International Pet Shipping

International Pet Shipping (Dogs & Cats) – Safe, Compliant, Door-to-Door Options

Moving countries is stressful. Moving with a pet can feel ten times harder. That’s why our international pet shipping team keeps the process simple, legal, and safe—so your dog or cat reaches your new home comfortably and without surprise delays.

We handle the steps that usually cause problems: pet travel documents, IATA-compliant crate sizing, flight planning, airline rules, and customs clearance. And yes, we guide you clearly from the first call to the final delivery.

What is international pet shipping?

International pet shipping is the organised process of transporting your pet from one country to another using airline-approved methods and the correct import/export rules.

It’s a planned process: documents, crate, flight booking, customs, and safe delivery

A successful move doesn’t happen “last minute.” Instead, you plan early, prepare documents, choose the right crate, book the right flight route, and follow the destination’s veterinary rules. Then, once your pet lands, customs checks the paperwork before release.

Who needs it: families relocating, expats, students, and long-term travel

You may need international pet relocation if you are:

• Relocating for work or family

• An expat moving back home

• A student studying abroad long-term

• Moving permanently (or for a long contract)

• Bringing a rescued pet to your home country

Why Choose Professional International Pet Shipping

You can do parts yourself. However, professional support reduces risk—especially with strict countries, peak travel seasons, and airline restrictions.

Reduced risk at airport check-in and customs

Airports follow strict rules. If the crate, labels, paperwork, or timing is wrong, airlines can reject travel at check-in. We help you avoid these painful last-hour issues.

Correct documents so your pet doesn’t get delayed

Most delays happen due to missing signatures, wrong vaccine dates, incorrect microchip info, or incomplete permits. We keep your pet shipping documents aligned with the destination rule set.

Support for special cases (large breeds, senior pets, snub-nosed breeds)

Some pets need extra planning:

• Large dogs / giant breeds need correct crate size and flight suitability

• Senior pets may need calmer routes and vet planning

• Snub-nosed breeds have airline limits and seasonal restrictions
  We guide you with safe options, not guesswork.

International Pet Shipping Services We Provide

We offer flexible shipping choices based on your route, budget, and destination rules.

Door-to-door pet relocation

We collect your pet (where allowed), handle pre-travel steps, manage airport processes, and support release and delivery at destination. It’s the smoothest option if you want a single team managing the full move.

Airport-to-airport pet shipping

If you prefer to manage pickup and drop-off yourself, we can organise everything from the departure airport to arrival airport. This option can reduce local transport cost.

Pet travel documents & permit support

We help you prepare and validate:

• Import/export requirements

• Airline forms

• Vet certificate checklist

• Permit steps (if required)

IATA-compliant crate supply and sizing

We supply IATA-compliant pet crates and confirm sizing based on your pet’s measurements. We also guide you on crate training, bedding, and ventilation rules.

Customs clearance and arrival assistance

At arrival, customs may review documents and release timing. We guide the steps and help reduce waiting and confusion.

Quarantine guidance (only where required)

Some destinations require quarantine or government-approved processes. We don’t scare you—we simply explain the exact steps and timeline, early.

How the International Pet Shipping Process Works

Here’s the real-world flow (simple, but strict).

Step 1: Share pet details and destination

You share:

• Pet type (dog/cat), breed, age, weight

• Microchip status

• Destination country and city

• Estimated travel date window

Step 2: Document checklist and timeline

We build a checklist based on your destination rules, including when each item must be completed.

Step 3: Vet checks, microchip and vaccinations

Most countries require:

• ISO microchip

• Rabies vaccine (and core vaccines)

• Health check near travel date
  We help you avoid the most common error: vaccinating before microchip (often invalid).

Step 4: Crate selection and crate training tips

We confirm crate size, help you choose the right model, and share crate training tips so your pet feels safer on travel day.

Step 5: Flight planning and booking

We choose routing based on:

• Airline pet policies

• Temperature rules and seasonal embargoes

• Transit limits and safe layovers

• Destination entry timing

Step 6: Airport handling and customs clearance

We assist with:

• Airport check-in timing

• Labeling and crate checks

• Cargo terminal steps (if cargo travel)

• Arrival clearance and release guidance

Step 7: Delivery, follow-up, and post-arrival tips

After arrival, we guide:

• Feeding/water routines

• Rest and adjustment

• Vet visit timing if needed
  And yes, we follow up, because moving day is not the end of the story.

Documents Required for International Pet Shipping

Document rules change by country, but these are common worldwide.

Microchip certificate (ISO compliant)

Your pet often needs an ISO 11784/11785 microchip. The microchip number must match every document exactly.

Vaccination records (rabies + core vaccines)

Rabies is usually mandatory. Core vaccines vary by country, but good records always help.

Health certificate (fit-to-fly)

A licensed vet issues a fit-to-fly health certificate within a specific time window before departure.

Import permit / export permit (if required)

Some countries require an import permit, and some departure countries require an export permit. We guide this clearly.

Rabies titer test (FAVN) for certain countries

Some regulated destinations require a rabies titer test (FAVN) plus waiting periods. This is a big timeline item—so we plan early.

Airline forms and crate compliance documents

Airlines may request:

• Shipper/consignee details

• Feeding instructions

• Crate compliance confirmation

• Live animal labels and routing notes

Quick checklist table (typical):

IATA Pet Crate Requirements (Avoid Rejection)

Airlines follow IATA Live Animals Regulations and their own rules. If your crate is wrong, they can reject your pet at check-in.

How to measure your pet for the right crate

Use simple measurements (standing position):

• A: Nose to base of tail

• B: Ground to top of head/ears (whichever is higher)

• C: Shoulder width

• D: Ground to elbow joint

Basic sizing guidance (common method):

• Crate Length: A + (½ of D)

• Crate Height: B + bedding allowance

• Crate Width: 2 × C (so your pet can turn comfortably)

Ventilation, locking, absorbent bedding rules

Most airlines expect:

• Ventilation on multiple sides

• Strong door lock / metal hardware (depending on airline)

• Absorbent bedding (no loose straw that can spill)

• Water container attached (and sometimes food container too)

• Clear “LIVE ANIMAL” labels and arrows

Common crate mistakes that cause flight rejection

Avoid these issues:

• Crate too small (pet can’t stand/turn)

• Weak plastic door or broken locking mechanism

• No absorbent bedding

• Wheels left attached (some airlines reject wheeled crates)

• Missing labels or unclear shipper/receiver contact details

• Using a crate that airline does not approve for that route

International Pet Shipping Cost (What Affects Pricing?)

Pet shipping costs vary widely. Still, you can estimate pricing once you know your route, pet size, and destination rules.

Pet size, breed, and crate size

Bigger pets need bigger crates, and that changes airline pricing and handling.

Destination rules, permits, and tests

Permits, lab tests (like FAVN), and government vet endorsements can add cost.

Flight type, season, and airline policies

Peak travel periods often reduce space availability and increase rates. Also, airline pet policies vary a lot.

Door-to-door vs airport-to-airport

Door-to-door includes local transport, handling support, and sometimes more documentation help.

Transit time and layovers

Direct routes can cost more but reduce transit stress. Multi-stop routes may be cheaper, but they add risk and time.

Sample cost range table (illustration only):

Note: These ranges depend heavily on route, crate size, airline, and regulation level.

How Long Does International Pet Shipping Take?

Typical timelines (fast routes vs regulated countries)

Some routes move quickly, while others require long lead times due to testing and approval steps.

Timeline table (general planning guide):

What can delay pet shipping (documents, titer tests, embargoes)

Common delays include:

• Incorrect vaccine dates or missing microchip proof

• Waiting periods after rabies or titer test

• Temperature embargoes (hot/cold seasons)

• Airline breed restrictions

• Limited cargo space on preferred routes

• Missing signatures or government endorsements

Airline Rules for Pet Shipping (Cargo vs Cabin vs Baggage)

When pets can fly in cabin

In-cabin travel is usually limited to small pets that fit in an airline-approved soft carrier under the seat. Many international routes restrict this, and many countries still require documentation even if the pet flies in cabin.

Checked baggage vs cargo: what’s allowed

• Checked baggage (AVIH): Pet travels in the aircraft hold on the same flight as the owner (offered only by some airlines and routes).

• Cargo (manifest cargo): Pet travels as cargo with dedicated handling processes, common for many international routes and larger pets.

We guide the correct method based on route rules, airline policy, and pet welfare.

Temperature embargo rules and breed restrictions

Airlines may stop pet travel during extreme heat or cold. Also, some breeds face extra restrictions—especially brachycephalic (snub-nosed) pets.

Special Pet Travel Cases We Handle

Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds

Snub-nosed pets can face breathing challenges in heat or stress. We plan safer routes, timing, and airline options—based on what is realistically allowed.

Large dogs and giant breeds

Large crates need special handling and aircraft space. We plan early to avoid last-minute rejection.

Senior pets and pets with anxiety

We help reduce stress with calm routing, crate training tips, and smart departure timing. Also, we always recommend you follow vet advice for medical concerns.

Multi-pet family relocations

Moving two, three, or more pets? We plan as one project: aligned documents, coordinated flights, and organised arrival support.

Safety, Welfare & Handling Standards

Your pet’s comfort matters, not only paperwork.

Stress-reduction steps before travel

• Start crate training early (short sessions daily)

• Keep routines stable (walks, feeding, sleep)

• Use familiar bedding with your scent (if allowed)

• Avoid chaotic last-minute changes

Feeding and hydration guidance

• Avoid heavy meals right before travel

• Offer water as advised by your vet

• Use airline-approved water bowls attached to the crate

• Follow route-specific timing (we guide this per booking)

When sedation is not recommended (vet advice only)

Many vets do not recommend sedation for flights because it can affect breathing and balance at altitude. Only a licensed vet should advise medication decisions.

Popular International Pet Shipping Routes

We support many global routes. These are some of the most requested:

UAE to UK / UK to UAE

Strong demand from expats and families relocating for work.

UAE to Canada / Canada to UAE

Common for long-term moves and family migration routes.

India to UAE / UAE to India

Frequent relocations and return journeys—documents and timing matter a lot.

USA to UK / UK to USA

Often requires careful planning around airline policy and documentation windows.

Internal links (example):

• /routes/uae-to-uk-pet-shipping/

• /routes/india-to-uae-pet-shipping/

• /routes/uk-to-usa-pet-relocation/

Countries We Serve (Destination Hub)

We support multiple destinations, and we guide country-specific rules clearly.

Pet shipping to Australia (strict rules)

Australia is known for strict import requirements and controlled processes. Early planning is critical.

Pet shipping to the UK (pet travel scheme guidance)

The UK process depends on your route and pet status (microchip + vaccines + correct documentation). We guide the correct steps.

Pet shipping to Canada (import steps)

Canada often has a clearer import process, but airline rules and documentation still matter.

Pet shipping to the UAE (permits and approvals)

UAE routes can require permits and specific approvals depending on the route direction and pet type.

Internal links (example):

• /destinations/australia/

• /destinations/united-kingdom/

• /destinations/canada/

• /destinations/uae/

International Pet Shipping FAQs

Can I ship my pet internationally without an agent?

Yes, sometimes. However, if your destination is strict or you have a large breed, using a professional international pet shipping team reduces mistakes and stress.

Will my pet be quarantined?

Some countries require quarantine, while many do not (if documents and tests are correct). We tell you what applies to your route.

How much does pet shipping cost internationally?

Cost depends on crate size, pet size, route, airline policy, permits, and whether you choose door-to-door service.

What documents are required?

Most routes require microchip proof, rabies vaccine certificate, health certificate, and sometimes permits and titer tests.

How do I choose the right crate?

Measure your pet correctly and use an IATA-compliant pet crate with proper ventilation, lock, and bedding. We help confirm sizing.

Is pet shipping safe for dogs and cats?

Yes—when you follow correct rules, choose safe routing, and prepare the crate and paperwork properly. Planning early makes it safer.

FAQs – International Pet Shipping

1. What is the cheapest way to ship a pet internationally?
   Airport-to-airport is often cheaper than door-to-door. Still, the “cheapest” option must stay compliant, or you may pay more later through delays.

2. Can my dog fly internationally as checked baggage?
   Some airlines allow it on certain routes. Many international moves require cargo instead, especially for larger dogs.

3. Do airlines weigh the pet with the crate?
   Yes, pricing often considers the combined weight and crate dimensions.

4. How early should I start planning international pet shipping?
   Start 4–6 weeks early for standard routes. For strict destinations or FAVN titer tests, start months earlier.

5. Do I need a rabies titer test for every country?
   No. Only certain countries require it. We confirm based on your destination rules.

6. Can I ship two pets in one crate?
   Most airlines do not allow it unless pets are very small and compatible, and even then rules vary. Separate crates are common.

7. What if my pet is afraid of the crate?
   Begin crate training early. Short daily sessions, treats, and calm routines help a lot.

8. Are snub-nosed dogs banned from flying?
   Not always “banned,” but many airlines restrict them, especially in warm seasons. Route planning matters.

9. What happens if documents are wrong at the airport?
   Airlines can refuse travel, or customs can hold your pet on arrival. That’s why document checks are critical.

10. Can my pet travel on the same flight as me?
    Sometimes, yes (in-cabin or checked baggage). However, cargo is common for international routes and larger pets.

11. What is an IATA-compliant pet crate?
    It’s a crate that meets airline safety standards for size, ventilation, strength, locking, and internal comfort.

12. Do pets need a vet check after arrival?
    It’s a good idea, especially after long travel. Many pets settle well, but a routine check can give peace of mind.