Logistics

SPCA International wants to ensure the safe travel and humane care of the animals that embark on their life-changing journey to the U.S. as part of Patriot Pets (formerly known as Operation Baghdad Pups: Worldwide). The logistics required to rescue the mascots and companion animals of U.S. military personnel deployed overseas involve the extensive and diligent coordination of our resources and expertise. Your generous contributions will help SPCA International bring the dogs and cats of our brave service members to a safe, happy, forever home in the U.S.

In coordination with the service member who wishes to bring a stray dog or cat home, the following steps are required to complete the clearance and transport process:

  1. Initial request submitted and reviewed.
  2. Application and detailed information about Patriot Pets is sent to the service member.
  3. The completed application must be returned within 30 days.
  4. SPCAI staff confirms the animal meets the program requirements.
  5. Coordination of required vaccinations begins. 
  6. Communication with the applicant continues.
  7. Coordination of pick up and transport of animal(s) to partner kennels.
  8. Animals are examined by a local veterinarian and given additional required vaccinations and/or treatments.
  9. In order to continue our work, we require the applicant to be financially responsible for $900 per dog (up to 2) and $450 per cat (up to 2) made in two installments. (The average total cost per animal is $5000 for dogs and $2500 for cats).
  10. Animals are then placed in the queue for departure in the order of arrival at the local kennel. Timeline is dependent on vaccinations and the number of animals waiting to leave;  due to the new CDC regulations for dog importation to the US, the timeline for bringing your dog home will be between three to five months from the day we receive your dog and vaccinate him for Rabies (subject to change due to possible new CDC regulations, in addition to flight availabilities, and other potential factors).
  11. International flights are coordinated and scheduled. Please note that flights do not depart daily. There are many restrictions that may impede the transport: aircraft size and availability, coordination with flight volunteers, kennel space on aircraft, heat restrictions, export ministry office closures, illness, vaccinations, costs and route.
  12. Coordination of international travel paperwork begins.
  13. Plans are finalized with the applicant.
  14. Delivery of animal(s) to the airport is arranged. 
  15. Animal departs. Depending on the route, this could take between 2 to 7 days to reach the U.S.
  16. Upon arrival, the animal is examined by a stateside veterinarian and boosted for rabies (dogs).
  17. Coordination of domestic cargo flight or ground transport with the family of the applicant is booked. THE CONSIGNEE MUST CONFIRM THE EMAIL BOOKING WITHIN 24 HOURS.
  18. Animal arrives HOME!
  19. Mission complete:
    • Applicant/family sends a confirmation to staff upon arrival of the animal(s)
    • Applicants must submit a review of their experience with Patriot Pets on Great Non-Profits and Google. This helps our program grow so we can continue to save more lives!

Your ongoing support helps not only to save the lives of these loyal animal companions but also to show our appreciation to our service men and women for the sacrifices they willingly make every day to protect our freedom.  Help continue the healing relationship that develops between our military and these very important pets – donate today!