09-20-2009, 12:07 PM
StillHope,
A big issue at Kona airport is that you have to take the shuttle to pick up your rental car and you also have to meet the vet at the baggage claim area. You can't leave the car waiting at the curb and you can't take your dog out of the crate until you have him at the car. Are you traveling with someone besides Mr. Stinky who can go get the car while you handle the dog and luggage? If not, you probably will need to get one of the baggage handlers at the departure area (not far away) to help you. This can be a big PITA. We have done it twice before and the relief of getting Mr Bear out of that cargo hold is the only thing that keeps this process from making us nuts! I am not sure how to manage it without another person to help. Big tip for the baggage handler/pet sitter.
I use my travel agent to book a SUV with a rack (for the carrier) for this leg of the trip. I feel that the extra few bucks is worth it.
BTW, We have found that a couple of benedryl helps make Mr. Bear a little sleepy, as he usually barks for most of the 5 hour flight.
Good Luck, Dan
A big issue at Kona airport is that you have to take the shuttle to pick up your rental car and you also have to meet the vet at the baggage claim area. You can't leave the car waiting at the curb and you can't take your dog out of the crate until you have him at the car. Are you traveling with someone besides Mr. Stinky who can go get the car while you handle the dog and luggage? If not, you probably will need to get one of the baggage handlers at the departure area (not far away) to help you. This can be a big PITA. We have done it twice before and the relief of getting Mr Bear out of that cargo hold is the only thing that keeps this process from making us nuts! I am not sure how to manage it without another person to help. Big tip for the baggage handler/pet sitter.
I use my travel agent to book a SUV with a rack (for the carrier) for this leg of the trip. I feel that the extra few bucks is worth it.
BTW, We have found that a couple of benedryl helps make Mr. Bear a little sleepy, as he usually barks for most of the 5 hour flight.
Good Luck, Dan