Travels with Nikki

When we humans travel internationally, we investigate health hazards, documentation requirements, security precautions, currency exchange rates, climate variances and dietary differences; and all that just for an extended weekend. If our travel happens to include the family pet, then planning becomes a tad more complicated.

When Diana and I relocated to Yelapa two years ago, our plans included transporting our three year old English Shepherd, Nikki. I researched the requirements. Our carrier of choice, Alaska Airlines, offered extensive information regarding the importation of domestic animals into Mexico. The checklist was complete and concise. I followed it with engineered exactitude. It required the following: the procuring of an approved travel crate, current vaccinations including rabies, a veterinarian’s signed statement on letterhead as to the animal’s overall health and a photo copy of the practitioner’s actual state license. The airlines required confirmed passage twenty-four hours before departure and a fee. In the case of Alaska Airlines, we were alerted that Nikki would be traveling in a pressure/climate controlled environment. We deposited her two hours prior to departure and reclaimed her in Puerto Vallarta within thirty minutes of our arrival.

At some point within the next few weeks, Nikki and I will travel to San Diego to link up with Diana, and assist in welcoming the first grandchild (a daughter). Once again, I began my research into required documentation for Nikki’s return to the USA. A quick online visit to Alaska Airlines merely identified a link to the CDC regarding importation of animals into the USA. After plowing through countless pages on their mega site, I located a reference to individual state’s Veterinary Services Department. Next stop, state of California VSD; the only documentation referenced was the requirement for a rabies vaccination within the prior twelve months. An email sent to confirm this single issue resulted in a response which referred me in turn to the CDC website. Arg! 

Yesterday morning, Nikki and I were off on an early morning panga to PV, a walk down the Malecon, a taxi to Pitillal to the veterinarian--two shots, a return taxi to Los Muertos Pier and a return panga to Yelapa. We opened the door to Casa Azul at 12:21 pm, roughly five hours after our departure.  Health Certificate in hand evidencing current rabies vaccination, we are now armed for imminent departure.

Traveling is stressful; with a pet--doubly so. Allow plenty of time to do your homework regarding the requirements both outbound and inbound. If you are going for a brief stay, consider leaving bowzer/fluffy at home with a sitter or in a kennel. Maybe they would like a break too. Give it some thought!!!     

Commercial Break

Mention Nikki’s name and get one hour free**Some restrictions apply (e.g. you have to rent it for two hours first) Still not a bad deal. All paddles have been treated with a new lightening repellent spray. I have not had a single client struck by lightning since introducing this product. You’re in good hands with Memo. Call 322 146 5064. Happy paddling.