarmac waiting for a ride. Where is the customs and holding area. What part of the airport is the holding area in. What types of facilities are they held in. Will they have access to water once I have received them. What is the handling process and what is the release process. How long will it take for them to be cleared. What paperwork does the airline require so that my dog will not be held up because of something missed dd form and leave me waiting for some silly supervisor to mosey down the passageway. Does the building have air conditioning. Who's on duty that day. Who handles live animals. How long have they been staffing that desk. Simple inquiries that once answered will still not give me piece of mind. Researching the airlines policy on live animals and reviews from plast fliers will help as well.
I not going to make something happen just because I can. If the risks are too great. Fine by me. I'm leaving all travel options on the table. This is just the one i have in front of me currently
I'm not on Facepage.

I know you will do the right thing, but shit happens.

Doesn't mean you can't join Facebook. Those sites are very well populated and responsive and people are very helpful.

Anyway, good luck.

It's not likely that any airline will take an animal if they felt there was any significant risk at all. Dead dogs are bad for business.......

I'm reading up. It seems airlines tighten restrictios for civilians opposed to military with orders. Most if not all will not fly if tempature is forecasted to be over 84 Fahrenheit. There's a few third party fliers that prices start with a low rate of $2500. That price includes white gloved concierge services but not the price of the flight. Obviously I'm in the wrong business! Most likely follow airline guidelines. Or maybe contract to professional pet transportation services.
Things have changed since I've last flown a dog. I flew a cat home from Iraq with less trouble. When did these pet travel agencies pop up? Where did they come up with these outrageous prices for basically doing nothing?

You could consider taking the bus to Phoenix.
I do not know what their pet policy is, but they are airconditioned and comfortable.

Thank you. I'll check into that. Hiring a driver is another option. She's my best companion and her needs will always come before mine. It's the sacrifices we make for our dogs as owners!

I can recommend a driver who will drive your car to Nogales, then he takes the bus back.
PM me if you want more info.