You found a Sato while visiting Puerto Rico and you want to take it home...now what do you do?

Photo © Douglas Hodgkins Photography

First, check your city and state laws to ensure you can bring the dog home (click here for a list of Import/Export regulations), and call the airline you are traveling on and find out what their policy is for transporting animals. We have included some of the major airlines website links below to assist you in researching their policies. You may also visit www.petflight.com for some great information on traveling with pets.

To prepare for your trip home (within the US), some of the things you will need include -

• A health exam and vaccinations from a veterinarian (see local vet information below).
• A Travel Health Certificate provided by a veterinarian that is not more than 10 days old stating the dog is in good health. The temperature acclimation certificate should be completed by the vet if the destination is not within the airlines temperature guidelines for flight (typically 45 degrees F - 85 degrees F) - check with the veterinarian for more information.
• Carry the Rabies vaccine certificate, rabies tag and health records with you, it is a good idea to make a copy and attach it to the kennel as well.
• An airline approved kennel the appropriate size so that the dog can stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. The kennel should be labeled with your contact information and marked "Live Animals".
• Shred lots of newspaper for the bottom of the kennel to absorb any spills or accidents.
• A water bottle or bowl securely fastened to the kennel door.
• A food dish securely fastened to the kennel door and a zip lock bag of food taped to the top of the kennel.
• Plastic cable ties to secure kennel sides and door (some airlines supply these).
• You should plan to arrive 3 hours in advance of your departure time to check in. You will have to stay with the dog until NTSB has performed a full inspection of the crate. You will need to remove the dog from the crate so be sure you have a secure collar and leash.

**Please note - This information is provided as a guideline only. Check your state and city laws for quarentine and other regulations. Airline regulations change often, always check with your airline prior to your departure date to ensure all regulations are met.

Veterinarians in Puerto Rico that are accustomed to working with Tourists -

Dr. Ernesto R. Casta
Avenida General de Valle #1003
Rio Piedras, P.R. 00924
(787) 767-5398

Dr. Juan M. Dominguez
1255 Marginal Villamar
Carolina, P.R. 00979
(787) 728-8610

View our Interactive Map of Resources in Puerto Rico or click here for a complete listing of veterinarians in Puerto Rico.

Links to assist you in preparing to travel with your sato -

American Airlines - Traveling with pets. Average cost per crate traveling with a passenger is $150.00.

American Airlines Cargo - Animal shipping information - Cargo Shipment costs

Continental Airlines - Traveling with Animals.

Delta Airlines - Pet travel information.

Jet Blue Airline - Traveling with pets and JetPaws program information.

Northwest Airlines - Transporting pets and animals.

United Airlines - Traveling with pets.

US Airways - Pets.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) - Bringing and Animal into the United States.

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Importation of pets and other animals into the United States.

Photo © Douglas Hodgkins Photography

If you are unable to take a sato you found home with you, Save a Sato or one of the other organizations on the island may be able to help. Click here to see the list of organizations in Puerto Rico.

Visit WSPA's Compassionate Travel website for information on how you can plan an animal friendly vacation.