Pet owners understand the joy of including pets in every aspect of life. Travelling with pets is one part some of you might be unfamiliar with though.
Whether you’re holidaying domestically or relocating overseas, bringing your pets can be easier than you might think. But you need to be prepared and plan accordingly for your next adventure with your furry companion.
The safety, comfort and well-being of your pet is the highest priority. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about travelling with pets.
Let’s jump into:
- Pet travel preparation
- Pet transportation options
- Health and safety for your pets
- Preparing for arrival at your destination
- Choosing a pet transport company to help
Pet Travel Preparation

Preparing before you travel with your pet is crucial for their safety. Poor preparation can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety, which we’ll help you avoid in this section.
Preparing well in advance before international relocation is also vital. Because bringing pets into Australia can take up to six months or more, depending on the departure country.
Pre-travel pet health
A comprehensive pre-travel health check-up ensures pets are healthy enough to travel. This is the first step to establishing their safety before you begin your adventure.
Visiting a vet ensures they can:
- assess your pet’s overall health
- perform any vaccinations
- provide a pet health certificate if needed
The vet also gives your pet treatments against common diseases and parasites. For instance, flea and tick treatments, heartworm prevention, and other medications. It depends on your travel destination and route.
We always advise speaking with a pet transport company before going to see a vet. Because if you don’t, you may end up having to get procedures done twice.
Although not directly related to your pet’s health, pet microchipping is something to consider to ensure their safety. Losing them during transport would cause you and your pet unthinkable stress.
Microchipping offers security for a safe reunion – often, it’s also a legal requirement.
Pet-friendly travel destinations
Travelling to a pet-friendly destination sets you on your way to an unforgettable experience with your beloved pet. Some countries are friendlier towards pets than others.
Researching destinations is vital before committing to international pet transport. You need to make sure your destination allows pet imports when relocating internationally.
Dogtainers services many international destinations. These include the following:
We also handle international pet transport to popular Asian destinations such as:
Different countries and jurisdictions have varying pet travel rules. Being mindful of these is always a good idea – don’t worry, we cover that soon.
Finding pet-friendly accommodation
Imagine arriving at your accommodation only to discover it’s not pet-friendly – whoops! You probably wouldn’t live that one down for a while.
Finding pet-friendly accommodation before you leave means you won’t need to. You won’t look foolish, and your pet will feel more at ease in pet-friendly digs. It’s a win-win.
Sometimes, finding accommodation suitable for your pet is easier said than done.
We can provide pet accommodation at one of our kennels or catteries while you secure a more long-term option.
Understanding travel regulations and restrictions
You need to understand the pet travel regulations of your destination country to travel with pets smoothly. Rules around leash laws, pet behaviour and designated pet areas can vary from country to country.
Finding yourself on the wrong side of the law would be a real downer. Pet transport companies like us can provide all the necessary information, helping you and your pet enjoy your destination country and stay within the law.
Travel restrictions for pets are something else to consider. Details like age, breed, and health can affect your travel plans, with some countries and airlines restricting travel based on these factors.
For instance, pets generally must be at least eight weeks old to travel, though sometimes even older than that.
Even though Australia is a rabies-free country, the rabies titre test is also a factor to acknowledge. Many countries require this test, AKA rabies neutralising antibody titre test (RNATT), to authorise your pet to enter the country.
The rabies titre test is vital when relocating pets internationally.
It proves your pet has been vaccinated against rabies and is immune. The result lets the destination country know it’s safe for your pet to enter.
Selecting an appropriate pet carrier
Choosing the best pet carrier is vital for transporting your pet safely. It should suit your pet’s size, breed and travel requirements.
Your pet will be uncomfortable if the crate is too small. Those too big are a safety concern for your pet – moving around inside potentially causes harm.
The carrier must be airline-approved and the correct size when flying with pets. Otherwise, airline staff will turn them away and prevent them from flying.
We always help customers select an appropriate pet carrier that meets International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) requirements. These crates offer enough ventilation, security, and space for a safe and comfortable journey.
Acclimating your pets for travel
You can help reduce your pet’s stress and anxiety during travel by acclimating them to the pet carrier. Introduce them to the crate before the trip so they get familiar with it.
Familiarity with the pet carrier makes them feel safer and more secure.
Exposing them to the travel process is also a good idea. New experiences can be stressful for your pet, just like they can be for us, and getting them used to it eases their anxiety.
When they’re familiar with the crate, you can:
- Introduce some travel noises – Play recordings from YouTube or similar, starting low and increasing the volume over time.
- Practise short car trips – Take them around the neighbourhood first, increasing the journey over time when they get comfortable.
Following these steps will help reduce anxiety for your pet.
Packing pet essentials
Bringing a pet travel kit will make the trip easier for your pet. It’ll simplify things for you as well – you don’t want to be waste-bagless with poop to deal with.
Some items to include on the list are:
- Food and water – We recommend feeding your pet eight hours before travel. They can experience an upset stomach and vomiting if they eat closer to travel time. But bring food for longer rest stops, and always have water available.
- Medication – Ensure you have enough for the entire trip if your pet needs it. Keep meds in original containers and bring any prescription documents.
- Comfort items – Include familiar toys, bedding, or blankets your pet associates with security and comfort to reduce stress and anxiety. If flying, you may not be able to have some or all of those items in your pet’s crate, but this depends on the specific airline’s pet travel policies.
- Disposable waste bags – Don’t get caught short at an inconvenient time. Stock up before your adventure begins.
- Pet wipes or wet towels – Keep your pet fresh during the trip, doing them and yourself a favour in the process.
- Portable litter box or pee pads – Cat owners, you can bring a portable litter box so your pets have a familiar place to go. Some dogs might be used to going on pee pads (looking at those city-slicking apartment pooches).
These tips will help make the trip smoother for you and your furry companion. They’ll also help those who want a safe road trip with their dog.
Pet Transportation Options

Let’s look at some pet transportation options you have and cover tips for flying with pets.
International pet air travel
Relocating overseas is a daunting task. Including your pet in the equation can add stress, but it doesn’t have to.
You’ll need to follow the pet import rules of the destination country and satisfy any veterinary requirements. Some other considerations are:
- Completing the necessary documentation
- Choosing the correct carrier for your pet’s size and breed
- Following the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and airline regulations
Requirements change depending on the airline you’re flying with. Here are some general airline guidelines for pets:
- Travel in an airline-approved pet carrier, correctly sized
- Not exceed 65kgs (including the carrier)
- Not be heavily pregnant
- At least 8-12 weeks old
- Generally healthy
- Not aggressive
- Not sedated
- Not injured
International pet travel requirements
Countries have different requirements for international pet transport. For instance, depending on the departure country, you need to consider the following when importing pets into Australia:
- Pet eligibility – the departure country, quarantine restrictions, pet pregnancy, and age determine eligibility for importing pets to Australia.
- Banned breeds – Australia bans some dog and cat breeds from entering the country (find out more about Banned Dog and Cat Breeds in Australia).
- Microchipping – Pet dogs and cats must be microchipped before travelling to or from Australia.
- Identity verification – Pets from certain countries need to have their identities verified by authorities in the exporting country.
- Vaccinations – Cats and dogs must be vaccinated against rabies and other common diseases before entry. Pets also need a rabies titre test to measure the effectiveness of the immunisation.
- Health checks – Government-approved vets need to perform a health check for pets.
- Parasite treatment – You must get pet dogs and cats treated for internal and external parasites.
- Health certificate – Pets need a health certificate from a government-approved vet.
- Import permit – Cats and dogs must have a valid import permit to enter Australia. You can apply for permits online using the Biosecurity Import Conditions system (BICON).
- Quarantine – All imported international pets complete their mandatory quarantine in Melbourne at Mickleham Post-Entry Quarantine (PEQ). Pets must spend a minimum of ten days in quarantine, but most pets from New Zealand and Norfolk Island will not need quarantine.
These are general guidelines only. Australia splits countries into four categories for importing pets, and requirements vary for each group.
Bringing Pets into Australia (Best Advice for 2024) gives you more comprehensive guidelines.
Not all countries have the same requirements. For instance, the process for transporting pets to the UK can differ from Australia.
Pet passport
You usually won’t need a pet passport for international pet travel. Pet Passports are prevalent within the European Union (EU), but their usage is not widespread beyond it.
A Pet Passport has essential details such as your pet’s identification, ownership and medical information. The document includes:
- Microchip details
- Rabies vaccinations
- Rabies titre test results
- Int./ext. parasite treatments
- Other immunisation info
- Details of issuing vet
- Picture of pet
Don’t worry if you haven’t got a passport for your pet, even if you’re travelling to the EU. These countries often accept alternative documentation – such as microchip details, health records, and an import permit.
Drop off and pick up
Depending on the airport, drop-off and pick-up zones vary. These tend to be in the cargo or freight terminal areas, though.
- Drop off – Generally, drop your pet off either 90 or 120 minutes before scheduled departure. International drop-off times may differ – we can advise on this before departure. We recommend dropping off pets no earlier than 120 minutes before departure because the freight team won’t accept pets before 2 hours.
- Pick up – Pets commonly must be picked up between 10 to 90 minutes after their flight arrives. This can also vary depending on the airline and location.
A pet transport company like Dogtainers can handle drop off and pick up with our door-to-door service.
Pets on planes
Once you’re prepared to travel, with all documentation and other requirements organised, you might wonder about your pet travelling on the plane.
Typically, pets aren’t allowed to travel in the cabin on international flights – no Australian airline currently permits pets in the cabin.
Don’t worry, though. International air travel is perfectly safe for your beloved pet.
For instance, we strictly follow the protocols laid out by IATA in the Live Animals Regulations manual. These cover vital areas like crate specifications, airport and airline restrictions, and safe travelling conditions.
Where will your pet travel on the plane?
- In the cargo hold usually at the rear of the plane
- This cabin is pressurised – just like the one you fly in
- The captain sets the temperature at a comfortable 18ºC
- The area is dimly lit as well – so your pet will be comfortable
- Your pet has a separate area in the compartment, away from bags
Can two of your pets travel in the same crate?
Flying with two pets in the same carrier is possible if they’re going to the same location. You might want your pets to keep each other company – completely understandable.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) advises against pets sharing the same crate. Because some pets can be stressful travellers, causing them to act aggressively or unpredictably.
Your pets must satisfy the following conditions:
- Similar size and weight (with a maximum difference of 2 KG)
- Used to cohabitation (from the same household)
- Pets weigh under 14 KG each
- Are the same species
Domestic pet air travel
In Australia, your pets aren’t allowed to travel in the cabin with you. Service dogs are the only exception to this rule.
But recently, there has been a change in the air regarding pets travelling in the cabin with owners. Virgin Australia announced its hope to operate domestic flights with pets, limited to small cats and dogs.
Pets:
- Will be restricted to a limited number of designated rows
- Won’t be able to roam freely or sit on the owners’ laps
- Must be in a Virgin Australia-approved pet carrier
- Must fit under the seat in front of the owner
This will be an Australia-first service, is subject to regulatory approval, and is expected to launch within 12 months.
Until then, your pets must travel separately in the cargo hold. This is commonly at the plane’s rear – like on international flights.
Domestic regulations
In most instances, your pet won’t need to get health checks for domestic air travel. Australia has the same biosecurity levels across states. But pets aged 8-12 weeks or over 12 years and snub-nosed breeds like French Bulldogs will need a vet check.
Travelling to Tasmania is one exception. Dogs must get treated for hydatids 14 days before departure, a simple treatment.
To enter Tasmania with your dog, you must provide one of the following:
- A veterinary certificate (from a registered vet) detailing effective treatment within 14 days of export to Tasmania
- A Statutory Declaration from the dog owner indicating effective treatment within 14 days of export
- Evidence of effective treatment, such as the worming product packet
Although pet health checks aren’t mandatory, you may want to get a pre-travel pet health check for your peace of mind. This is often a good idea if your furry companion is older.
Pet-friendly airlines
Not all airlines in Australia and abroad are pet-friendly. Authorities put many regulations in place before an airline can transport pets.
These ensure the safety and security of pets when travelling by air. Not all airlines want to incorporate these into their processes, so they don’t transport pets.
Sometimes, people ask us about the best airlines for pet travel. Our answer is always the same: There isn’t one “best” airline for pet transportation.
We have trusted partners for international and domestic pet travel. If you’re travelling with pets, these are pet-friendly airlines.
- Rex
- Virgin
- Air Canada
- Air New Zealand
- Air Niugini
- Air Vanuatu
- Aircalin
- China Airlines
- Emirates
- Fiji Airways
- Garuda Indonesia
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Japan Airlines
- Latam
- Malaysia Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- Qantas
- Royal Brunei Airlines
- Singapore Airlines
- Solomon Airlines
- Sri Lankan Airlines
- Thai
- Vietnam Airlines
Although there is no best pet-friendly airline, there are things to consider when choosing one. Here are nine questions you might ask:
- Will you and your pet fly on the same flight?
- What are the airline’s regulations?
- How often do they have flights?
- Can your pets travel together?
- Will they fly your pet’s breed?
- How is the value for money?
- What times do they fly?
- How long is the flight?
- Is the flight direct?
Pet air travel tips
Every pet owner wants their pet’s journey to go as smoothly as possible. We’ve compiled a list of pet air travel tips for a safe and comfortable trip.
Visit the vet
Checking the overall health of your pet is crucial before pet air transport. International air travel requires it, while we recommend it for domestic travel if your pet is older.
The vet can also administer vaccinations, treat parasites, and implant a microchip if necessary.
Crate choice and crate training
Your pet must travel in an IATA-approved crate. This should suit its size and breed, offering ample space for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably during the flight.
We always help customers choose the most appropriate carrier for their pets. Because it’s not always straightforward.
Is your dog a brachycephalic breed (brachy breed)? We recommend a larger crate – one size up – to give your dog more ventilation and space to move.
Starting crate training as early as possible is best practice. Your pet can get accustomed to the carrier and view it as a safe and secure place.
Introduce your pet to the travel crate gradually, keeping interactions calm and positive. Let them explore it at their own pace, and you can put treats and toys inside for encouragement.
Socialise your pet
Pet travel can be intimidating for some pets – shy ones especially. The change in surroundings might get overwhelming and cause anxiety.
Socialising your pet is the perfect way to combat this. It builds their confidence in unfamiliar places and circumstances.
Take your dog out and about to introduce them to new things. Visit dog parks and other pet-friendly places, letting them interact with new dogs and people.
Socialising cats is harder, particularly older ones. Bringing your cat out in the travel crate once they’re comfortable with it can help. Take them on short car rides so they get familiar with travel sounds.
Don’t sedate pets
We strongly recommend not sedating pets before air travel. Pets under sedation can become:
- Dehydrated
- Disorentiated
- Travel sick easily
Sedating pets also makes it harder for authorities to assess their health on arrival. We don’t even recommend sedation for the most anxious pets.
There are other ways to help anxious pets relax. You could buy an Adaptil Collar for Dogs or add deluxe vet bedding for your pet’s domestic trip (which is complimentary for international pet travel).
Comfort items
You might want to include your pet’s favourite toy in the travel carrier for comfort. Some airlines have a strict no-toys policy, though.
They also won’t allow hard items inside the crate. This could harm your pet during turbulence.
We recommend giving your pet a comfort item like a familiar blanket or an old T-shirt – if the airline allows it. An item with your scent will make your pet feel safer and more secure.
Please note: Authorities at the destination country will destroy items like blankets travelling with your pet.
Food and water before flying
Feed your pet eight hours before the flight, no sooner. Eating too close to the flight time can cause travel sickness.
Ensure your pet is well hydrated for 48 hours before they travel. Access to water is available throughout the journey – at pet boarding, during transit stops, and in the crate while flying.
Travel day
Take your dog for a walk to expend some energy. Let them do their business and empty the tank before they leave.
Don’t let your cat outside on the day of travel – they’re experts at disappearing. Ensure they have access to the kittie litter before the journey.
We also recommend you stay calm on the day of travel. Pets are attuned to our moods and can pick up on stress.
Using a pet travel company like Dogtainers is a great way to help calm your pets. Our expert handlers will settle them down.
Road transport
Pet road transport is another option for travelling with pets. You may bring them in your car or use domestic road pet transport.
The second option is perfect if you’re moving home or have adopted a new furry friend. A pet transport company can create a tailor-made Aussie road transport plan for you.
Say you’re relocating from Brisbane to Melbourne. You have two choices for transporting your pet: air or road transport.
Sometimes, your pet chooses for you. Here are four ways how:
- Anxious flyer
- Brachycephalic breed
- Banned from flying
- Too large
1. Anxious flyer
Many pets can chill out and sleep on the flight. They like the pressurised, temperature-controlled and dimly-lit cabin, dozing off to the hum of the plane’s engine.
The ambience doesn’t do it for others. They need more human interaction when travelling, which they don’t get on the flight.
This makes some pets anxious fliers. Road transport is best for them – for you too if you like the idea of human supervision throughout the journey.
Pets travel by road in a temperature-controlled van. The expert pet handler stops every two hours to check on pets, allowing them to stretch their legs, get fresh air and do their business.
The company also updates you on the trip and lets you know how your pet’s going.
2. Brachycephalic breed
Some “brachy” or “snub-nosed” dog breeds have problems with flying. Because they’re more sensitive to air quality and temperature changes in the cabin.
This results in many airlines not flying brachy breeds. Road transport is safer, though.
Travelling by road might be better for your dog. This option can also give you more peace of mind.
Common brachy breeds are:
- Cavalier King Charles
- French Bulldog
- Pekingese
- Shih Tzu
- Boxer
- Pug
3. Banned from flying
Your dog might be on the banned fly list in Australia. Authorities consider these restricted breeds as dangerous.
Here are some commonly banned breeds:
- American Pit Bull and other Pit Bull Breeds
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
- Japanese Tosa
- Perro de Presa Canario (Presa Canario)
We can transport your dog in our custom pet transport vans if it’s on the restricted list.
4. Too large
Sometimes, your dog might be too large for air transport. Most airlines have an upper limit of between 32kg and 65kg, including the weight of the crate – although this can vary depending on the airline.
Road transport for your dog is the alternative in that case. They’ll fit in the back of the temperature-controlled van, getting frequent rest stops to stretch their legs, get fresh air and do their business.
Pet road transport is also helpful if you’re travelling Australia with a dog. You can use our road service to transport your dog for a specific part of the journey.
This is helpful if you’ve planned activities that aren’t pet-friendly. We can transport your dog and house them in a pet boarding facility until you catch up again.
Health and Safety for Your Pets

Ensuring your pet’s health and safety is paramount when travelling with them. Here’s what you need to know to keep your furry friend safe and sound throughout your journey.
Veterinary check-ups and vaccinations
Before heading on your trip, schedule a visit to your vet for a thorough check-up. You’ll need a health certificate to fly internationally, but some owners may want a health check for peace of mind if flying domestically.
Ensure you’re up-to-date with pet vaccinations, including those required for travel to your destination if flying overseas. Also, ask the vet to administer the internal or external parasite treatments they might need.
Discuss any specific health concerns or considerations with your vet. Make sure to get all necessary documentation or certificates for travel.
Preventing sickness and anxiety
Some pets may experience motion sickness or anxiety during travel. We recommend feeding your pet no sooner than eight hours before travel. They can get sick if you feed them too close to the flight.
Your pet might be an anxious traveller. Giving them sedatives might be tempting, but we strongly advise against this. Your pet can become:
- Dehydrated
- Disorentiated
- Travel sick easily
To reduce anxiety, gradually acclimate your pet to the travel crate. Take short trips in the car once acclimated to help them become accustomed to the experience.
You could also consider pet calming products. These generally use pheromones to reduce stress in your pets.
Identification and microchipping
Ensure your pet has proper identification, including a collar with tags containing your contact information. Airlines may permit you to attach a collar to the outside of the pet carrier.
Consider microchipping your pet as an added precaution – this is required for travelling internationally. Having a permanent form of identification is also a good idea in case pets become separated from you during travel.
Emergency preparedness
Prepare a travel kit for your pet containing essentials such as food, water, medications, and first aid supplies. This is particularly important if you’re travelling with your pet by car.
Research vet clinics or emergency pet care facilities along your travel route or at your destination in case of emergencies. Preparing for the worst-case scenario keeps your pet’s safety foremost in your travel plan.
You can familiarise yourself with common pet first aid procedures. Knowing how to recognise signs of distress or illness in your pet can save their lives.
Always consider your pet’s health and safety and take proactive measures to address any potential risks. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for you and your furry companion.
Preparing for Arrival at Your Destination

After all the planning and preparation, thinking about arriving at your destination is exciting. There are some things to consider when travelling with pets for a smooth arrival.
Understanding the destination country’s quarantine
Your destination country might have mandatory quarantine for your pet. For instance, Australia has strict biosecurity laws to protect the local flora and fauna from exotic pests and diseases.
Your pet must complete at least ten days of quarantine when entering Australia from most countries. This depends on the country you enter Australia from.
The stay in quarantine needs to be booked in advance. You must collect your pet from the facility in Melbourne once they complete the mandatory stay.
We can ensure full quarantine compliance, reserve your pet’s spot in the facility, and collect your pet before delivering them to your new destination.
Learn more about Pet Quarantine in Australia.
Settling into your new accommodations
On arrival, take time to acclimate your pet to their new surroundings. Allow them to explore this new environment at their own pace and closely monitor them at the beginning.
Setting up a designated area for your pet with their bedding, food, water, and familiar toys will help them feel at home in their new space.
Check for any potential hazards like toxic plants or open windows and take steps to pet-proof the area.
Exploring local pet-friendly activities
Research pet-friendly activities and attractions in your destination. Enjoying new experiences with your pet is always nice.
There are plenty of options – whether hiking trails, dog parks, or pet-friendly cafes. Exploring with your pet helps them settle in as well. Outdoor adventures allow your pet to stretch their legs, burn off energy, and experience new sights and smells.
Keep an eye on local rules and regulations regarding pets in public spaces. These vary between countries, so you might get caught out if you don’t check.
Adapting to new surroundings
Be patient with your pet as it adjusts to a new environment and routine. Changes in scenery, climate, and schedule can be overwhelming, so offer plenty of reassurance, love, and consistency during this transition period.
Stick to your pet’s regular feeding, exercise, and sleep schedule as much as possible. This maintains a sense of normalcy and minimises stress.
Monitor your pet’s behaviour and well-being closely during your stay. Always seek veterinary care if you notice any signs of illness or distress.
Choosing a Pet Transport Company to Help
Moving home domestically or internationally is stressful. There are so many moving parts, and considering pet transport can add to anxiety.
The process involves:
- Getting health checks
- Understanding regulations
- Ensuring vaccination requirements
- Selecting the best carrier
- Booking suitable flights
These are just some aspects you need to consider.
Ultimately, the safety of your pet is the overarching concern. They’re part of the family, and the pet transport must be safe.
A pet transport company like Dogtainers helps you safely transport your pet. But we aren’t the only pet transport business in the world, so here are five questions to ask when choosing the best pet transport company.
1. How experienced is the company?
Experience matters when it comes to pet transport. Seasoned companies have encountered various situations and know how to handle them effectively.
An experienced company is more likely to:
- Have established relationships with airlines
- Understand complex travel logistics
- Anticipate potential challenges
For instance, we’ve encountered everything in pet transport in the last 50+ years. Speaking from experience, we know what we’re doing.
2. Are they an IPATA member?
Membership in the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) shows credibility and professionalism in the pet transport industry. The IPATA is an international network of pet shippers committed to professional and compassionate pet relocation services. IPATA members adhere to high standards of care and ethics.
We must strictly follow the live animals regulations of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This ensures the safe transportation of your pets.
3. What services do they offer?
A reputable pet transport company should offer a comprehensive range of services to meet your specific needs and preferences. Look for services such as:
- Door-to-door pet transport
- Custom pet carrier solutions
- Personalised pet travel plans
- Manage pet boarding if needed
- Reserve quarantine stays for pets
- Documentation and permit assistance
4. Are they on top of travel regulations?
Pet travel regulations can vary widely by destination, airline, and mode of transportation. Choosing a company that stays up-to-date with the latest travel regulations and requirements is crucial.
A knowledgeable company will ensure that all necessary permits, vaccinations, and documentation are in order. This helps prevent delays or complications during travel.
An experienced company will also have their finger on the regulatory pulse. Knowing and understanding regulations ensures a smooth journey for your pet.
We get updates on all changes to country rules and regulations.
5. What do their customers say?
Customer testimonials and reviews give you valuable insights. These offer a window into service quality and customer satisfaction.
Read reviews and testimonials from previous customers. This helps you gauge their experiences with the pet transport company. Check overall satisfaction with services, communication, and care of their pets.
We’re rated 4.7 stars out of 5 – from 930 reviews on Product Review.
Travelling With Pets FAQ
Which Australian airlines are pet-friendly?
Qantas and Virgin are pet-friendly Australian airlines. They allow you to check pets in, and your pet flies in the cargo area – usually at the plane’s rear. Rex Airlines allows pets as checked baggage on some flights.
How do I take my pet overseas from Australia?
Transporting your pet overseas from Australia varies depending on the destination country. Some general considerations are:
- Microchip – Pet dogs and cats must be microchipped before travelling from Australia.
- Permit – Requirements vary depending on the country, with each one having different regulations to get an import permit.
- Health check – Some countries require a health certificate for your pet to allow entry.
- Vaccinations – You need proof of vaccinations like rabies immunisation for international travel.
- Rabies titre test – Countries require proof your pet’s rabies vaccination is working.
- Pet carrier – Your pet must travel in an approved carrier when flying.
- Quarantine – Regulations vary depending on the country, so it’s not always mandatory.
Hiring a pet transport company is the easiest way to take your pet overseas from Australia.
Do any Australian airlines allow pets in the cabin?
No, Australian airlines don’t currently allow pets in the cabin. Service dogs are the exception to this rule. Service Dogs (Guide, Hearing, and Assistance Dogs) are allowed in the cabin on Qantas, Virgin, Rex and Jetstar flights – includes service dogs in training.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority changed its rules in December 2021 to allow pets to fly in the cabin with you. In March 2024, Virgin Australia announced its hope to operate domestic flights with pets, limited to small cats and dogs.
This Australia-first service is expected to launch within a year.
How much does it cost to fly a dog domestic in Australia?
You can expect to pay at least $300 to fly a dog domestically in Australia. A lot of factors determine the cost of domestic pet transport, though.
Pet transport companies offer a range of services, like a door-to-door service. This means they collect your pet at the departure point and drop them off at the final arrival destination.
The chosen airline and available routes can affect the cost. Other factors like your pet’s size and the number of pets play a part in calculating the costs.
Conclusion
You might be holidaying domestically or relocating internationally, and leaving your pet behind is unthinkable. Travelling with your pet is the only option.
Now, you know what it takes to travel with your pet. There are a lot of steps to follow when travelling overseas, while domestic pet transport is more straightforward.
Although it takes preparation, travelling with pets is less stressful than you think. This is especially true when a pet transport company with over 50 years of experience helps you.
We’ve seen it all and know the ins and outs of pet travel. Our expert consultants can guide you and offer the best advice.
Get your quote and take your next step to travelling with pets.
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