PETS AHOY…..
As an avid dog lover myself and someone who has experienced the difficulties associated with finding suitable accommodation for my beloved pet “Looney”. I decided to look at alternative travel arrangements whilst at sea.
The following information may be of interest to those of you who “like me” find the separation with my dog to be a rather unsettling time.
Please read below and see if the following information maybe an option you would consider !!!!!
First of all the not so good news.
For those with pet dogs, unfortunately 99.9% of cruise line’s are only prepared to accept service dog’s. The reason for this policy outline are as follows :
Many countries have rigid entry and quarantine requirements for pets, including cats, dogs, and others. Cruise lines must also adhere to strict health codes, and the ship must also worry about having the proper accommodations for pets. If a ship does not have special designated areas for pets and improper waste removal methods and equipment, this can have a negative impact on the safety and health of all passengers aboard the ship. Pets must also be monitored at all times by professional kennel workers and the ship must employ a vet in case of an emergency. This additional cost is one that most cruise lines would rather not incur.
But now for the good news.
The only cruise liner that will accept cats and dogs that do not fall into the category of “PETS” is Cunard on the Queen Mary 2 to be specific. There are however certain requirements that need to be met.
The Queen Mary 2 operated by Cunard Lines is an approved carrier in connection with the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) on there Transatlantic Crossings. Passage in the kennels is subject to size restrictions, availability and the requirements of the Pet Scheme. Pets are only accepted on Transatlantic crossings, but not on the first and last transatlantic crossing of the year.
Pets must comply with the following:
If travelling from New York to Southampton:
All pets must be fitted with a microchip, vaccinated against rabies, satisfactorily blood tested to ensure sufficient protection against rabies (the date the blood test is taken will be entered on the PETS passport and six months must have passed from this date before entry into the UK is allowed. Booster injections for rabies may also be required), issued with an official PETS certificate, official PET passport or 3rd country certificate, treated against ticks and tapeworm no more than 48 hours before check in and issued with an official certificate of treatment.
If travelling from Southampton to New York:
All pets must have been issued with a current Health Certificate (the health certificate should show that the dog or cat was examined by a veterinarian within 30 days of entry of the dog or cat into the State of New York) and had a rabies vaccination within 12 months to 14 days prior to Entry into the State of New York.
If you plan on re-entering the UK with your pet, you must adhere to the Pet Travel Scheme and a six month probation period is required.
When arriving at check in, guests must make themselves known at the enquiries desk and the Kennel Master will be called to collect the pet.
Cunard cannot accommodate the following breeds:
Afghan, Curly Coated Retriever, Bloodhound, Gordon Setter, Borzoi (Russian Wolfhound), Great Dane, Briard, Greyhound, Irish Wolfhound, Irish Setter, Mastiff, Deerhound, New Foundland, Doberman, Pyrenees, St. Bernard, Saluki, Weimaraner, Bull Mastiff and Malamute.
If the dog is “small for their breed”, Cunard kennels need to have exact measurements to ensure the dog will fit. The dog from the head to the floor and hind quarters must be less than 36″ high and less than 60″ long.
Information about the Kennels :
1. Kennels are located on Sun Deck, midships
2. There are 12 kennels (2 levels of 6)
Top level – Small – 33′ X 33′ X 27 ” high
Floor level – Large – 33″ X 33′ X 39″ high
The pet’s measurements from tip of tail to tip of nose, or feet to head cannot exceed the sizes listed above.
3. Kennels can be used for cats, dogs and other small animals
4. It is not normal procedure to put more than one pet in a kennel, but this can be done if the guest requests it.
5. Food is provided and any special requirements can be prepared by the kennel attendant.
6. The shielded, open-deck area, fitted with a lamppost and fire hydrant is available to exercise pets.
7. Animals are not permitted on any other open deck, public area or staterooms.
8. Prior to sailing, necessary documentation must be presented to the ship before livestock can travel.
9. Guests may provide own bed/bedding for their pets.
Prices :
For voyages prior to May 4 2012 kennel costs are:
Small upper kennel $300*( £193.00 Sterling )
Large lower kennel $500*( £321.00 Sterling )
For voyages after May 4 2012, kennels costs are:
Upper kennel $500*( £321.00 Sterling )
Lower kennel $700*( £449.00 Sterling )
Cat in upper kennel $1000*( £641.00 Sterling )
2nd pet in same kennel $500*( £321.00 Sterling )
Two kennels can be opened up to form a larger kennel though guests will be charged for the two kennels. Kennels are located at the rear of Deck 12 and are available for cats or dogs only.
Cunard’s “Pets on Deck” program, including adding a range of pet-friendly services and amenities such as fresh-baked biscuits at turn-down;a choice of beds and blankets; and even a QM2-logoed coat. As part of the enhanced program, traveling dogs and cats also receive a complimentary gift pack featuring a QM2-logoed coat, Frisbee, name tag, food dish and scoop; a complimentary portrait with pet owners; a crossing certificate and personalized cruise card.
This is a brilliant idea – if your like me and don’t enjoy leaving your pets at home and being honest prices are quite reasonable.
If anyone has taken there pets on the Queen Mary 2 with Cunard I would love to hear about your experiences in how you found it. Any comments or suggestions are vey welcome.
One Comment on “PETS AHOY…..”
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About Me
My name is Michelle Fennelly and I have over 28 years of experience in the travel industry and cruising is my passion. I have worked for Cruise.co.uk for the last 6yrs which I absolutely love, before then I have worked for Air200 – Airtours / MyTravel – Tomas Cook. I…
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wow…Call me an old softie…but I would welcome this opportunity to bring our wee Hairy wean with us. Had our first cruise on NCL for Christmas…just back and it was brilliant …said Bella Hound was well huffed on our return. Will defo look into this for the future as she has all her requirements re passport as we live in Spain and make return journeys to Scotland with her.