Dear Bernadette,
Thank you for reaching out with your questions about relocating your Maltipoodle, Sonico, from Los Angeles, California, to the Philippines. We understand that traveling with your pet can seem daunting, but with proper planning, Sonico can safely accompany you on your journey. Here’s what you need to know:
Firstly, while pets do not require a "passport" in the traditional sense, Sonico will need specific health documentation to enter the Philippines. This includes a health certificate endorsed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and up-to-date vaccination records, especially for rabies. Click here to learn more pet import requirements for the Philippines
The paperwork process involves several steps, including a visit to your vet for a health checkup and vaccinations. Following this, the health certificate issued by your vet must be endorsed by the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Given these requirements, we recommend starting this process well in advance of your departure date to ensure everything is in order.
Regarding traveling with Sonico in the cabin, airline policies vary significantly based on the pet's size and the specific airline's regulations. Given Sonico’s size at 25 lbs, he may exceed the size limitations for in-cabin travel on many airlines. Therefore, he will likely need to travel in the cargo hold.
For pets traveling via cargo, selecting an airline with a pet-safe program is crucial. Airlines like United, Lufthansa, and KLM are known for their comprehensive pet travel policies, ensuring pets are handled safely and comfortably throughout their journey. We highly recommend contacting your chosen airline directly to discuss their specific pet travel requirements, including crate specifications and any additional paperwork they might require.
International pet travel, while complex, is entirely manageable with the right preparation. Here are a few steps to ensure a smooth travel experience for Sonico:
Feeling overwhelmed? Our team at PetRelocation is here to assist with every step of Sonico’s relocation process, from paperwork to selecting the right airline, ensuring a safe and stress-free journey to the Philippines.
Ready to Start Planning?
Contact us today to learn more about our services or to begin planning Sonico’s adventure to the Philippines. We’re here to make your pet’s relocation as smooth as possible.