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We have 2 male gerbils, 2.5 years old and we are moving.

Sent to Pet Experts June 29 2006 at 8:59 PM
   

We have 2 male gerbils, 2.5 years old and we are moving. We need to fly to our new home. Can we take them with us and if so, what kind of cage do they need for air travel? Any other tips would be helpful. Thank you.

 

Optional Information:
Age: 2; Male; Breed: gerbil

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $8
Answer
June 30 2006 at 1:04 PM (16 hours and 4 minutes and 41 seconds later)
         
REPLIEDCheck Mark

Hi Kim:

Each airline has different specifications, which all must meet government standards for travel. If you would like for me to call the airline you plan to use to find out the information, I would be glad to do so for you :)



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G -- animal care specialist -- 99% Positive Feedback on 1236 Pet Accepts
15+ yrs pet health care, breeder of English Mastiffs, barnyard, knowledgable aquarium keeper
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June 30 2006 at 7:26 PM (6 hours and 21 minutes and 58 seconds later)
         
Reply to Gina's Post: I can call the airline myself once I know whether or not it is safe for the gerbils to fly, and if so, how best to transport them. So I am still wondering whether a vet or gerbil "expert" recommends air travel as safe for gerbils, and how they recommend transporting them.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
July 1 2006 at 8:59 AM (13 hours and 33 minutes and 20 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
Hi Kim, Gina asked that I take a look at this question. In my opinion, for a gerbil of that age, it is not safe for them to be flying.

Not only is the situation extremely stressful, but the altitude alone can make them severely ill. You know how your ears pop on an airline? That's from the high altitude and cabin pressure. With an animal that tiny, the affects will be much more severe, and I'm afraid that he make not make the entire flight.

Hamsters and gerbils are also notorious for having strokes as they get up in age. Being that yours is 2.5 years old, combined with an airline flight, puts him at great risk for that possibility.

If you can find any way around not taking the gerbil along, it would be the best option.

Hope this helps!

I am NOT, nor do I claim to be, a Veterinarian.
Always check with your vet for any symptoms your pet exhibits.

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Danielle -- Animal Care Expert -- 98% Positive Feedback on 246 Pet Accepts
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