September 2, 2026

Go!

As it turns out, the way we got up and went did not go the way we anticipated. After weeks of planning with our veterinarian clinic making sure all T's were crossed and I's were dotted for Mishka's health certificate (and investing a significant amount of money into the process), our state USDA Animal Health and Plant Inspection Service (AHPIS) failed. They were aware of our flight information and had the maximum number of days to process Mishka's health certificate. We found out 4:50 p.m. last Friday that it was still pending. This meant the certificate could not be signed off in time for the required hard copy to arrive via pre-arranged overnight shipping Monday for our departure on Tuesday.

Our vet's office even contacted them to request an in-person pickup and the request was declined. The woman helping us at the clinic took it upon herself to contact Rep Larsen and we have filed a request for them to look into this on our behalf. It seems many travelers from various states are encountering the same issues. Ugh.

Daughter Kate generously offered to keep Mishka at home until we can make arrangements for the dog to join us when we get settled in France. As disappointed and frustrated as we were, our 6 weeks traveling through Slovenia and Italy will be less complicated without a dog in tow.

Joe scored us THE best seats in coach by researching the plane and seating ahead of time. We enjoyed lots of leg room which was a game changer for the 8.5 hour flight to Frankfurt.