Emirates Pet Policy for Traveling to India
Traveling internationally with pets requires careful planning and understanding of airline policies to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey for both you and your furry companion. Emirates, one of the world’s leading airlines, offers comprehensive guidelines for passengers traveling with pets. Here’s an overview of Emirates’ pet policy for those flying to India.
Emirates Pet Policy for Traveling to India
Emirates allows the transportation of the following pets:
- Cats
- Dogs
- Birds
However, the acceptance of pets is subject to regulatory requirements and must comply with the destination country’s regulations, in this case, India.
In-Cabin Pet Travel
Emirates does not allow pets to travel in the cabin, except for falcons on flights between Dubai and certain destinations in Pakistan.
Cargo Pet Travel
Pets traveling with Emirates must be transported as cargo. Emirates SkyCargo is the dedicated service for transporting animals, and it ensures that pets are handled with care throughout their journey.
Guidelines for Pets Traveling as Cargo
Booking and Documentation
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- Advance Booking: It is essential to book well in advance to ensure space availability and to comply with all regulations.
- Documentation: Required documents include:
- Pet passport or identification microchip details.
- Vaccination records, including rabies vaccination.
- Veterinary health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian.
- Import permit if required by Indian authorities.
Pet Container Requirements
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- Size and Type: The pet container must be IATA (International Air Transport Association) compliant. It should be large enough for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Ventilation: The container must be well-ventilated but secure enough to prevent escape.
- Food and Water: The container should have water and food bowls, accessible from the outside.
Check-In and Handling
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- Check-In: Arrive at the cargo terminal well in advance of your flight’s departure time to complete all necessary formalities.
- Handling: Emirates SkyCargo ensures pets are handled with utmost care. Pets are loaded last and unloaded first to minimize stress.
Temperature and Comfort
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- Climate Control: Emirates ensures that the cargo hold is temperature-controlled to keep pets comfortable during the flight.
- Stops and Layovers: Pets are given priority handling during stops and layovers to ensure their well-being.
Specific Requirements for Traveling to India
India has specific regulations regarding the importation of pets, which must be strictly followed:
- Microchip Identification: Pets must have a microchip for identification.
- Rabies Vaccination: A valid rabies vaccination certificate is required, showing that the vaccination was administered at least 30 days and not more than 12 months before travel.
- Health Certificate: A health certificate from a licensed veterinarian stating that the pet is fit to travel and free from infectious diseases.
- Import Permit: An import permit issued by the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS) in India may be required.
Preparing Your Pet for Travel
- Health Check: Have your pet checked by a veterinarian to ensure it is fit for travel.
- Acclimatization: Get your pet accustomed to the travel container well before the flight.
- Hydration and Feeding: Ensure your pet is well-hydrated and fed before the journey, but avoid heavy meals right before the flight.
- Calm Environment: Keep your pet calm and reassured before and during the journey to reduce stress.
Conclusion
Emirates provides a reliable and compassionate service for transporting pets to India. By adhering to their guidelines and preparing well in advance, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your pet. Always check the latest regulations and requirements from both Emirates and Indian authorities to stay updated and avoid any last-minute issues. With careful planning and consideration, you and your pet can enjoy a smooth and pleasant travel experience with Emirates.
