Relocating with your pet can be a complex process, but with careful planning and consideration, you can ensure a seamless transition for your furry companion. Here are expert tips to guide you through a stress-free pet relocation.

1. Plan Ahead

Begin pet relocation preparations well in advance. Some destinations may require several months of planning due to specific regulations, vaccination schedules, and potential quarantines. Early planning helps avoid last-minute complications and ensures all requirements are met.

2. Book Appropriate Travel Methods for Your Pet

You want your dog’s travel day to be as short as possible, and layovers can be tricky. A pet relocation expert can help ensure your dog gets on the flights they are supposed to and only on the most pet-friendly airlines. When your dog is shipped through a professional dog shipping company, we make sure that your dog is taken care of properly, whether there are delays or layovers along the way.

3. Research Destination Requirements

Each country has unique rules regarding pet entry, including banned breeds, vaccination protocols, and quarantine periods. Thorough research or consultation with pet relocation services can help you navigate these regulations effectively.

4. Microchip and Vaccinate Your Pet

Microchipping your pet is often a prerequisite for international travel. Ensure vaccinations are administered after microchipping so they are properly registered. This sequence is crucial for compliance with many countries’ entry requirements.

5. Obtain a Health Certificate

Travel can exacerbate certain symptoms in pets, so ensuring your pet is healthy for travel should be at the top of your list. You can make important decisions with the right knowledge about your pet’s health. Sometimes, you might need to postpone travel, giving your pet time to regain their health.

A health certificate from a USDA-accredited veterinarian confirms your pet is fit for travel. This document is typically mandatory and should be obtained close to your departure date, as its validity is often time-limited.

6. Acclimate Your Pet to the Travel Crate

Introduce your pet to their travel crate months before the move, and crate train them to make your dog, cat, or other animal is comfortable with their airline-approved kennel.

Encourage positive associations by allowing them to explore and spend time in the crate, gradually increasing duration. Games, short stays, and gradual increases in crate time at home will help your dog associate the crate with positive experiences and reduce stress during transit.

7. Exercise Before Travel

Engage your pet in moderate exercise a few hours before departure. A leisurely walk allows them to relieve themselves and expend energy, promoting relaxation during the journey. Avoid intense activity to prevent dehydration.

8. Manage Feeding Times

Feeding a dog that’s going to travel can be tricky, especially if the dog’s flight will be longer than three hours. You don’t want a dog with a belly full of food before traveling, since it can make your dog uncomfortable. This also avoids motion sickness for pets who struggle with it.

If your flight is shorter than three hours, you should let your pet travel on an empty stomach. We recommend feeding your pet four to six hours before travel for flights longer than this.

Also, if you already know your pup gets motion sickness, you might want to contact your veterinarian and ask about a motion sickness medication before your dog’s relocation. Several medications are out there; we’ve had great success with them and our traveling dogs.

9. Avoid Sedation

Most airlines prohibit sedating pets during flights due to health risks, such as lowered blood pressure and impaired balance. Instead, focus on natural calming techniques and consult your veterinarian for alternatives if necessary.

10. Prepare Essential Documentation

Gather all necessary documents, including vaccination records, import permits, and identification tags. Ensure your contact information is up-to-date and included on your pet’s collar and crate.

11. Arrange Ground Transportation

Getting to and from the airport with your dog, dog’s crate, and your luggage can be a bit much even for the most experienced travelers. When you hire pet relocation companies that offer ground transportation or pet taxi services, they will drive your dog and his crate to where they need to be.

11. Stay Calm and Reassuring

Pets can sense their owner’s anxiety, which may increase their own stress levels. Maintain a calm demeanor to help your pet feel secure throughout the relocation process.

By following these expert tips and considering professional pet relocation services, you can ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for your beloved pet.

Bonus Tip: Utilize Pet Relocation Services like AirPets International

Relocating a pet isn’t just about booking a flight—it’s about managing logistics, paperwork, health records, and more. Partnering with a company like AirPets International takes the pressure off your plate.

We offer full-service pet relocation services, including:

• Ground transportation across the U.S.
• International flight booking on pet-friendly airlines
• Import/export documentation and permits
• Health certificate coordination
• Personalized relocation plans tailored to your needs

With decades of experience and partnerships with every major airline, we’ll help you move your pet safely—whether you’re going across the country or around the world.

Ready to explore the AirPets difference?

Reach out today to request an estimate or ask your pet relocation questions.