Consent Form
FOR CONFIRMED BOOKINGS ONLY. Please read our terms and conditions then complete the consent form below. "Pet Shuttles" booking policy is to receive full payment and this consent form completed and returned before bookings are confirmed (Minimum 7 days prior to travel). Please ensure all details are correct before submitting this form.
Terms & Conditions
All parties to the contract, including the breeder, consignor, consignee or any other party who places the booking with Pet Shuttles shall be held to be the owner and are deemed to have accepted these Terms and Conditions and to be jointly and severally liable for any additional costs that may be incurred on their behalf during the transport. Any person who contracts Pet Shuttles to conduct any such transport, makes payment for transport services or delivers an animal to Pet Shuttles for the purpose of transport, including if they are not the owner, warrants to Pet Shuttles that they have the authority of the owner to do so and that they accept these Terms & Conditions.
Pricing and PaymentsAny price or quotation provided by Pet Shuttles is based on information provided by the owner of the animal as to the animals breed, size and the location of pick up and delivery. Pet Shuttles reserve the right to vary the price in the event that the information upon which the price was quoted was incorrect or has altered. Any price provided by Pet Shuttles is solely for transport and care of the animal and does not include Pet Insurance, Boarding, Veterinary Care or any additional extras unless agreed upon at the time of booking.Quotes for pet travel are only valid for 48hrs from time of enquiry. No booking spots will be held for any longer without payment received.Payments may be made by Cash, Credit card or Bank transfer, Cheques will not be accepted. Booking payments are due in full at time of booking and bookings are not confirmed until such time as payment has been received in full accompanied by the consent form completed (Located at the bottom of this document). Booked spaces not paid 7 days prior to travel may be released. In the event of incomplete or returned payments Pet Shuttles reserves the right to refuse delivery of any animals and to deliver them to an appropriate boarding facility at the owners cost until such time as payment has been received in full.
Cancellations/RefundsPet shuttles reserve the right to charge the total amount in the event of a booking being cancelled less than 1 week prior to the agreed pick up time or in the event that we are not informed that a booking has been cancelled. In the event we arrive to collect an animal but are unable to contact the consignor the booking shall be treated as a cancelled booking and the driver shall continue his scheduled run.Refunds requested or given shall be at the sole discretion of Pet Shuttles, having regard to the individual circumstances. In general terms we will apply the following. If bookings are cancelled one week (7 days) before the scheduled pick up date we will offer a full refund. If a booking is cancelled within 6 days of the scheduled pick up no refund will be given. In the event that services are cancelled or interrupted due to circumstances beyond Pet Shuttles control we will be unable to provide refunds but will postpone, re-book or provide credits at our discretion where necessary. In the event that any animal is unable to travel due to illness or has passed away prior to the scheduled trip, Pet Shuttles will refund or postpone the trip as appropriate provided that the owner has made a reasonable effort to notify us as soon as is practical.
Collection, Delivery, Transport and TimingAll times provided by Pet Shuttles, at the time of booking, for pick up or delivery are estimates only. We endeavour to ensure we can at all times maintain an appropriate timetable however, inevitably, at times we will be required to make alterations to our timetable or to cancel services due to traffic and weather conditions, mechanical breakdowns or for any other reason beyond our control. Pet Shuttles accept no liability for any loss, cost or inconvenience suffered by any party as a result of any deviation from estimated pick up and delivery times or the cancellation of any services due to circumstances beyond our control.Pet Shuttles may refuse to pick up any animal in the event that we have, at that point in time, been unable to confirm appropriate delivery details with the consignee or if our driver considers that there is any issue with the health or condition of the animal or the animal differs from the details we had been provided.In the event that Pet Shuttles is unable to contact the consignee for delivery at the arranged time we may deliver the animals to an appropriate boarding facility until appropriate alternative arrangements are able to be made. If delivery is unable to be finalised due to circumstances outside of Pet Shuttles control, the animals may be held and cared for in appropriate conditions by Pet Shuttles or returned to the consignor or to an appropriate boarding facility and the owner may be responsible for the original cost of transport and any additional costs incurred at Pet Shuttles discretion and having regard to the reasons for non delivery.In the event that any animal is required to be kennelled or boarded for any reason including travel or collection delays beyond Pet Shuttles control, all boarding costs shall be the owners responsibility. LiabilityWhilst Pet Shuttles conducts itself with the utmost care and attention to clients’ animals, they are handled under the understanding that Pet Shuttles will not to be held responsible for any loss, death, illness, injury or accident due to any cause whatsoever notwithstanding that nothing in these Terms and Conditions is intended to discharge Pet Shuttles normal duty of care or liability in the event that Pet Shuttles or its staff are found to be negligent in their care for the animal.It is at all times the owners and/or breeders responsibility to ensure that the animal is fit for travel including but not limited to the animal being social, non aggressive, of an appropriate age, has had appropriate vaccinations, worming, flea & tick treatments and does not suffer from travel stress or separation anxiety. Pet Shuttles cannot be expected to know the condition or temperament of your pet and will not be held accountable for any failure on the owners part to ensure its suitability for transport.Where any animal is collected from or delivered to another animal transporter or other third party at the request of the owner Pet Shuttles accepts no liability for any loss, death, illness, injury or accident due to any cause whatsoever whilst the animal is in the care of that other party.Where any animal is collected from or delivered to another animal transporter or other third party for the provision of services arranged by and which form a part of the total contract with Pet Shuttles, these Terms & Conditions shall be deemed to be applicable whilst the animal is in the care of that third party.Pet Shuttles accepts no responsibility or liability for any other items of paperwork, baggage or freight that may be provided to us for delivery along with your pets. Pet Shuttles recommends that copies are made of any important paperwork that will be sent with your pets to protect you against possible loss.
PrivacyPet Shuttles collect information from and about our clients and their pets for the sole purpose of the provision of pet transport services and may disclose this information to others as is necessary in the provision of said services. This includes but is not limited to other transporters, veterinarians, kennels or individuals with whom we would reasonably be expected to share information in the provision of said services. Pet Shuttles shall accept no liability for any loss or inconvenience suffered by any party as a result of the disclosure of any such information. Animal health and welfare Veterinary attentionIt is a condition of transport that Pet Shuttles are authorised by the owner/s to seek veterinary attention for any animal should it be deemed necessary by Pet Shuttles whilst it is in our care. Pet Shuttles shall make every effort to contact the owner prior to authorising appropriate treatment however in the event that we are unable to contact the owner Pet Shuttles have a duty of care to make such decisions as may be necessary, based on veterinary advice received. Any veterinary costs incurred shall be the owners responsibility and where possible shall be billed directly to the owner. Any veterinary costs incurred by Pet Shuttles shall be forwarded to the owner for reimbursement. In the event that an animal requires veterinary attention during transport Pet Shuttles is not obligated to refund any prepaid transport fees.In the event we are required to take your animal to a vet, it is likely that the animal may be required to stay at the vet for an extended period of time and Pet Shuttles may not be able to wait for treatment to be finalised due to our ongoing Duty of Care for other animals on board. This may result in additional costs to the owner for extended care, boarding or alternative transport to complete the journey.It is the owners responsibility to inform Pet Shuttles of any illness, medical condition or special needs relevant to their animal prior to the animal being collected for transport. In the event that any Breeder or owner provides to Pet Shuttles any animal that is known to be unwell without disclosing the details to Pet Shuttles and other animals become unwell as a consequence they may be held liable for any additional costs or damages incurred by Pet Shuttles its staff or other clients. Brachycehalic breeds and Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)Pet Shuttles “Policy regarding the Transport of Brachycephalic Dogs and Cats”, which is attached at the bottom of these terms and conditions, shall be deemed to form a part of these terms & conditions in the event that we are contracted to transport an animal that is of a Brachycephalic breed. This policy includes but is not limited to the following conditions:The owner, sender and receiver acknowledge that:1. Their animal/s, being of a brachycephalic breed, are at a greater risk of suffering from BAOS or other health conditions during transport and that they understand that Pet Shuttles will only accept such animals for transport wholly at the owners risk.2. It is their responsibility to understand the risks to their animal associated with BAOS and to properly assess the animals condition and suitability for transport.3. Their animal has not previously required treatment for BAOS, any respiratory problems or heat stress.4. Our drivers may refuse to accept the animal for transport if it shows signs of advanced BAOS or is obese. In the event that an animal is not accepted for transport Pet Shuttles is not obligated to refund any prepaid transport fees.5. In the event of extremely hot weather conditions being forecast Pet Shuttles may postpone or cancel the transport of brachycephalic breeds or at risk animals. VaccinationsIt is, under all circumstances, entirely the owners responsibility to ensure that their own animal is appropriately vaccinated and protected according to their own needs and/or beliefs. During transport animals will come into contact with other animals and may be walked in public places. Young animals are not considered to be fully vaccinated until 1 week after their final vaccination at around 16 weeks or later. Pet Shuttles will not be held liable for the owners failure to ensure appropriate protection for their pets.Notwithstanding the above, young animals should not be transported within 7 days of receiving their first vaccinations due to an increased risk to the animal of contracting diseases, becoming unwell or suffering from side effects in this period following vaccination. Young animals transported within this period are carried entirely at the owners risk. Tranquilisers and sedativesIt is Pet Shuttles policy that tranquillizers or sedatives should not be used on animals being transported due to increased health risks to animals under sedation. Where tranquillizers are required they are to be arranged by the client and prescribed and issued by the client’s own veterinarian. Pet Shuttles will not be held responsible for complications arising from the administration or use of tranquillizers or sedatives. Exercising of animalsIt is Pet Shuttles policy to exercise dogs, as appropriate, whilst in our care. Apart from the obvious benefits it is at these times that we are most likely to notice any changes in your pets behaviour that may be an indication of a health concern. It is an inevitable consequence that there is an increased risk of loss, injury or the contraction of diseases whilst animals are being exercised in the same way as there is whilst they are being exercised in your own care. It is the owners responsibility to inform Pet Shuttles if they do not want their animal to be handled or exercised for any reason, however please note that this will also limit our ability to assess your pets health & condition. Dangerous animalsWe reserve the right not to transport or handle any animal that is considered to present a danger to any person or other animal and this shall be at the sole discretion of our staff. Interpretation and definitions of Terms & ConditionsThese terms and conditions form an integral part of any written or verbal Contract between Pet Shuttles and any client who contracts Pet Shuttles to transport any animal.“owner” means any person, company or organisation who enters into or is a party to a contract with Pet Shuttles to transport an animal including the breeder, trainer, consignor and the consignee.“Pet Shuttles” means the company, based in Campbelltown New South Wales, Australia, trading as Pet Shuttles and its employees. Employees of Pet Shuttles have the authority to enter into a contract on behalf of Pet Shuttles but have no authority to vary these terms & conditions.“animal” or “animals” means any animal, multiple of animals or other item provided to Pet Shuttles for the purpose of being transported.“consignor” means the person Pet Shuttles is contracted to collect the animal from.“consignee” means the person Pet Shuttles is contracted to deliver the animal to. Pet Shuttles information regarding the Transport and treatment of Brachycephalic Breeds What is Brachycephalic syndrome (BAOS)? (Sometimes referred to as BOAS or BAS)Some breeds of pedigree dogs & cats with very short muzzles (termed brachycephalic) can have difficulty breathing due to a disorder known as brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome (BAOS). These animals are at a greater risk of suffering from stress and requiring veterinary attention, or passing away, during transport both by Air and Road.In these dogs the skull length is reduced, but the amount of soft tissue in the muzzle is not, resulting in the same amount of tissue being squeezed into a smaller area. It is generally believed that this characteristic has been deliberately selected for in the past by Breeders and that it is a result of a preference for animals with flatter, more human looking features.Because all of these components make it more difficult to breathe, in situations of exercise, stress, excitement or hot conditions, an animal with these abnormalities may be unable to take deep or fast enough breaths leading to oxygen deprivation, a build up of carbon dioxide and an inability to properly regulate their body temperature through panting. This leads to distress and further increases respiratory rate, heart rate and temperature, creating a vicious cycle that can quickly lead to a life-threatening situation.Dogs experiencing a crisis situation due to brachycephalic syndrome typically benefit from oxygen, cool temperatures, sedatives, and in some cases more advance medical intervention including intubation. List of Brachycephalic animalsNot all breeds are affected to the same degree. Additionally some breeds are not common in Australia. It is likely that the degree of risk is proportional to the degree of flatness of the face in different breeds. Brachycephalic Dogs:Seriously affected breeds, problems should be expected and watched for.Bulldogs (All Breeds) PugBoston Terrier Japanese Spaniel, Chin, Japanese ChinPekingese
Breeds that are Brachycephalic and where problems are possible but more likely to be experienced only in the presence of other risk factors.Boxer (All Breeds) Cane Corso Chihuahua (Apple-Headed)Mastiffs (All Breeds) Japanese Chin Cavalier King Charles SpanielPit Bull Affenpinscher Bull Terriers (All Breeds Including Staffies and Amstaffs)Brussels Griffon Chow Chow English Toy Spaniel Lhasa Apso American Cocker Spaniel (not English Cocker Spaniel)Newfoundland Rottweiler Shih Tzu Tibetan Spaniel Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff)Shar-Pei Yorkshire Terrier Brachycephalic Cats:British Shorthair Himalayan CatBurmese Persian CatExotic Shorthair Symptoms or Signs associated with BAOS in these Breeds:Noisy Breathing Snoring CoughingReverse sneezing Nasal Congestion Shortness of breathHigh Blood Pressure Exercise intolerance Fainting or collapsingLow oxygen concentration in blood Excessive flatulence (From gulping air) Symptoms of this condition do not seem to be an issue in young puppies but should be watched for in mature animals from approximately 9 months of age. Specific additional risk factors for these animals include:Obesity Stress Hot Conditions Over ExcitementPrevious respiratory issues Previous incidences of heat stress Signs or Symptoms that may cause Pet Shuttles drivers to refuse to accept a Brachycephalic breed for transport:Nasal congestion Loud or unusual breathing Shortness of breathObesity Unusually hot weather conditions Signs of over excitement or stressAny previous respiratory issues relating to this condition If your pet is or does at times show any of the above signs of this problem, you must seriously consider whether it is appropriate to transport your animal. Please note that all major transporters within Australia and internationally have some form of limitation or waiver regarding the transport of Brachycephalic breeds and in the case your pet is severely affected even private transport by car may not be recommended. We suggest that you consult your veterinarian for further advice.
Heat Stress / Heat strokeHeat stress is a condition that these animals are particularly susceptible to due to their existing genetic and physical breed characteristics. Some animals will handle heat far better than others but all Brachycephalic animals have an impaired ability to properly regulate their body temperature to some degree. We do focus upon heat stress in our care of your animals, it is in fact the only risk factor with these animals that we have a partial ability to control. However it is important to be aware that a Brachycephalic animal suffering from over exertion, excitement or stress can suffer similar symptoms, leading to breathing difficulties, oxygen deprivation and possibly death in the absence of heat as a factor and in fact this situation can arise in a cool or air conditioned environment. These issues exist for all forms of transport, by road and by air. The nature of all animal transport is such that it is not possible for a driver or handler to monitor every animal at every moment, even with regular stops it is possible for an animal suffering from respiratory distress or heat stress to progress to a critical stage in a very short space of time with the risk that symptoms may go unnoticed and/or that by the time symptoms are noticed that it is not possible to get the animal appropriate care in time. Please note additionally that in some instances the physical location and time of day will be a factor in determining whether it is possible to get an animal to appropriate care in time.
Cancellations/RefundsPet shuttles reserve the right to charge the total amount in the event of a booking being cancelled less than 1 week prior to the agreed pick up time or in the event that we are not informed that a booking has been cancelled. In the event we arrive to collect an animal but are unable to contact the consignor the booking shall be treated as a cancelled booking and the driver shall continue his scheduled run.Refunds requested or given shall be at the sole discretion of Pet Shuttles, having regard to the individual circumstances. In general terms we will apply the following. If bookings are cancelled one week (7 days) before the scheduled pick up date we will offer a full refund. If a booking is cancelled within 6 days of the scheduled pick up no refund will be given. In the event that services are cancelled or interrupted due to circumstances beyond Pet Shuttles control we will be unable to provide refunds but will postpone, re-book or provide credits at our discretion where necessary. In the event that any animal is unable to travel due to illness or has passed away prior to the scheduled trip, Pet Shuttles will refund or postpone the trip as appropriate provided that the owner has made a reasonable effort to notify us as soon as is practical.
Collection, Delivery, Transport and TimingAll times provided by Pet Shuttles, at the time of booking, for pick up or delivery are estimates only. We endeavour to ensure we can at all times maintain an appropriate timetable however, inevitably, at times we will be required to make alterations to our timetable or to cancel services due to traffic and weather conditions, mechanical breakdowns or for any other reason beyond our control. Pet Shuttles accept no liability for any loss, cost or inconvenience suffered by any party as a result of any deviation from estimated pick up and delivery times or the cancellation of any services due to circumstances beyond our control.Pet Shuttles may refuse to pick up any animal in the event that we have, at that point in time, been unable to confirm appropriate delivery details with the consignee or if our driver considers that there is any issue with the health or condition of the animal or the animal differs from the details we had been provided.In the event that Pet Shuttles is unable to contact the consignee for delivery at the arranged time we may deliver the animals to an appropriate boarding facility until appropriate alternative arrangements are able to be made. If delivery is unable to be finalised due to circumstances outside of Pet Shuttles control, the animals may be held and cared for in appropriate conditions by Pet Shuttles or returned to the consignor or to an appropriate boarding facility and the owner may be responsible for the original cost of transport and any additional costs incurred at Pet Shuttles discretion and having regard to the reasons for non delivery.In the event that any animal is required to be kennelled or boarded for any reason including travel or collection delays beyond Pet Shuttles control, all boarding costs shall be the owners responsibility. LiabilityWhilst Pet Shuttles conducts itself with the utmost care and attention to clients’ animals, they are handled under the understanding that Pet Shuttles will not to be held responsible for any loss, death, illness, injury or accident due to any cause whatsoever notwithstanding that nothing in these Terms and Conditions is intended to discharge Pet Shuttles normal duty of care or liability in the event that Pet Shuttles or its staff are found to be negligent in their care for the animal.It is at all times the owners and/or breeders responsibility to ensure that the animal is fit for travel including but not limited to the animal being social, non aggressive, of an appropriate age, has had appropriate vaccinations, worming, flea & tick treatments and does not suffer from travel stress or separation anxiety. Pet Shuttles cannot be expected to know the condition or temperament of your pet and will not be held accountable for any failure on the owners part to ensure its suitability for transport.Where any animal is collected from or delivered to another animal transporter or other third party at the request of the owner Pet Shuttles accepts no liability for any loss, death, illness, injury or accident due to any cause whatsoever whilst the animal is in the care of that other party.Where any animal is collected from or delivered to another animal transporter or other third party for the provision of services arranged by and which form a part of the total contract with Pet Shuttles, these Terms & Conditions shall be deemed to be applicable whilst the animal is in the care of that third party.Pet Shuttles accepts no responsibility or liability for any other items of paperwork, baggage or freight that may be provided to us for delivery along with your pets. Pet Shuttles recommends that copies are made of any important paperwork that will be sent with your pets to protect you against possible loss.
PrivacyPet Shuttles collect information from and about our clients and their pets for the sole purpose of the provision of pet transport services and may disclose this information to others as is necessary in the provision of said services. This includes but is not limited to other transporters, veterinarians, kennels or individuals with whom we would reasonably be expected to share information in the provision of said services. Pet Shuttles shall accept no liability for any loss or inconvenience suffered by any party as a result of the disclosure of any such information. Animal health and welfare Veterinary attentionIt is a condition of transport that Pet Shuttles are authorised by the owner/s to seek veterinary attention for any animal should it be deemed necessary by Pet Shuttles whilst it is in our care. Pet Shuttles shall make every effort to contact the owner prior to authorising appropriate treatment however in the event that we are unable to contact the owner Pet Shuttles have a duty of care to make such decisions as may be necessary, based on veterinary advice received. Any veterinary costs incurred shall be the owners responsibility and where possible shall be billed directly to the owner. Any veterinary costs incurred by Pet Shuttles shall be forwarded to the owner for reimbursement. In the event that an animal requires veterinary attention during transport Pet Shuttles is not obligated to refund any prepaid transport fees.In the event we are required to take your animal to a vet, it is likely that the animal may be required to stay at the vet for an extended period of time and Pet Shuttles may not be able to wait for treatment to be finalised due to our ongoing Duty of Care for other animals on board. This may result in additional costs to the owner for extended care, boarding or alternative transport to complete the journey.It is the owners responsibility to inform Pet Shuttles of any illness, medical condition or special needs relevant to their animal prior to the animal being collected for transport. In the event that any Breeder or owner provides to Pet Shuttles any animal that is known to be unwell without disclosing the details to Pet Shuttles and other animals become unwell as a consequence they may be held liable for any additional costs or damages incurred by Pet Shuttles its staff or other clients. Brachycehalic breeds and Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)Pet Shuttles “Policy regarding the Transport of Brachycephalic Dogs and Cats”, which is attached at the bottom of these terms and conditions, shall be deemed to form a part of these terms & conditions in the event that we are contracted to transport an animal that is of a Brachycephalic breed. This policy includes but is not limited to the following conditions:The owner, sender and receiver acknowledge that:1. Their animal/s, being of a brachycephalic breed, are at a greater risk of suffering from BAOS or other health conditions during transport and that they understand that Pet Shuttles will only accept such animals for transport wholly at the owners risk.2. It is their responsibility to understand the risks to their animal associated with BAOS and to properly assess the animals condition and suitability for transport.3. Their animal has not previously required treatment for BAOS, any respiratory problems or heat stress.4. Our drivers may refuse to accept the animal for transport if it shows signs of advanced BAOS or is obese. In the event that an animal is not accepted for transport Pet Shuttles is not obligated to refund any prepaid transport fees.5. In the event of extremely hot weather conditions being forecast Pet Shuttles may postpone or cancel the transport of brachycephalic breeds or at risk animals. VaccinationsIt is, under all circumstances, entirely the owners responsibility to ensure that their own animal is appropriately vaccinated and protected according to their own needs and/or beliefs. During transport animals will come into contact with other animals and may be walked in public places. Young animals are not considered to be fully vaccinated until 1 week after their final vaccination at around 16 weeks or later. Pet Shuttles will not be held liable for the owners failure to ensure appropriate protection for their pets.Notwithstanding the above, young animals should not be transported within 7 days of receiving their first vaccinations due to an increased risk to the animal of contracting diseases, becoming unwell or suffering from side effects in this period following vaccination. Young animals transported within this period are carried entirely at the owners risk. Tranquilisers and sedativesIt is Pet Shuttles policy that tranquillizers or sedatives should not be used on animals being transported due to increased health risks to animals under sedation. Where tranquillizers are required they are to be arranged by the client and prescribed and issued by the client’s own veterinarian. Pet Shuttles will not be held responsible for complications arising from the administration or use of tranquillizers or sedatives. Exercising of animalsIt is Pet Shuttles policy to exercise dogs, as appropriate, whilst in our care. Apart from the obvious benefits it is at these times that we are most likely to notice any changes in your pets behaviour that may be an indication of a health concern. It is an inevitable consequence that there is an increased risk of loss, injury or the contraction of diseases whilst animals are being exercised in the same way as there is whilst they are being exercised in your own care. It is the owners responsibility to inform Pet Shuttles if they do not want their animal to be handled or exercised for any reason, however please note that this will also limit our ability to assess your pets health & condition. Dangerous animalsWe reserve the right not to transport or handle any animal that is considered to present a danger to any person or other animal and this shall be at the sole discretion of our staff. Interpretation and definitions of Terms & ConditionsThese terms and conditions form an integral part of any written or verbal Contract between Pet Shuttles and any client who contracts Pet Shuttles to transport any animal.“owner” means any person, company or organisation who enters into or is a party to a contract with Pet Shuttles to transport an animal including the breeder, trainer, consignor and the consignee.“Pet Shuttles” means the company, based in Campbelltown New South Wales, Australia, trading as Pet Shuttles and its employees. Employees of Pet Shuttles have the authority to enter into a contract on behalf of Pet Shuttles but have no authority to vary these terms & conditions.“animal” or “animals” means any animal, multiple of animals or other item provided to Pet Shuttles for the purpose of being transported.“consignor” means the person Pet Shuttles is contracted to collect the animal from.“consignee” means the person Pet Shuttles is contracted to deliver the animal to. Pet Shuttles information regarding the Transport and treatment of Brachycephalic Breeds What is Brachycephalic syndrome (BAOS)? (Sometimes referred to as BOAS or BAS)Some breeds of pedigree dogs & cats with very short muzzles (termed brachycephalic) can have difficulty breathing due to a disorder known as brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome (BAOS). These animals are at a greater risk of suffering from stress and requiring veterinary attention, or passing away, during transport both by Air and Road.In these dogs the skull length is reduced, but the amount of soft tissue in the muzzle is not, resulting in the same amount of tissue being squeezed into a smaller area. It is generally believed that this characteristic has been deliberately selected for in the past by Breeders and that it is a result of a preference for animals with flatter, more human looking features.Because all of these components make it more difficult to breathe, in situations of exercise, stress, excitement or hot conditions, an animal with these abnormalities may be unable to take deep or fast enough breaths leading to oxygen deprivation, a build up of carbon dioxide and an inability to properly regulate their body temperature through panting. This leads to distress and further increases respiratory rate, heart rate and temperature, creating a vicious cycle that can quickly lead to a life-threatening situation.Dogs experiencing a crisis situation due to brachycephalic syndrome typically benefit from oxygen, cool temperatures, sedatives, and in some cases more advance medical intervention including intubation. List of Brachycephalic animalsNot all breeds are affected to the same degree. Additionally some breeds are not common in Australia. It is likely that the degree of risk is proportional to the degree of flatness of the face in different breeds. Brachycephalic Dogs:Seriously affected breeds, problems should be expected and watched for.Bulldogs (All Breeds) PugBoston Terrier Japanese Spaniel, Chin, Japanese ChinPekingese
Breeds that are Brachycephalic and where problems are possible but more likely to be experienced only in the presence of other risk factors.Boxer (All Breeds) Cane Corso Chihuahua (Apple-Headed)Mastiffs (All Breeds) Japanese Chin Cavalier King Charles SpanielPit Bull Affenpinscher Bull Terriers (All Breeds Including Staffies and Amstaffs)Brussels Griffon Chow Chow English Toy Spaniel Lhasa Apso American Cocker Spaniel (not English Cocker Spaniel)Newfoundland Rottweiler Shih Tzu Tibetan Spaniel Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff)Shar-Pei Yorkshire Terrier Brachycephalic Cats:British Shorthair Himalayan CatBurmese Persian CatExotic Shorthair Symptoms or Signs associated with BAOS in these Breeds:Noisy Breathing Snoring CoughingReverse sneezing Nasal Congestion Shortness of breathHigh Blood Pressure Exercise intolerance Fainting or collapsingLow oxygen concentration in blood Excessive flatulence (From gulping air) Symptoms of this condition do not seem to be an issue in young puppies but should be watched for in mature animals from approximately 9 months of age. Specific additional risk factors for these animals include:Obesity Stress Hot Conditions Over ExcitementPrevious respiratory issues Previous incidences of heat stress Signs or Symptoms that may cause Pet Shuttles drivers to refuse to accept a Brachycephalic breed for transport:Nasal congestion Loud or unusual breathing Shortness of breathObesity Unusually hot weather conditions Signs of over excitement or stressAny previous respiratory issues relating to this condition If your pet is or does at times show any of the above signs of this problem, you must seriously consider whether it is appropriate to transport your animal. Please note that all major transporters within Australia and internationally have some form of limitation or waiver regarding the transport of Brachycephalic breeds and in the case your pet is severely affected even private transport by car may not be recommended. We suggest that you consult your veterinarian for further advice.
Heat Stress / Heat strokeHeat stress is a condition that these animals are particularly susceptible to due to their existing genetic and physical breed characteristics. Some animals will handle heat far better than others but all Brachycephalic animals have an impaired ability to properly regulate their body temperature to some degree. We do focus upon heat stress in our care of your animals, it is in fact the only risk factor with these animals that we have a partial ability to control. However it is important to be aware that a Brachycephalic animal suffering from over exertion, excitement or stress can suffer similar symptoms, leading to breathing difficulties, oxygen deprivation and possibly death in the absence of heat as a factor and in fact this situation can arise in a cool or air conditioned environment. These issues exist for all forms of transport, by road and by air. The nature of all animal transport is such that it is not possible for a driver or handler to monitor every animal at every moment, even with regular stops it is possible for an animal suffering from respiratory distress or heat stress to progress to a critical stage in a very short space of time with the risk that symptoms may go unnoticed and/or that by the time symptoms are noticed that it is not possible to get the animal appropriate care in time. Please note additionally that in some instances the physical location and time of day will be a factor in determining whether it is possible to get an animal to appropriate care in time.