planning
In our quest to find a reliable and reputable cat breeder, we began by searching through the CFA, TICA websites, and conducting extensive Google searches. After several months of effort, countless emails, and numerous rejections, we finally came across the perfect Doll Face Persian kitten named Mittens, located in Nampa, Idaho. Our engagement with Patricia, the owner of 10 Cats Persians , has been absolutely wonderful, exceeding our expectations. We initiated our interaction through a video call, during which we confirmed Mittens' pedigree and ensured that the cattery tested negative for PKD, FELV, and FIV. Patricia also provided us with the current vaccination records for Mittens, adding to our confidence in the process.
Trave
We finalized all the arrangements and confirmed our time off from work for Friday, December 02, 2022, and Monday, December 05, 2022. To ensure a smooth journey, we made our flight reservations online and called to ensure Mittens was included in our travel plans. We also verified that our chosen hotel allows pets. As advocates of reducing stress and minimizing anxiety, we took extra precautions, especially considering it was Mittens' first time flying and encountering new environments and noises. To prepare for our hotel stay, we purchased several items from Amazon. Since Mittens would be staying in the hotel for one night, we got a portable cat travel litter box, lightweight litter, cat litter pee pads, pet wipes (just in case), collapsible travel bowls, and poop waste pick-up bags. Our breeder, Patrica, generously provided a starter kit that included a week's worth of food for Mittens. Knowing it was our first time traveling with a pet, Patrica went above and beyond by giving us a TSA approved pet carrier with a convenient slide strap that easily attaches to our carry-on luggage. This feature was incredibly helpful during our layovers, especially when we had to cover long distances on foot between flights.
HOME
Our original plan was to depart from our home location at 5:00 AM on Friday and arrive at Boise Idaho airport around 1:00 PM. Our goal was to meet up with Patricia, our breeder, spend quality time with Mittens at our hotel, the Hyatt Place Boise/Towne Square, and possibly explore the area. We had planned to return home on Saturday evening, December 03, 2022. However, our plans took an unfortunate turn due to flight delays with Delta , causing us to arrive at Boise Idaho airport around 10:00 PM. By that time, we were exhausted and simply wanted to check in, take a hot shower, and get some sleep. Throughout our travel ordeal, we kept in touch with Patricia, keeping her updated on our delayed arrival as she was eagerly awaiting our visit and Mittens' transition to her new loving home. The following day, on Saturday, December 03, 2022, we met with Patricia around 11:00 AM. We completed the necessary paperwork, examined Mittens, and she kindly dropped us off at Boise Idaho airport.
The Boise Idaho airport, being smaller in size, made the TSA's screening process more manageable for both us and Mittens. After passing through security, we proceeded to our designated gate and waited for our departure. After a few hours of waiting, we heard the flight attendant announce our boarding group, so we presented our itinerary, walked through the gate entrance, and made our way to the plane. Boarding was a success, and we were relieved to find an empty row assigned to us. This provided ample space for Mittens, and their carrier fit perfectly under the seat beside us. Once the plane reached a stable altitude, we took measures to alleviate any flight-related anxiety. We placed Mittens' carrier on our lap, unzipped the side opening, and gently petted Mittens throughout the flight. Thankfully, we arrived home safely with our new furry family member, Mittens. The feeling of relief and excitement filled us as we reunited with our beloved Boopie, who holds a special place in our hearts. As for the transitional phase, that is a story we'll save for another time.
Takeaway
1) Once you have made your flight reservation, contact the airline to include your feline companion in your travel plans.
2) Ensure that the hotels you choose not only allow pets but also offer a complimentary airport shuttle service. This will help you save on travel expenses.
3) If your hotel stay extends beyond one night, make sure to pack essential items for your pet, such as food, a portable cat travel litter box, lightweight litter, cat litter pads, pet wipes (just in case), collapsible travel bowls, and poop waste pick-up bags. Consider using larger suitcases instead of just a carry-on to accommodate your own belongings and your pet's necessities.
4) Mentally prepare yourself for unexpected changes during your trip. It's a good idea to have work-related items with you in case of an unexpected extended stay. Always plan ahead, remain optimistic, but also acknowledge that plans can change, and that's perfectly alright.
5) If you happen to forget anything, don't panic, especially if you're traveling within your own country. Fortunately, stores in the United States are widely available and consistent, making it easy to find any items you may need during your trip.