Taking Muffy to Europe--Part I

The other alternative, and the only one for a large pet, is to go in baggage. This can be a harrowing experience for pets, as the areas are often too cold, hot or lacking in sufficient ventilation. Check carefully with the airline and find out the conditions of the baggage compartment. If you are leaving from the U.S., check with the FAA and find out if anyone is in violation of requirements, who has the best safety records, etc. Some airlines, realizing the dangers of baggage compartments to live cargo, may refuse to during extremely high or low temperatures.

If possible, try to get a direct flight. Your pet will be less traumatized, it cuts down on flying time, plus this severely limits the possibility of losing your pet en route.

Once you get to Europe, you may be in for some surprises, especially if you are from the U.S. In this country, dogs and cats are not permitted on public transportation, restaurants, cafes, in many stores, office buildings, etc. In much of Europe, people take their dogs everywhere, and don't appear to be any worse off for it. Americans are so concerned about the "germs" that a dog may bring into a restaurant, but yet Europeans don't appear don't appear to be dying in droves because of their liberal policies. Of course, there are establishments where pets are forbidden, and you probably don't normally take a cat cruising around town anyway.

But while Europeans have a more liberal attitude towards pets in public places, several countries are still plagues with totally ridiculous laws as far as bringing in a foreign pet. Be sure to tune into my next article, which will tell you how to bypass some of these laws, as well as updates on revised rulings in such countries as England and Ireland.

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