International Pet Travel Pro Tips

Pet Transport NZ International Client "Boston" the Boston Terrier Flying to Germany From Auckland Taking a Moment to Enjoy the New Zealand Sunshine Before Boarding His Flight to Europe

Pet Transport NZ are enjoying the last few busy months of international pet travel in 2019 before we close for the Xmas period.  Our team of international pet travel professionals thought they would share their top tips for moving to a new country with pets as an early Christmas present from us to you!  Now is the time to book if you want to take your cats or dogs overseas with you this summer as live animal travel is limited over the New Year period!

International Pet Travel Client "Alberto" the Ginger Cat Flying to London via Bangkok from Auckland Airport Popping His Head Outside His Custom Built IATA Compliant Crate to Explore the Pet Transport NZ Offices at Airport Oaks Preflight

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Flying overseas with cats or dogs can be simplified by preparing early and including them in your relocation plans.  Keep your pets up to date with their regular vaccinations and make sure your vet records are in order before you start contacting international pet transport providers for quotes.   Once you find a reputable, reliable provider you feel comfortable entrusting your furry family member with you will be ready to start the paperwork and preparations required for your intended country of destination.

Pet Transport NZ International Client "Arnold" the Bichon Frise Dog Flying to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from Auckland Airport Relaxing on the Floor of MPI Vets Wearing an All Blacks Jersey

When collating quotes from international pet transport providers, check they are registered with a legitimate international pet shipping association.  If in doubt, you can ring the airlines or MPI direct and ask for recommendations.  Use Google and social media to look for verified users and previous clients to enquire about their experiences.  Ask for itemised and detailed quotes.  The last thing you need is hidden costs being tacked on as you try to budget for your departure, or worse yet, on the day you leave!

Pet Transport NZ International Pet Travel Client "Little One" the Ragdoll Cat Flying to Hong Kong from Auckland Airport Licking Her Nose Inside Her IATA Compliant Travel Crate At MPI Vets

Pets are sensitive to change and instability, if you are anxious about moving they will sense this and may act accordingly - cats are notorious for this!  If your pet has a known anxious disposition, communicate this to your pet transport provider and commence crate training as soon as possible to ensure a smooth travel experience for both of you.  You may also like to consider pet accommodation in the final week that you pack up all your belongings before you fly to avoid too much disruption to their established environment.

Pet Transport NZ International Pet Travel Client "Soldier" the Border Collie Dog Flying to Hong Kong from Auckland Airport Going for Walk Before Boarding His Flight Smiling At the Camera Sitting On Grass Near PTNZ Office At Airport Oaks

Maintaining normal routines, healthy eating and exercise will help maintain the status quo during a time of change and at Pet Transport NZ this is part of our duty of care we afford to all our furry clients!  Whilst in our care preflight we will walk, water and shower your pets with affection.  A happy, calm and relaxed pet is one that enjoys the best outcomes and assimilation to their new environment upon disembarkation.

Pet Transport NZ International Pet Travel Client "Mo" the Shitzu Dog Flying to London Heathrow via LA from Auckland After Mo's Appointment at MPI, Smiling At Us Inside The Vets Room

Last tip!  Source your pet travel quotes before you book your own flights if you wish to travel together.  Not all routes and flight paths are guaranteed for every airline and every breed.  Brachycephalic cats and dogs in particular have some restrictions and some particular routes may not be practical for pets that require frequent stops.  In essence, preparation is your best friend.  If you would like to reach out to NZ's most experienced international pet transport consultants, call us on 09 256 0999 or visit this page.  If you know someone travelling overseas from New Zealand with pets soon, please share this post with them.