I moved one of my dogs from Hawaii to the United States and I think I was more worried than she was. Although she was terribly scared and had 'the runs' for a few days afterwards she actually was fine. I however...in saying that...I would not do it on a commercial airliner again unless it was 100% necessary or unless she could be in the cabin with me, it is cold and very loud in the area they keep the pets. If you are relocating to Aussie of course you should take her but if it is a holiday I wouldnt.
I work for a private charter airline and we get alot of people that travel with their pets on us because they just sit in the cabin with you and dont need to be crated (normaly depends on the pet) alot of times people pay the extra to travel that way because they do not want to either leave their babies at home.
I would be sure you boy is in tip top shape before flying him and speak to your vet (as i am sure you have ) to see if they think he needs tranqulizers or not, some dogs do becasue they are too hyper. good luck....

Eurynome,

I've never flown any of my pets anywhere so have no personal experience.

However, I think your 'friend' is nuts! I have followed your posts about trying to find a place for your dog here in the U.S., and always wished you could take him home with you. Now that you can (I guess a spot opened up in OZ quarrantine), do it!

As I understand it, airlines have to give you all the info about how your pet will be shipped, some are supposedly better than others. Do your research, find out which one has the best methods, and find out what you need to do to prepare your dog for the trip. Maybe find a vet who is knowledgable about international moves, ask her/him for advice.

I doubt your dog is going to enjoy the flight and quarrantine, but I don't think he'll be eternally traumatized by it either.

What did your 'friend' think you should do, give up your dog? I really cannot fathom this person's thinking...

Please keep us informed, I'd really like to hear how this goes. Good Luck!