Whether you are jet-setting away on your next holiday, or perhaps you are moving overseas or going on a business trip – whatever the case may be, if you are planning on bringing your furry friend along, there are many factors you need to consider before you take the leap. With all the logistics and hoops you need to jump through, it can seem that there is so much paperwork, vet checks and forms to sign before you embark on your journey– but fear not, we have a guide to help prepare you and your pet for international pet travel.
Pet travel companies are there to to take away some of the administrative side of the process, assisting with veterinary requirements, health documents and custom clearance forms. It’s so important that your companion feels safe, secure and ready for travel. There are some vital steps that you can take to get them pre-prepared. We will dive into these.
Background checkups: Pet’s health in tip-top shape
International Pet Travel from NZ can best be achieved through careful consideration and planning. Your pet will need to have health clearance, potential vaccinations, quarantine at times and other health precautions too. These regulations all depend on what country you are travelling to. As a non-negotiable, your pet will need to have a veterinary check-up to deem them fit to fly.
Scheduling your pet’s checkup should be around 1 month prior, but some specific countries require this check much more in advance. Make sure you check this with the country that you are visiting’s website. At the check-up, your vet should double-ensure that all vaccinations are done, including rabies, which is a commonly checked and regulated illness, deemed important in numerous countries.
Now is a good time to start discussing calming measures for your animal if they get anxious easily. Sedatives are not allowed on most flights for pets, so consider other options that are not medical. Remember, if this is your pet’s first time travelling by air, they may act out or be a little more cautious than usual. It’s time to reassure them and keep them comforted.
Identification central: Your pet is chipped
The next step in preparation for international pet travel from New Zealand is your pet’s identification. Your vet will need to make sure that if your pet hasn’t already, they have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip. This microchip needs to be linked to you and your specific details. This could be relevant if your cat or dog was a rescue and has been rehomed. Make sure you add an ID tag to your animal as well so that your name and number read on the tag.
Your pet’s arrival needs to be country-specific.
International Pet Travel from New Zealand can be straightforward, but it can get more complex depending on where you are travelling to. It’s paramount that you research the entry requirements for the country you are flying to. Depending on the country, there can be quarantine periods, and without complying, you run the risk of your pet being sent back. It’s worth noting that you can also check your carrier’s airline policy to see if they have small pet exceptions. Sometimes, small pets can fly into the cabin without going into the cargo hold. Remember to prepare your pet for international travel; you may also need to prepare a pet passport. This is dependent again on the country you travel to. Do your research before you show up. There may also be import permits as well.
Part 1: General Crate Requirements
For 4 hours to sometimes up to 24 hours, your pet will have a home away from home in the form of a crate. This crate will be vital for your pet’s safety and comfort during a flight. The IATA (International Air Transport Association) has some specifics for you to follow when selecting your animals’ living arrangements for their international flight:
- Your pet’s crate will need to be escape-proof and well-ventilated, matching the size of their stature too.
- Your pet should be able to stand up, lie down and turn around effortlessly. It’s worth noting that you also shouldn’t go to the other extreme and purchase a supremely spacious crate. The crate needs to be just right so your pet can remain calm in potential turbulence scenarios.
Part 2: A more familiar Crate
Introduce the crate to your pet a week or two before they travel overseas. This is mainly to help reduce stress and accommodate them to their new living space. It could be nice to add a small scarf or top of yours so they can be reminded of you and feel safe. Over those few weeks, allow your pet to be curious about the crate, increasing the time they spend inside it. They will gradually lock in some positive associations. This could aid your pet in becoming familiar with it by the time they have to fly overseas. This is one of our top pet safety travel tips.
Part 3: Crate showtime
- Make sure there is a non-spill water bowl for your special pet so they remain hydrated.
- Put your pet’s name on the outside, clearly visible
- Absorbent pads can be effective in lining the crate just in case of any spills.
Pet’s journey abroad
Before your pet is ready to jet-set abroad, you should bring them to check in early. It’s paramount that you ensure they arrive on time for the flight. To minimise stress for your animal, remain calm and collected– they will be able to sense any heightened emotions.
Back at their new home away from home
Make sure your pet gets to look around the new area they are staying in. It’s crucial for them to adjust, and this sense of curiosity should be rewarded. Adjusting at their own pace will help in a positive transition. Make sure you stick to their original feeding and exercise routine so they can feel more secure in their new environment. At this time, it’s also great to give them extra attention and reassurance.
Airport Pets
To minimise administration tasks and be 100% sure that things will run like clockwork, look to Airport Pets. We help prepare international pet travel from New Zealand. Hopefully, these tasks are effective prep for you to go about booking your pet’s flight, but if you are seeking more confidence, consider having some extra help for arranging the fine-tuned details so both you and your pet have a successful experience abroad. It’s also part of our service to deliver your pet directly to Auckland Airport, ready for their travels. Airport Pets will help book your pet’s flight, and this can often be in sync with your plans as well.