Vicenza, Italy - Summer is here, and with it, the traditional PCS season. In addition to household goods and POV shipment, many people also have to contend with shipping a pet.
Pet owners may be interested to know that a fairly new private charitable organization is active on post.
This organization is called "PCS Pet Project of Italy" and got started last June. It was recognized by the garrison as a private organization in November 2014.
"Originally, it started because I moved here with a Great Dane, a very big dog, and an African parrot," said LeeAnn Farris, who is the founder and president of the organization.
"Everybody told me 'you have to get rid of the bird, you will never get him in the country', and even though it was a long process, he is here," she added.
Farris realized how hard it was being able to find accurate information.
"Getting any help it's hard both ways, but, I think, it is easier going back because at least you have done it once."
After experiencing some issues throughout her move from the States, Farris decided to help others who might have to face a similar situation.
"As a group, we formed to help families PCSing to and from our Vicenza community with pets that can't use the free shuttle due to the shuttle bus policy that has changed since last July, and larger animals are not able to ride on it," Farris explained.
"Our website provides accurate information and forms needed to PCS with a pet here. Through our fundraising efforts we are able to cover the costs for most or all of the PCS pick-ups and drop-offs we are doing," she said.
Since this past February, the organization has been able to arrange five bake sales that help cover the costs associated with picking up and dropping off pets and families to and from the airport, including gas, tolls, parking and supplies needed for clean-up.
According to Farris, one of the main areas members of the organization offer assistance is when newcomers arrive at the airport.
"Now I know what I have to do because I have done it once before, but it's an all-day process because you have to go through six different offices before they release the pet to their owners. So it's difficult, especially on top of the twelve to 18-hour flight," she continued.
Farris' best piece of advice for everybody is to start as soon as possible and to know all that you can know about it.
"The more prepared you are, the easier it is to get through the different problems that you may come up with and to realize that every single airline is a little bit different," she said.
Currently, the organization has a total of seven volunteers, but they are hoping to add new members, especially before some of the current members PCS next year.
"We have monthly meetings, generally at the library conference room, open to the public so everybody can come and ask information and we also have a Facebook page," Farris said.
For all those who need information and would like to volunteer, the PPP of Italy also has a new website https://www.pcspetprojectofitaly.org
Social Sharing