Where Do I Collect My Pet at the Airport?
Pets fly as cargo for domestic pet transport within Australia. Pick-up zones may vary depending on the airport – but usually the cargo or freight terminal.
When using Dogtainers, collecting your pet also differs depending on who you fly with.
Virgin Ports
Generally, you collect pets at the cargo or freight terminal area. Don’t go to the normal checked baggage claim area to collect your pet – they won’t be there.
Qantas Ports
Those using Dogtainers and flying into Melbourne or Sydney should collect your pets at our office in the respective cities. For all other Qantas flights, you can collect your pet directly from the airport.
For BOAS pets like French Bulldogs or Persian Cats, a Dogtainers representative must be present for handover.
How Long After Arrival Should I Collect My Pet?
Airline staff remove pets from the plane first – they get priority for safety reasons. So pets get taken to the cargo/freight collection area quite quickly.
- You can collect your pet around 30 to 90 minutes after their flight arrives.
- Generally, they’re ready for release around 30 minutes after the plane lands.
- Airline staff won’t hold your pet for more than 90 minutes.
You must collect pets within this timeframe. Because staff aren’t equipped to care for them over extended periods.
We understand reaching the pet collection area within this window can sometimes be stressful or even impossible.
This is where a reliable pet transport company like Dogtainers can help. One of our expert handlers can be ready to collect your pet and safely transport them to your final destination.
Flying your pet into Melbourne or Sydney with Qantas and using Dogtainers?
The collection process differs slightly. You can collect your pet from the Dogtainers Melbourne or Sydney office instead of the airport.
Your pet will be available for collection at the respective office 60 to 90 minutes after arrival.
For all other Qantas arrivals, collect your pet directly at the airport within the above timeframes.
Do I Take My Pet Home in the Crate They Flew In?
You may wonder if you can bring your pet home in the crate they flew in. This depends on whether you bought or hired the crate.
You can take your pet home in the crate they flew in if you own it. We recommend cleaning it out after the flight so your pet is comfortable for the trip to your final destination.
For cat transport, we recommend only opening the crate in a secure area – like inside a car or van – or waiting until you arrive home. Cats can be very fast, and you don’t want them to escape at the airport.
Crates you hire from us need to stay at the airport, and you can’t take them home. In this case, we recommend bringing another crate to transport your pet home.
Make sure you have a harness and leash for your dog. You can securely take them from the freight area to your car.
For cats and small dogs, we recommend bringing your crate to the collection point. Transfer them from our hire crate to your own in a secure area ready for the ride home.
Will My Pet Feel OK After the Flight?
Flying your pets is a safe way to travel for them. Of course, not all pets react the same way to a flight.
Physical Health After Travel
After a domestic flight, your pet might feel tired, thirsty, or hungry. It’s normal for them to be restless, while some may be sleepy.
Flying is a new and tiring experience for many pets. Sometimes, it tires even the most jet-setting ones.
Signs of Discomfort
Watch out for signs that your pet might not be feeling well. These can include excessive panting, drooling, trembling, or refusing to move.
Give your pet extra care and attention if they seem overly anxious or unsteady. Most pets settle down pretty quickly.
What You Can Do
Offer your pet fresh water and a light snack to make them more comfortable. We recommend not feeding them within 8 hours of departure, so a snack will go down well.
A short walk can also help your dog stretch their legs and settle down after the flight. Give them plenty of time to adjust and make sure they feel safe and secure.
Will My Pet Be Anxious When They Arrive?
Some pets are more anxious than offers after their flight. Here are some things to consider.
Recognising Anxiety
After a flight, your pet may feel anxious or stressed. Signs of anxiety can include pacing, whining, excessive panting, or trying to hide.
Some pets may also be shaky or clingy. They’re seeking extra comfort from you.
How to Comfort Your Pet
Speak to your pet softly and gently to calm them. Offer some treats or a favourite toy to create a sense of familiarity.
Allow your pet some time to adjust to new surroundings. Be patient and avoid any sudden movements that could increase anxiety.
Settling In After the Journey
Once you’re home, create a quiet and cosy space where your pet can relax. Give your pet access to water, its bed, and a few familiar items.
Let them have time to settle in. Your pet will start to feel more secure and comfortable in no time.
Domestic Pet Travel With Dogtainers
We help you plan and prepare for a smooth and stress-free domestic pet travel experience. Some of our popular domestic destinations are:
Spots might get snapped up quickly because space for pets is limited on planes.
Generally, we can secure flights three months in advance. But we’re limited to 14 days before departure with Qantas.
Flying with pets in Australia can be a smooth process with the right approach.
We’ve been perfecting stress-free pet transport for 50+ years.
Get your quote today for domestic pet travel.
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