Anyone have problems getting an Acclimation Certificate for their pets? (home, safe)

[in_my_travels]

Hi Everyone,

I have a question about the acclimation certificate that Hawaiian Air requires.

I asked my vet about getting one and she said she's never been trained on this, is uncomfortable signing one, but will do it if it's required, etc. The vet says this is the way airlines release itself from liability.

I guess she'll give one if I ask, but she is reluctant to do so. Come on vet! She says she has experience shipping pets to Hawaii from the mainland. Hmm. I guess I'll have to double check again with her and tell her its required with Hawaiian Air. Ho da humbug!

Hawaiian Airlines states it requires one, but my vet is reluctant to give one. Has anyone had trouble getting this from their vet? It seems like it's a big deal for my vet. I'd appreciate any advice and tips.

Mahalo!

[Koale]

Aloha,
This shouldn't be an issue for your Vet, at all. It's simply a form that advises of the highest / lowest temperature your pet can safely fly. The Vet fills it out and there you go. It's actually a 'waiver' of sorts for the Vet in as much as they are documenting the safe flying conditions of your pet. If the pet owner chooses to attempt to fly the animal in higher or lower temperatures, well, it's off the Vets shoulders. Your Vet should know this and be happy to sign off on it. Now, if you are wanting to ship your pet in unsafe conditions, and your Vet is aware of this, then I can see their reluctance to let the animal out of the State.
Koale

[in_my_travels]

Thanks, Koale!

I think I mis-read the fine print yet again. For Hawaiian is states that if the temperature is below 45, then an acclimation certificate would be required.

I think we'll call Hawaiian 30 days before the cats can depart, and see if we can get them on the flight. If it doesn't work, we'll go Continental.

It won't be below 45 degrees in Hawaii in September so I won't need the acclimation certificate. If only I read the fine print! haha. Nah, I think I just read too much into things.

[Koale]

Oh, IslandGirlComingHome....
It's pretty confusing to say the least. After my two dogs were safely on the Big Island it was like...'what was all that fuss about'. All they wanted to do was pee and have a cookie. I wanted a little white pill...lolol...
Welcome Home Kamaaina!!!
Koale

[PacificFlights]

Airlines will want a AC if the temp is above or below USDA regs anywhere along the trip including stops. They may also require one even if in temp range if they have breed restrictions. Call the airline and ask the specifics based on your travel.

[in_my_travels]

Thanks, Koale -- hey, I like my new name! You're too funny! I hope things go just as smoothly as your dogs' experience.

PacificFlights, thanks for the advice. I hope I asked all the right questions. I'm going to be in Hawaii to receive the cats, but I'm doing what I can before I leave. So much to do and ask. This site really helps, too. I think I've pretty much called all the airlines. I've got a file folder of notes and so far, Continental and Hawaiian top the rest.

We've got the cats booked on Continental and if we can get them on Hawaiian (I'll call 30 days before), we'll do that. It's a direct flight and the less time in transit for my feline friends. If not, Continental it is.

Continental does not require an AC and according to them, there are no temperature restrictions. They limit outside exposure and will keep the cats cool. I like that you can track their flight status online with Continental. That's kind of cool!