What does OATS stand for?
OATS is short for, O’Brien Animal Transportation & Services.
What type of information should I consider when making travel arrangements for my pet?
Is your pet going to travel domestically, within your own country, or will it be traveling internationally?
When do you want your pet to travel?
What is the size and weight of your pet?
How many animals will be traveling?
Is your pet to be accompanied?
Do you intend to break the journey, or stopover at an intermediate station?
What is your pet’s final destination?
Do you have an approved container for your pet?
How far in advance should I start planning my pet’s move?
You should start planning as far in advance as possible. Transporting your animal requires a lot of coordination and planning, many times taking weeks or months to coordinate your trip.
What is door-to-door service?
Your pet will be picked up in a climate-controlled van by a pet handling specialist and transported to special holding facilities before departing on the airline. Transported to the airport, checked in and placed in a climate-controlled area awaiting transportation to the airplane. Pets are shipped in a pressurized and temperature controlled area of the plane. The temperature is the same as it is in the passenger area and your pet can rest comfortably in their kennel during the flight. When you choose to use the cargo system for pet travel, rests assure that your pet is put on the plane last and taken off first to assure safety. Do not worry, cats and dogs actually travel better this way because it is quieter and they will rest in a darkened environment. At the destination airport, OATS will have collected your pet, signed transportation documentation and place your pet in a climate-controlled vehicle and delivered to your requested destination address.
What is airport-to-airport service?
When you choose airport-to-airport pet travel you are basically arranging for OATS to book your pet on a flight using their freight rates. OATS will let you know where to deliver your pet at the airport of departure. OATS will track the flight and be available to talk to during flights. Upon arrival at the pet’s destination, OATS will let you know where to pick up your pet. All airports vary in their collection points, so check with your OATS relocation specialist when you make your booking.
What do you mean by “Specialty Travel”?
Each animal in every species is unique. In addition to our high-level care and attention to the animals, some may require special attention for that particular animal or circumstance. Such things as customized crates, special bedding and food may be necessary for a safe and secure journey, Animals deserve our best effort to ensure that their travel plans are coordinated to best suit their needs. At OATS we work closely with our staff veterinarians, airlines and other professional transporters to make this happen.
How long before departure must pets arrive at the airport?
Most major airports servicing domestic flights require pets to be at the airport 90 to 120 minutes before departure. OATS relocation specialists will confirm each booking, the time you are required to be at the airport, as well as the exact address to ensure your pet is presented within the requirements of the airline. International travel will require more detailed information, based upon the regions that your pet will be flying into and out of. Your OATS specialist will keep you informed on your pets complete transportation requirements.
Should I feed my pet before travel?
To avoid travel sickness, it is recommended you don’t feed your pet at least six hours before they travel.
Should I sedate my pet to reduce the stress of travel?
NO. According to the American veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), it is recommended that you DO NOT give tranquilizers to your pet when traveling by air because it can increase the risk of heart and respiratory problems. Short-nosed dogs and cats sometimes have even more difficulty with travel. Visit the AVMA FAQs page for more information about short-nosed dogs and air travel.
According to Dr. Patricia Olsen with the American Humane Association, “An animal’s natural ability to balance and maintain equilibrium is altered under sedation and when the kennel is moved, a sedated animal may not be able to brace and prevent injury.”
Can I put my pet’s favorite toy or blanket in the crate with them?
Only small soft toys are allowed to travel with your pet. In the event of turbulence, you do not want hard objects in the crate, which may potentially cause harm to your pet. Items that may comfort your pet, such as some of your personal (unwashed) clothing or a familiar small blanket, can create a sense of security and soothe a nervous traveler.
Will my pet travel on the same flight as me?
It’s best to contact OATS to discuss what airline you intend to travel on, prior to purchasing passenger tickets. As every airline has to abide by a set of standards and regulations with pet travel, you will be able to make an informed decision on which airline you and your pet can travel on and what flights would be most suitable for you and your pet to take.
I will be traveling first and having my pets travel at a later date, can I do this?
Of course. OATS and their pet relocation specialist team will work with you to arrange pickup at a specific facility or friends home of your choice. If you are traveling to a new home first, it is best to get “settled” and then arrange for your pets arrival to a “settled” home. OATS will also check in with whomever is caring for your pet to keep up-to-date on their potential needs.
Is there anything else I need to do to make my pet’s trip easy?
Relax…. precondition your pet to its travel crate… have your pet spend time in its crate….Veterinarians recommend leaving for short periods of time while the pet is in its crate and upon return reward and play with the pet. This is important for your pet to be as relaxed as possible during the flight.
What size kennel/travel container will I need for my pet?
Your animal should be free to stand up, turn around and lay down with their front paws extended- without touching the side or top of its container. For Specialty crate or crate extenders please visit our custom crates page.
How are Fees set for each trip?
There are a number of components to your fee. These include the air cargo fee (ticket) charged by the airlines, charges for ground transportation when needed, transfers, communication including long distance telephone calls, overnight/express mail services and our processing fee. In addition, you may incur costs for boarding, veterinarian services, permits and for approved pet carriers (crates). Each trip is different and may require many hours of planning and the involvement of a variety of people.
Once I send in the “Request an Estimate” Form is there any obligation or fee?
No there is not. After submitting your Request an Estimate, the staff at OATS will review your information and contact you to discuss your pet’s specific needs. At which time you can then decide whether or not you’d like to HIRE OATS for the job!
