Travelling abroad can be an exciting but daunting task, especially when you have your pets to consider, which is why Jetpets are here to help! With our expertise as leading international pet transport providers, we’ve compiled a handy checklist below to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your pet’s trip is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.
See our international pet travel checklist below:
1. Talk to Your Vet
Before you begin booking flights, schedule a chat with your vet. They’ll give your pet a full health check to make sure they’re fit to fly. Our Resident Vets & Pet Handlers at Jetpets will be able to advise you on veterinary requirements, scheduling and booking flights with an approved airline, plus, offer tips on keeping your pet calm during the trip and help with any travel-related concerns, like motion sickness or anxiety.
2. Confirm Your Pet’s Travel Itinerary
When it comes to international pet relocations, It is important to set out a clear plan of your intended travel route. Reach out to a pet travel service as early as possible, to help guide your travel plans. Choosing the right pet transport is key to ensuring you’re well-informed of every stage of your pet’s travel journey. At Jetpets, your pet travel specialist will handle all the details of your pet’s international travel, including flights, transport, travel updates and layovers at a pet transit lounge. You can even arrange for a door-to-door service, so your pet’s journey is seamless from start to finish, making sure your pet’s trip is tailored to their comfort.
3. Plan for Medications and Health Conditions
If your pet takes any medications, make sure you’ve got enough for the trip and maybe a bit extra, just in case. It’s also a good idea to carry a copy of the prescription with you. Let your pet travel provider and the airline know about any health conditions your pet has, so they can be prepared to assist if needed during the journey. Don’t forget to follow your vet’s instructions on giving any meds on the travel day—this can make a big difference in keeping your pet comfortable.
4. Up to Date Vaccinations
Your pet’s vaccinations need to be current, especially for diseases like rabies, which are often required by other countries. Make sure you’ve got all the vaccination records handy—you’ll need to show them during travel and when you arrive at your destination. If you choose Jetpets as your pet travel provider, we’ll have all this sorted for you with our team of experienced pet travel Vets team.
5. Check Microchip Information
Microchips are a safety net for your pet when travelling internationally. Make sure your pet’s microchip is up to date with your latest contact details, including your destination address. Also, check that the microchip meets the international standards required by the country you’re travelling to.
6. Get the Right Travel Crate
Selecting the right travel crate is essential for your pet to be as comfortable as possible. With Jetpets, your Pet Travel Consultant will help you select the correct size travel crate for your pet ensuring your pet is comfortable and safe. Should you choose to get a travel crate with Jetpets, we’ll have the travel crate delivered to your home early to allow you to begin crate training well in advance.
7. Start Crate Training Early
The crate is going to be your pet’s temporary home during the trip, so it’s important they feel comfortable in it. Start crate training in the weeks leading up to your trip to get your pet used to spending time inside. Use treats and positive reinforcement to help them build a happy association with the crate. If you can, do a few trial runs by letting them stay in the crate for short periods—this will help to reduce anxiety when the travel day arrives. We recommend putting the crate in a familiar place, with your pet’s favourite bedding and toys, making this a familiar environment your pet will feel comfortable in whilst getting familiar with the crate, but make sure to follow professional advice about what to put in your pet’s travel crate on travel day.
8. Don’t Forget Return Information
If your trip is round-trip, don’t forget to research the re-entry requirements for coming back home with your pet. Jetpets can help you plan the return journey, so your pet’s trip back is just as smooth as the way there. And once you’re back, a quick visit to the vet to check on your pet’s health post-travel is always a good idea.
Get Your Pet Travel Ready Today!
Travelling internationally with your pet doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right prep and a little help from international pet travel professionals at Jetpets, you can make sure your furry friend has a safe and comfortable journey.
After all, they deserve a great trip just as much as you do! So, tick off each item on this checklist, and you’ll be all set for an amazing adventure together. Safe travels!
If you have any further questions on your next international pet travel journey, call us on 1300 452 115 or get in touch with our team today.
