[QorquisDad]

Since options are limited between NZ and Australia you do what needs to be done. Since the states are all connected by fairly well kept roads, why risk the safety of the pup to airline employees that really don't care what's in the "box". I know it's not a cardboard box. But it's still handled by strangers and stowed in a dark cold scary place on the plane.

Granted, puppys do tend to recover quickly from the confusion of being transported away from their original environment. I'm of the belief that if you can avoid exposing the pup to any more confusion and trauma than is really needed, you might want to try.

I guess it really comes down to personal preference. Me, I'd take the time off work and bring my other dogs with for a road trip. That's obviously not something everyone can do.