First Time Flying With A Pet

We know that your first time flying with a pet can be stressful and sometimes confusing. Our team of pet relocation experts share some of their advice to help you and your pet get to your destination safe and sound.

Plan ahead: Whether it’s your first time flying with a pet or the 30^th time, planning ahead can help you avoid most of the stress related to your pet’s relocation. Depending on where you and your pet are moving you will need anywhere between one and six months of planning. Local moves can be planned pretty fast, while international moves or moves to islands will usually need more planning due to rules and regulations including vaccination schedules and quarantines. As part of your planning don’t forget about ground transportation, getting to and from the airports on your itinerary with a pet can be tricky so rely on a full service pet shipping company that can help you arrange drop off and pick up too.
Research: Not all pet relocations are the same. Rules and regulations depend on where you are moving from and to. Different countries have different rules for pets, from banned breeds of dogs & exotic pets to vaccination schedules & quarantines. If it is your first time flying with a pet you’ll need to know everything about where you are going ahead of time to ensure a smooth move. If your research is only confusing you more, then give our pet relocation experts a call so we can make your first time flying with a pet a breeze.
Microchip and vaccinations: Like we said before, vaccinations needed and the schedule of vaccinations will be dictated by where your pet is flying. What is true for most destinations is that you’ll need to microchip your pet first, then vaccinate according to the recommendations of the country of origin and destination. Thisensures that the vaccinations are registered under the microchip number, therefore making them valid worldwide. Following vaccination schedules closely can help your pet avoid lengthy quarantines in many cases, so as soon as you know you are moving, check those vaccination requirements.
Travel Crate: Traveling inside a crate that is right for his or her size and breed will not only keep your pet safe, but also comfortable. Make sure you introduce your pet to crate training early on. Your pet’s crate is their sanctuary, a spot where they are safe and comfortable. For pets traveling for the first time it is even more important to get them accustomed to being inside a crate. Crates can be made from different materials and come in a variety of sizes and shapes, finding the right crate for your pet might mean the crate needs to be customized or even built to specific dimensions. Our team of pet relocation experts can help with crates too!
Health certificate: If this is your first time flying with a pet then odds are you’ve never needed a health certificate before. It is a document filled out by a USDA accredited veterinarian that states your pet is healthy enough for travel. This might sound unnecessary to most of us who take our pets in for regular check-ups and vaccinations, but it’s an important part of the process of flying with a pet.
Stay calm: Many pets begin to act out when they sense their owners are anxious. By staying calm you can prevent extra anxiety for your pet too. We know it is sometimes easier said than done, but with the help of trustworthy pet relocation experts you’ll know everything is squared away before you need to travel.