Pet Transporter shipping dog internationally

When Do You Need a Pet Transporter?

Home » Information » Pet Travel by Air » When Do You Need a Pet Transporter?

For pet owners facing the challenge of relocating their furry companions, hiring a pet transporter can provide a convenient and stress-free solution. Pet transporters specialize in safely and efficiently moving pets across long distances, whether it’s for a cross-country move, international relocation, or a vacation with your beloved furry friend. And it is not as easy as it may seem to ship a live animal.

There are many reasons that pet owners need a pet transporter. A concern for the comfort and safety of their pet when traveling reflects the seriousness that responsible pet owners have for their pets. Face it, during the lifetime of a pet, it is not practical or possible to keep them in the same environment. It is certainly better to ship them when conditions permit it as opposed to putting them up for adoption in a local shelter or giving them to the pound where they may be classified as not adoptable.

Pet transporters can assist you whether your pet needs to travel by ground or air. Many airlines will not fly certain snub-nosed or aggressive breeds, and, in these cases, ground transport is the answer. It is also the preferred method of transport for pets that are young, skittish or anxious as airports can be scary places.

Reasons for Using a Pet Transporter

There are many reasons why pet owners need a pet transporter. Here are just some of them:

  • You are moving your family, including your pet, but need to arrive before your pet does.
  • You need to transport a pet to a family member or friend.
  • You have your hands full as it is and need help transporting your pet.
  • You are buying a puppy from another area.
  • You are a breeder and selling a puppy to a buyer.
  • You are rescuing a pet from a shelter.
  • Your pet cannot fly with you due to airline pet policies.
  • You are traveling to a country that requires that your pet arrive as air cargo.

What Services Does a Pet Transporter Provide?

  • Veterinary visits and assistance to your veterinarian
  • Document preparation and validation
  • Equipment provision
  • Kenneling
  • Pick up and delivery to the airport
  • Check-in
  • Customs clearance at the destination airport
  • Delivery to destination address
  • Door to Door transport

You should be able to be as involved in the process as you need and want to be. This will lower the cost of transport as well as keep you involved in the logistics of the transport.

Choosing a Reputable Pet Transporter

  1. Research: Start by researching pet transport companies online and reading reviews from past clients. Look for companies with positive feedback regarding their professionalism, reliability, and care for animals.
  2. Credentials: Verify that the pet transporter is licensed, insured, and compliant with all relevant regulations and industry standards. Accreditation from organizations such as the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) can provide added assurance of their credibility. Pet Travel Transport (our sister company) is licensed, insured, and a member of International Pet and Animal Transport Association.
  3. Services Offered: Consider the range of services offered by the pet transporter, including door-to-door transportation, custom travel arrangements, and assistance with documentation and permits for international travel.
  4. Communication: Choose a pet transporter that communicates effectively and promptly addresses any questions or concerns you may have about the transportation process.

Preparing Your Pet for Transport

  1. Crate Training: Acclimate your pet to their travel crate or carrier well in advance of the journey to help reduce anxiety and ensure their comfort during transit.
  2. Health Check: Schedule a veterinary check-up for your pet to ensure they are healthy and current on vaccinations and required treatments for travel. If you are traveling internationally, know that every country will require an original health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian shortly prior to travel.
  3. Identification: Ensure your pet is properly identified with a collar, ID tags, and a pet microchip containing up-to-date contact information. Before departure, take a picture of your pet alone, then one with you standing beside it.
  4. Groom and bathe: A clean, groomed pet is a better traveler. Have your groomer check for any flea and tick infestations.
  5. Comfort Items: Pack familiar bedding, toys, and any other comfort items to help reduce stress and provide a sense of security for your pet during transport. A t-shirt with your scent on it can provide comfort to your pet when traveling.

Coordinating Logistics with the Pet Transporter

  1. Booking: Schedule your pet’s transport with the pet transporter well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or for international relocations that may require additional planning.
  2. Documentation: Provide the pet transporter with all necessary documentation, including health certificates, vaccination records, and permits required for travel.
  3. Discuss Details: Be honest with the pet transporter about your pet’s temperament. Mention any medications or special dietary considerations that your pet may have.
  4. Travel Itinerary: Confirm the details of your pet’s travel itinerary, including pick-up and drop-off locations and transportation arrangements, and any special instructions or requests.
  5. Emergency Contact: Provide the pet transporter with emergency contact information in case they need to reach you during the journey. Know that you or your designated representative must be available while your pet is being transported.

During and After Pet Transport

  1. Follow-Up: Stay in touch with the pet transporter during the journey to receive updates on your pet’s progress and address any unexpected issues or delays.
  2. Reunion: Upon arrival, greet your pet with warmth and reassurance, and gradually reintroduce them to their new environment to help them acclimate comfortably.
  3. Feedback: Provide feedback to the pet transporter based on your experience, highlighting any areas of exceptional service or areas for improvement. Leave them a review and tell them how much you appreciated their services.

Using a pet transporter can offer peace of mind and convenience when you can’t travel with your furry companion. By carefully selecting a reputable pet transporter, preparing your pet for travel, and coordinating logistics effectively, you can ensure a safe and stress-free journey for your beloved pet, allowing them to accompany you on your adventures anywhere you need or want to go.

Have a comment about pet transporters? Post it below and be published! You can also reach out by posting to our Blog, X (Twitter), Facebook, or Email or follow our activities on Instagram and TikTok.

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *