Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about pet shipping, international transportation, and our services. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact our team directly.
What are the differences between in-cabin, excess baggage, and manifest cargo?
There are three main ways pets can travel by air. In-Cabin Pet Travel means a pet travels in the cabin with a human traveler, with average weight limits of 8 kg/17 lbs and kennel dimensions of 18 x 11 x 11 inches. The ticket holder manages all flight arrangements and customs. Excess Baggage Pet Travel is when pets travel in climate-controlled cargo holds using IATA-regulated hard-shell kennels. The booking attaches to a human traveler who handles check-in and customs procedures. Manifest Cargo Pet Travel is similar to excess baggage, but the pet's flight booking is independent. Industry representatives typically manage booking, check-in, and customs clearance.
What can travel with my pet?
When your pet travels, several items are permitted to ensure their comfort and safety. You can include a pet travel kennel meeting IATA specifications, up to 16 ounces of food affixed to the kennel, two secure leak-proof water containers inside the kennel, absorbent pads such as puppy training pads or towels, and comfort items like blankets or clothing that smell of home. These items help your pet feel more secure during their journey.
Can my pet be medicated during travel?
Anti-anxiety medications are discouraged because they can lower a pet's blood pressure, which becomes problematic with aircraft pressurization. Both IATA and the American Veterinary Medical Association recommend against sedation during air travel. Instead, holistic alternatives like pheromone products (such as Adaptil for dogs or Feliway for cats) are suggested as safer options to help keep your pet calm during the journey.
Do you offer travel insurance?
Yes, each pet that travels with us is insured up to the cost of the pet travel contract. This insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection throughout your pet's journey. We ensure that your beloved companion is protected during every step of their travel experience.
How does booking my pet as manifest cargo work?
Pet travel industry representatives typically handle manifest cargo bookings on your behalf. Airlines have specific booking windows that range from 5 to 30 days before departure, which allows time for airline review and confirmation. This advance booking window ensures that all necessary arrangements are properly coordinated and approved before your pet's travel date.
How far in advance should I engage a pet travel agency?
You should engage a pet travel agency at least 60+ days before your planned travel date. This advance notice is crucial because veterinary import requirements typically require more than 60 days for completion. This timeline allows for proper verification of vaccine records, obtaining necessary health certificates, securing import permits, and completing any other destination-specific requirements. Early planning helps avoid last-minute complications and ensures a smooth travel experience for your pet.
How do heat embargoes work?
Airlines impose heat embargoes when temperatures exceed 27°C (80°F) at any point in the journey - including origin, destination, or connection cities. These embargoes are safety measures to protect pets from heat stress during travel. Extended summer embargoes may apply specifically to brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats, as these breeds are more susceptible to breathing difficulties in warm conditions. Heat embargoes can prevent travel on affected routes during certain times of the year.
What is the benefit of hiring a professional pet travel service?
Hiring a professional pet travel management company offers numerous advantages. You receive tailored relocation timelines designed specifically for your situation, dedicated project management with a single point of contact, multi-timezone support ensuring assistance whenever you need it, contingency planning for flight cancellations or unexpected changes, and consolidated pricing with all services covered in one transparent contract. Our expertise eliminates the stress and complexity of coordinating international pet travel on your own.
What is the cost breakdown for door-to-door service?
Our door-to-door pet travel service cost is structured transparently with three main components: 20% covers the pet travel management service fee for expert coordination and planning, 50% covers origin services including pickup, kennel preparation, documentation, veterinary checks, and airport transportation, and 30% covers destination services including customs clearance, airport pickup, and delivery to your new home. This all-inclusive pricing ensures there are no hidden fees or surprise charges.
How far in advance should I book my pet's transportation?
For international moves, we recommend booking 6-8 weeks in advance to allow time for health certificates, import permits, and airline scheduling. For domestic relocations, 2-3 weeks is typically sufficient. Military families with urgent PCS orders can often be accommodated with shorter notice.
Do you handle all the paperwork and documentation?
Absolutely. We manage all required documentation including health certificates, import/export permits, customs clearance, and airline-specific requirements. Our team uses AI-powered validation to catch potential issues before they cause delays, ensuring your pet's documents are 100% compliant.
What size travel kennel does my pet need?
We'll provide detailed sizing guidelines based on your pet's measurements. All kennels must meet IATA Live Animals Regulation standards. Your pet should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. We can arrange kennel delivery or recommend local suppliers.
Is pet shipping safe? What are the risks?
Pet shipping is statistically very safe when done professionally. Our 99.8% success rate reflects our commitment to safety protocols. We use climate-controlled flights, provide personal escorts when needed, and maintain 24/7 monitoring. All pets receive veterinary health checks before travel.
Can I track my pet during the journey?
Yes! We provide real-time location updates, photos, and status reports throughout your pet's journey. You'll receive notifications at every major milestone - pickup, airport check-in, flight departure/arrival, customs clearance, and final delivery.
Do you provide door-to-door service?
Yes, we offer complete door-to-door service worldwide. This includes pickup from your current home, transportation to departure airport, all flight arrangements, customs clearance at destination, and delivery to your new home - even in remote locations.
What happens if there are flight delays or changes?
Flight disruptions are handled immediately by our 24/7 operations team. We maintain relationships with multiple airlines to quickly rebook when needed. Your pet's safety and comfort are prioritized - we'll arrange overnight accommodations if necessary and keep you informed every step of the way.
Can you help with military PCS moves?
Military pet relocations are our specialty! We understand PCS timelines, OCONUS requirements, and work within military budgets. We've successfully coordinated moves to every major military installation worldwide and can accommodate last-minute orders and emergency transfers.
What health requirements does my pet need?
Requirements vary by destination but typically include current rabies vaccination, health certificate from USDA-accredited veterinarian, and sometimes additional vaccines or treatments. We provide a detailed checklist specific to your destination and coordinate with your veterinarian.
Do you ship exotic pets or just dogs and cats?
While dogs and cats are our primary focus, we also arrange transportation for rabbits, birds, and other small animals. Each species has unique requirements, so we evaluate each case individually. Some destinations have restrictions on certain animals.
What if my pet has medical conditions or special needs?
We regularly transport senior pets and those with medical conditions. We work closely with veterinarians to ensure safe travel plans, coordinate medication schedules, and can arrange for veterinary escorts on long flights when medically necessary.
How do quarantine requirements work?
Quarantine requirements vary by country. Some destinations like Hawaii, Australia, and the UK have mandatory quarantine periods. We help you understand these requirements, arrange approved facilities, and can coordinate visits where permitted.
Can my pet travel in the cabin with me?
Small pets (typically under 15-20 lbs) may qualify for cabin travel on some airlines. However, most international relocations require cargo transport due to size restrictions and import regulations. We'll advise on the best option for your specific situation.
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