Cruising With A Service Dog....everything You Ever Wanted To Know!

I've had those thoughts but booked anyway. :eek: I haven't flown yet with the dog anywhere, much less transcontinental. May have to try a shorter trip to get the hang of it.

 

The good news is that flights from Tampa to Seattle are about evenly divided into two legs, stopping in Chicago for about three hours westbound, and the same in Phoenix eastbound. So in theory, the dog would have two flights with a rest & potty stop halfway there.

 

The bad news is it would be a long day with no doggie breakfast. From what I've read, you don't feed the dog if you are flying in the morning? Just ice chips during the flights.

Since US airports are required to have service dog relief stations within the secure area (minimum one per terminal) starting this coming August, we will now be able to feed our service dogs before flights with domestic layovers! Having these relief areas is going to be great! You would definitely not want to fly through Chicago and use the relief area outside of the secure area right now with the three-hour-long lines to get through security!

I sure hope all the airports abide by the law in time! I would definitely contact the airport your layover is in to inquire about the relief area within the secure area when flying during the upcoming year. Some airports, like JFK, have already opened theirs. Note that many/most will be indoors, so you will need to be sure your dog will potty on command indoors on fake grass.

Boo, is not ADI Certified and you actually got her on a Holland America ship? I'm surprised. She must be very well behaved!

Certification is not required in the US. ADI only accepts non-profit organizations to become members of their organization, so any for-profit programs and private trainers cannot join, and neither can owner-trainers, of course. If a cruise ship leaving from a US port tried to require certification, they would be in violation of the law.

I don't think my next dog will be a Lab or a Golden. I'll be too old to keep up with all the dang shedding and my allergies are getting worse. I sneeze my head off before I go to bed at night and I can't have anyone over for dinner unless they want dog hair with their coffee! I've gone through two vacuums since I've had a Service Dog....I love them but I'm so done with all the hair and keeping the asthma doctor in business!!!!

Have you tried using an air purifier in your home to help with the allergens? Make sure it is one made for allergens. You might want to look into a Roomba robotic vacuum, too. Of course, frequent grooming will help, too, especially if you have a neighbor who can do it for you outside (doing it yourself obviously isn't a good idea, but if you must, wear a grooming apron and gloves, and maybe do it before you get yourself in the shower).

So, does this mean a Poodle is in your future?

For those whose dogs have had the leptospirosis vaccine - is it one shot a year, or is it a series of shots?

 

Does anyone given their dog yak chews?

 

Dianne

The first year, it is a series of two shots, but after that, if you need to continue giving it, it is just one.

Do you mean the Himalayan Chews, which are cheese made of yak milk? My girl got one for Easter and it lasted a couple weeks. It isn't something I would buy often for the price it is at, plus I don't recall if it is fattening or not. My previous girl tried the Puffs that puff like popcorn in the microwave (I burned the first bag because you can't really hear them pop over the sound of the microwave) and liked those. I also have the ground-up food topper which I very occasionally use for some variety (my typical variety makers for her food are Canine Caviar's Dehydrated Veggie Mix and TruDog's Beef Boost ground-up dehydrated beef parts, plus I change the food varieties each bag for both the dehydrated raw and kibble).

Eric, first you need to find a Vet who can fill out the appropriate forms for you. USDA Certified. He will fill out the Aphis 7001 form, do the appropriate blood draw and will let you know about entering Hawaii. You will NOT have to quarantine your dog in Mexico or Hawaii. Most of these laws were meant for people who are flying in with their dogs and the necessary blood titer testing for Rabies is also expected within, I believe 48 hours, which is impossible to do when your coming in via cruise ship.

Hawaii requires a six-month wait before entering after the blood draw for the titer test, which must be sent to a particular lab and it takes a few weeks to get the results back. There are other requirements, such as presenting either certification from an ADI-member program or a doctor's letter attesting to the disability, as well. You must contact Hawaii in advance. If flying, you can only fly into a certain airport to enter Hawaii before you can fly to the other islands. I am sure they make an exception to that rule for cruise ships because the handler can't control the itinerary - I believe I asked them years ago, but don't remember what the answer was.

Is anyone else participating this year in the free eye exam for service dogs? This is a wonderful program sponsored by AVCO, the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists. I think registration is closed now for 2016, but highly recommend it for next year.

 

Raylene had hers this morning - luckily the specialist vet is just a few miles from home, because we had torrential rain. It was so bad, she refused to jump out of the back seat - that was a first! - so I had to drag her out and towel her off inside.

 

We go every year because Raylene had a small, breed-typical cataract in one eye which led to her career change from Guide Dogs for the Blind to Dogs for the Deaf. Now she has them in both eyes, but after dilating and thoroughly examining, the vet today says, as they always do, that she doesn't think they'll ever give her any trouble but does recommend the annual check-up.

I signed up, but kept forgetting to call for an appointment! I don't know if they'll still have any available, but I will call if I ever remember to do so during business hours! I participated twice with my previous service dog, including the first year they did it.

I love this.....except, some of them are placed in the most inconvenient areas. They're either outside of the security area so you have to go out and return through the long lines again. We were escorted out and escorted through the long lines in Oregon, it made it so much easier! They won't do this everywhere but it sure is helpful when they do!!!

The new service relief areas are going to be INSIDE the security checkpoint in all airports serving more than a certain number of passengers per year. That way, you don't have to go out, then come back through security.

I have to go through and read about the last ten pages or so. I've not done more than really lightly scan, and for awhile didn't even look. It's been the best of times, but it's also been the worst of times.

Our little Bear, who was a 15 year old shiatsu/poodle mix passed away on the 7th. We knew he didn't have much time left as he had congestive heart failure. He started having episodes that were either fainting or some kind of seizures as well. They'd down him for a bit but then he'd come back with his tail wagging. However, that last day he'd had one for which he didn't recover and couldn't breathe. We had to make that so hard decision. We all took it hard. You think you are prepared....

The best of times is that Jagger is home with me. We finally (mostly me) got our act together and the head trainer felt we were ready. We hope to do our two week Partner Training sometime late summer. Just waiting a few other dogs who are just about there. Then he gets his "big boy" vest.

I'll be excited to really read through the posts and see what you are all up to. :)

Holly

Dear Holly, I was so sad to read that your dear little Bear has passed away. He lived to a great age and I'm sure without any doubt that he was loved so much for every single day he was with you. We all know how hard it is, you are never prepared, so lots of love and hugs to you and your family.

But your future with Jagger is looking bright and full of new adventures, this is good news Holly and we wish you all the success in the world for being together full time with your guy wearing his "big boy" vest!

Sad news and happy news, Holly. So sorry about the little one, and we never forget them, do we? I like to picture my late Misty playing with new friends while waiting for me to arrive some day and join her again.

So happy Jagger is now truly in his forever home.

Oh! Holly! I'm so very sorry about darling Bear. He lives within your heart forever!

Congratulations on Jagger becoming a true family member! I wish you wonderful days ahead ♥

Fly with the Angels, Sweet little Bear. :(, ♥

Good Morning!

The Golf Tournament is over, it was a huge success! We raised a lot of money for children, the elderly and hungry, here in L.A. and in over 50 countries around the world. Extremely rewarding.....and, of course Horton plays a huge roll in keeping everyone [especially my co-workers] smiling.

I was in Petco last night [getting Horty's nails trimmed] and I heard the most alarming, shrill cry from a puppy. Some folks were holding their 3 month old Beagle pup and they dropped her right on her head!!!! I ran to help and fortunately she wasn't bleeding, no broken bones but boy was she scared! Her name was Lola and Horton got a chance to sniff and lick her. We put her down on the ground [after much loving] and she was fine. This could have been a horrible tragedy. Scared the bejeebers out of me and little Lola.

I want to wish you all an easy, restful and fun-filled weekend. Talk to you next week!

Good Morning!

 

The Golf Tournament is over, it was a huge success! We raised a lot of money for children, the elderly and hungry, here in L.A. and in over 50 countries around the world. Extremely rewarding.....and, of course Horton plays a huge roll in keeping everyone [especially my co-workers] smiling.

I bet it was a lot of fun too! Congratulations. :)

I was in Petco last night [getting Horty's nails trimmed] and I heard the most alarming, shrill cry from a puppy. Some folks were holding their 3 month old Beagle pup and they dropped her right on her head!!!!

Oh, that poor puppy! I am so glad that she's alright.

Our class tomorrow is at a park, near where I'll be moving. One of my favorite places as there is much to do and see there. (distractions abound - lol)

Holly

I bet it was a lot of fun too! Congratulations. :)

 

I was in Petco last night [getting Horty's nails trimmed] and I heard the most alarming, shrill cry from a puppy. Some folks were holding their 3 month old Beagle pup and they dropped her right on her head!!!!

Oh, that poor puppy! I am so glad that she's alright.

Our class tomorrow is at a park, near where I'll be moving. One of my favorite places as there is much to do and see there. (distractions abound - lol)

Holly

Holly, you're going to be a wonderful leader and you and Jagger will be a great team.

Poor puppy! He may never want to set paw into a Petco again.

Can it be Friday again so soon? Hope you have a good and relaxing weekend too, Roz!

Poor puppy! He may never want to set paw into a Petco again.

 

Can it be Friday again so soon? Hope you have a good and relaxing weekend too, Roz!

Chris, honestly, I wanted to scoop that little darling up and take her home with Horty and me......except, I've had a Beagle and although they're adorable as pups, they can't be kept busy enough! If that couple thinks that Lola is a "squirmy" little worm now, wait til she's a bit older and wants to dig her way out of the backyard!!!

Can you believe how the days are flying......I wish the days would slow down so we could feel like we're living each day, just a bit!!!

Sorry I haven't been here in a while. Hope everyone is well. I glanced back a couple of pages and Joy caught my eye. What a beautiful dog. My first dog was a chocolate lab, so I have a soft spot for them.

We have been very busy with wedding preparations. On Wednesday night, our wedding venue burnt down. It was devastating. The kids were hysterical. The worst thing that could have happened. The brides mother, who is superwoman, scrambled and found us a new venue. This place has really stepped up and are trying to duplicate the wedding as much as possible in a week. The dj and officiant from the other venue are coming to the new place. Unbelievable experience! I'm so stressed out right now. 😨

Sorry I haven't been here in a while. Hope everyone is well. I glanced back a couple of pages and Joy caught my eye. What a beautiful dog. My first dog was a chocolate lab, so I have a soft spot for them.

 

We have been very busy with wedding preparations. On Wednesday night, our wedding venue burnt down. It was devastating. The kids were hysterical. The worst thing that could have happened. The brides mother, who is superwoman, scrambled and found us a new venue. This place has really stepped up and are trying to duplicate the wedding as much as possible in a week. The dj and officiant from the other venue are coming to the new place. Unbelievable experience! I'm so stressed out right now. 😨

Oh my gosh! No wonder you're stressed!! Glad you had a week to regroup (and not just a day or two!) The kids will have a story to tell for the rest of their lives. Wexler is in the wedding, right? We want photos afterward!

 

We have been very busy with wedding preparations. On Wednesday night, our wedding venue burnt down. It was devastating. The kids were hysterical. The worst thing that could have happened. The brides mother, who is superwoman, scrambled and found us a new venue. This place has really stepped up and are trying to duplicate the wedding as much as possible in a week. The dj and officiant from the other venue are coming to the new place. Unbelievable experience! I'm so stressed out right now. 😨

Oh wow....so sorry this happened to you and your family. I am glad the new venue is really stepping up.

Deep breath. I have the feeling it will be a beautiful wedding.

Sorry I haven't been here in a while. Hope everyone is well. I glanced back a couple of pages and Joy caught my eye. What a beautiful dog. My first dog was a chocolate lab, so I have a soft spot for them.

 

We have been very busy with wedding preparations. On Wednesday night, our wedding venue burnt down. It was devastating. The kids were hysterical. The worst thing that could have happened. The brides mother, who is superwoman, scrambled and found us a new venue. This place has really stepped up and are trying to duplicate the wedding as much as possible in a week. The dj and officiant from the other venue are coming to the new place. Unbelievable experience! I'm so stressed out right now.

What!!!! This is stuff that movies are made of!!!!

Breathe, just breathe!!!!! Soon the day will be over and the tears will start coming down......because not long ago he was just a little boy, running around and causing havoc........now, he's a man and you get to watch him take on a wife!!!! Memories, enjoy every moment....no matter how stressful!!!!

Awww Cindy, I promise I haven't been anywhere near there! If I was you could certainly say that is what happened! I am glad you have a new venue and surprisingly, things happen for a reason, so this new place must have something in store for you guys. I am getting goose bumps! Hugs and pawrayers. Sista Pony Pants Nancy.

Hi all! I finally caught up!

Rangeley - sounds amazing!

Roz - sounds exhausting!

Wow!

My semester is finally over, grades are posted, and I'm leaving on Wednesday for a conference. A wonderful young lady that we've known for a decade is going to Scooter and house sit since the kids are both out of town. I can't wait until the youngest is back from his co-op in August!

I have spent way too much $$ in Petsmart and Petco, and we don't even have one in town! The closest one is nearly 100 miles away! I believe we are getting one of them in 2018 though.

I just hope the one we get has a doggie day care option that is a good one!

I also got taken in by Bark Box. Since I don't have human kids in the house, and no grand kids, and my daughter took the furry grandpup 100 miles away, I'm spoiling Scooter.

So here he is!

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eMdv0Nv4WjRuTvSnOrAToooiU_3aLaCK4A/view?usp=drivesdk

Thanks for all your uplifting words. Luckily things have worked out. I know everything will be fine but it was stress we didn't need.

I'm not sure if Wexler is in the wedding. She wanted him to carry a basket but we told her we didn't think he would do it. He will be wearing his tux and brides mom is making him a boutonniere. Her mom is doing ALL the flowers and bouquets. Nuts!!! She has made all the decorations for the wedding. She's unbelievable.

Thanks for all your uplifting words. Luckily things have worked out. I know everything will be fine but it was stress we didn't need.

 

I'm not sure if Wexler is in the wedding. She wanted him to carry a basket but we told her we didn't think he would do it. He will be wearing his tux and brides mom is making him a boutonniere. Her mom is doing ALL the flowers and bouquets. Nuts!!! She has made all the decorations for the wedding. She's unbelievable.

Can't wait to see the photos! I'm sure it's going to be the most beautiful wedding. :)