A little pre-flight update on Stella

Last week we received the Bill of Lading from the shipping company for the pet relocation agent (we are using Furry Flyers) to get the No Objection Certificate (NOC), and after a few days I can happily say she's ready to fly.

Stella's NOC! I've blurred out the sensitive bits, it doesn't actually look like this.

We've outfitted her crate with the aid of another blog I found.  I taped a ziploc bag to the top that has an info sheet containing our flight details, a photo, copies of her vaccination record, the NOC, International Health Certificate (Form 7001), Annexure I form, and Declaration Form.  I was told that we would not need an acclimatization form by Lufthansa (the USDA seconded this), and that the required "LIVE ANIMAL" stickers would be provided at check in.

I secured 2 bowls on the inside of the front door for food and water, and will freeze the water bowl to avoid making a mess. An absorbant mat  is on the bottom. Outside the crate I've attached a pouch that has baggies of food and her leash and collar so that she can be taken care of in Frankfurt at the Pet Hotel.  Before we leave, I'll be sure that her last meal is at least 4 hours from takeoff, and to NOT give her any type of tranquilizer.

Stella hanging out in her crate, ready to fly!

I'm not looking forward to the stress level of moving day with Stella. The temperature is supposed to be frigid, just 16˚F (-9˚C) as a high and 2˚F (-17˚C) as a low, which has me worried, even though I was told that the only time she will be exposed to those temps is when she's being transported from the holding area to the plane.  It will be a looooooooong wait for me until I hear that she's made it on safely and is comfortable in the plane.