The Shipping Process

      Interested in purchasing puppy, but not too sure about shipping a puppy?   

Is it really safe for the puppy? 

Won't it be difficult for the puppy having to be all alone in a crate for so long?  

Won't he/she be scared?  How long does it take?   

    I receive many inquiries on the process of shipping a puppy--individuals often wonder if it is safe and how it works.

This is how I explain the shipping process to individuals to help them feel more at ease with the process of getting a puppy:

Shipping a Puppy--Is it really safe?

 Shipping a puppy by itself to a new location always sounds cruel and heartless--but actually I think it is harder for us than the pup! :) If you stop and think about it, the airlines are not going to mistreat the pups for fear of lawsuit and customer dissatisfaction--and with my many years of shipping experience, I know for a fact that all of the pups are well taken care of. I tape puppy  food and feeding instructions to the top of the crate and put frozen water in the crate--so it will gradually thaw out for the pup--and the puppies are offered food along the ride. I have a big fluffy bed of shredded newspapers in the crate for the pup to nestle in and usually a pig's ear chew (they love them), and a toy or sock with my scent on it--to help the pup feel secure. So they pretty much have it made along the ride!  :) The pup will arrive the same day as it is sent--usually a few hours. I always ask about any delays or layovers and know the exact times and departures of the flights--so I know where the pup is and am able to give you the information as well.

What about shipping in the winter --isn't it too cold?

Shipping during this time of year is completely safe and is not a problem. Just like a person getting on a flight to go meet their relatives for the holidays, shipping a puppy is very similar-and probably even a little easier. All puppies ride in the belly of the plane where the temperature is kept at a comfortable 70 degrees--same as for the passengers--and they are the last on and first off the plane.  The only thing different about this time of year is that the airlines can be strict on the minimum temperature at each location (which is good) even though the plane is always kept at 70 degrees. I believe it is mainly for their liability and protection. Likewise, in the summertime--they will not ship if temperatures are too hot along the way. If this is the case, we will just wait for the next best day to ship or ship earlier or later in the day to combat the hot/cold part of the day. If you decide on a puppy, I will guarantee -as I have for 12 yrs--that he/she will arrive safe and sound. :)

What is involved in the shipping process?

Basically, after all amounts have been received, I am able to book the pup. I will need to know the time(s) and day(s) you are able to pick up the pup, your nearest airport, and your address and phone number. The day and time will depend primarily on the flight availability and temperature as well as when we both can travel to the airport.  Since I am 2 1/2 hrs from my nearest airport and do not charge extra for delivery like most breeders, I try to make each trip count as much as possible by taking multiple puppies at a time while striving to accommodate to your specified times.  Therefore it helps me greatly if you can specify multiple times/days you (or any other person with ID) would be available to pick up the puppy. 

Usually, I can only book a flight three days in advance so they are aware of the temperatures for shipping. After I have booked the pup, I will email you with the flight #, times, and location where the pup is to be picked up. Basically, then all you need to do is pick up the pup at your airport--taking a couple forms of identification--like a driver's license or insurance card and the airway bill number that I give you. Then I ask individuals to contact me as soon as possible after they receive their puppy as I'm very anxious to hear about the puppy--if everything went ok --what you think--and any other questions you might have.

That is pretty much the process--it seems lengthy in explanation--but it actually goes very fast! :)

 What is the normal cost of Shipping?

At this time, I am only able to ship within the US.  Shipping has been running approximately $260 which includes the cost of shipping, a crate and health certificate.  Most of the time I like to use AA Priority or Continental whenever possible. Major airports are often the best bet, but I would be glad to check out your local airport to see if shipping is possible.  Shipping to Alaska and Hawaii may be available only at select times. You are welcome to fly in to the KC airport to receive your puppy in person as well. :)

 I hope I have answered some of the questions you might have had. Should you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask!