Pets

I moved there several years ago with 2 cats, and all I had to do to bring them was have a certificate of health dated within 2 weeks prior to my departure to the islands stating that they were up to date on their shots, and that they were free of communicable diseases such as Parvo, Feline Leukemia, and Feline HIV, as well as having current rabies vaccinations. They had to be older than 6 weeks old (which I am assuming your are), and have their own cages. You may want to check into airlines....they may have restrictions on where in the plane they can travel, and if it's hotter than a certain temperature outside, then certain airlines won't let them go. I flew down on Delta, which made them ride in cargo, and the temp limit was irrelevant since their cargo area was air-conditioned.

Good luck....you may want to also ask your vet to give them a little Valium for the trip....mine were basket cases when we got there. The next trip home, they had a sedative, and did great...woke up as if nothing happened.

I am flying to stx on friday(one way) with my cat too. All that you need is a certificate of health 10 days prior to leaving for the islands,Shot records for parvo Feline lukemia etc. American airlines will not let you put your animal in the bagage compartment. You have to pay $85 to take the cat as a carry-on. My cat has a big stash of downers for the trip. My wife and I are also looking at buying a duplex near Christiansted. We would accept pets. I'll let you know how it is going in a week. All of the info that you will need is in the Settelers Hand Book. It is very helpful. JK

Claude,
You should clarify the pets policy with the realtor and/or condos association directly. I do know that most (if not all) condos do not accept dogs, but I have heard of exceptions for cats. Try asking your realtor if they are familiar with any condo compexes that make exceptions for cats.
On the question of why...I have three cats (and one dog) on STT. My landlord has allowed us to have the pets b/c we are solid tenants, but she is by no stretch of the imagination "pet-friendly." She, like many on-island, believe that animals should serve a distinct purpose. E.G. guard-dog, protector. I had a conversation with her recently wherein she discussed the smell that cats leave in a home. Now, I know I have been in some homes where the whole place reeks of cat spray, but ours have been neutered for so long we are fortunate not to have this problem.
Although you would be buying your condo, not renting, perhaps this is part of the rationale behind a no-cats policy? Also, perahps the associations are concerned that owners would let their cats out who would proceed to destroy the landscaping and kill the wildlife around the complex? Just opining.

Thank you very much. Our cats are also neutered and spayed since kittens, the are only indoor cats, box litter trained and have been provided with their carpeted tree where they can also climb and scratch to their heart content. We would bring that with us. Thank you again. John & Claude Merlo

Thank you very much for the information, we'll be looking forward to hearing from you again. Good luck to you all on the move. John and Claude Merlo

Hi-
I just read through this thread and had a question about the medical exam for animals. I read in the settlers guide that you needed to get a clean bill of health statement 30 days before entering the islands. These threads mentioned 10 days prior to traveling. Has it changed???
thanks Sarah
I am bringing my dog when I move on August 1st!