Relocating Chinchilla- need advice!

[JensAwesome]

So after following many threads over time, I find that I now face a situation in which I need advice from follow chin owners. I hope someone can help!

I have had my little girl for about 5 years now, and got married six months ago. My husband happens to be in the Army, and has already moved to his duty station in Hawaii. This move has already caused us to have to rehome our little boy hedgie with my family, which is very sad! We both really want to keep our little girl with us, as we love her very much. Up until now, she has traveled only via car for 5-6 hours at a time. During these travels, she has faired well, but this of course does not compare to going via long flight. We would be traveling from Florida.

Does anybody have any tips on this move being possible? I have not at this time found an airline that would allow her to travel in the cabin with me, but will continue searching. I do worry about how she will fair throughout the move, so am wondering if anyone has any experience on such big moves.

Any input would be appreciated! Hints on best carrier would be great too!

Thanks for your time.

 

[JensAwesome]

For anyone interested, this is my little girl Cinny (short for Cinnamon):

And my little boy Shadow (who will soon be living with his Uncle):

Sorry they came out HUGE!! They are amazing.

 

[ticklechin]

I personally would not put a chin through the Hawaii quarantine process, 120 days.

http://hawaii.gov/hdoa/ai/aqs/faq

 

[JensAwesome]

Chinchillas are not subjected to the quarantine process. That process is for cats and dogs due to the state being rabies free. I definitely would not bring her if she had to go through that process. However, what is required is a health certificate within 1 week of flying, and then when she arrives they examine her quickly and release her to my care. There is just a form to fill out and a fee to pay.

That makes me glad I do not currently own any cats or dogs though, the process to bring them in is much more difficult!

 

[VolunteerChin22]

Can you check with a rescue that specializes in helping soldiers with pets or would family be willing to take her temporarily?

120 days is a long time to not know how they are caring for her....

 

[JensAwesome]

For reference:

Guinea Pigs, Chinchillas, Mice and Rats:

-Requires an import permit prior to importation, from the Chief Plant Inspector, Department of Agriculture, 1849 Auiki Street, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96819. Call (808) 832-0566 for information. To download the application form, click here
-Require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), also known as a health certificate. The CVI must be issued and signed by a State, Federal, or accredited veterinarian within seven days prior to arrival in Hawaii.
-The CVI must list and give a description of the animal(s) in the shipment, must state that the animal(s) were not showing signs of infectious, contagious and/or communicable diseases and were found free of external parasites.
-Guinea pigs, chinchillas, mice and rats are required to enter the State only through the Honolulu International Airport where they are required to be submitted by an agent of the airline carrier to the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility for inspection. Hours of inspection are 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
-Once inspection is complete and all entry requirements have been met, the animals may be released to the importer.


That all is handled fairly easily. I had spoken to someone regarding the move who stated that I would have my chinny the same day fairly quickly as long as there were not a lot of animals arriving at the same time. Now the only questions that remain would be if anyone has any idea on the best carrier for moving as well as any airline preference. I have considered going to Hawaii alone first and having her shipped, but am unsure about shipping. I was hoping someone here may be experienced and able to offer some information.

 

[JensAwesome]

Does anyone have any input on a carrier that is comfortable for chin travel? I have used just a cat carrier in the past she never bothered to chew, but not sure if anyone has further suggestions. Also, does anyone have input on if any major airlines allow chinchillas? I will continue looking into it, just hoping someone may have some experience with air travel! Thanks.

 

[VolunteerChin22]

I would use a Ryerson style carrier. http://www.ryersonchinchilla.com/arc_010.htm

Pop a hay cube and a handful of pellets and maybe a stick.

Most people who ship prefer Continental. They have good policies regarding pets.

 

[JensAwesome]

thanks for the advice! I was considering somehow attaching (maybe with extra strength velcro or something so it stays in place) a frozen water bottle in a cover to the carrier in case it gets a bit warm at some points. Anyone know if the fleece covers keep the moisture from getting in fur? I know people sell them, just don't know about the effectiveness.