There may be others out there that are in the same predicament as myself and who wish to take their adopted pets back to the UK.  These FAQ's will give you an idea of what you can expect.

1.  Where do you buy cat food and other supplies from?

I currently purchase all of my cat food and toys, flea collars etc from www.netgrocer.com  They will deliver to APO addresses within about a week.  If you have no access to APO and have to use BFPO then just get family and friends to send it in to you in a shoe box no heavier than 2kg.

2.  Is there a vet in Baghdad to treat sick animals?

Sadly there is no vet in the IZ, however, there are Vets in the Red Zone that will be more than happy to come into the IZ and treat your pets for a price.  The US Military Vets are unable to assist.

3.  What paperwork is required to take the animals out of Baghdad by air?

A vet will need to sign off on a certificate for each animal declaring it fit to travel and free from disease.  Again, there is a Vet in the Red Zone that can do this.

4.  What happens next?

Once you have the paperwork signed by the Vet then you need to book your animal on a flight from Baghdad to Amman with Royal Jordanian, please check the RJ website for further details.  On arrival in Amman you will need to visit the CARGO section of RJ and make a booking for your pet to travel.  This has to be paid for at the time of booking. Once you have made the booking it is advisable to book into a hotel for the night to allow the cats to rest prior to the flight back to the UK, The Four Seasons in Amman will accept your pets.  Please note that you must use an IATA approved carrier to transport your animals.  Details can be found at http://www.iata.org/ps/publications/lar.htm and http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/quarantine/quarantine/qindex.htm

5. What happens when my pet arrives in the UK?

Upon entry into the UK your pet must be collected from the Airport by your authorised carrier, you will not be allowed to collect your pet.  Once they are collected they will be seen by a Vet and given Rabies shots.  It does not matter if your pet has already had a Rabies shot, he will get another and he will be wormed and de-loused etc.  Once all of the checks have been completed your pet will be transported to Quarantine where they will remain in isolation from other animals for a period of 6 months.  If you have 2 pets travelling together your Quarantine Kennels may allow them to be housed together.  You will need to check this with the establishment you choose.  You will be allowed to visit your pets during this time and it is advised that you visit as often as possible in order to maintain the bond between you and your pet.

6.  What does it all cost?

Costs involved in this type of venture are high.  It is best to check with the Quarantine Kennels and all other parties involved as to what the exact cost will be prior to travel.

If you require further information on what happens when sending an animal back to the UK please email me.