Frequently Asked Questions:

Will my pet be sedated?

No.  Sedation is considered dangerous for pets when flying as it lowers blood pressure and respiratory function.  Pets must be able to drink water during their flight and keep themselves in a comfortable position inside their travel crate. Sedation can cause disorientation in pets and that can be stressful for a dog or cat in transit. Pet Transport has found that crate training or familiarisation is the best way to ensure your pet is calm and content during their journey.

Where in the world can I send my pet?

Pretty much anywhere humans can go!  We send pets to nearly all parts of the world.  Some of our most popular destinations are throughout Australia and the Pacific, as well as in the USA, Canada, Asia, and the European Union.  Each country has differing agreements with New Zealand and the entry requirements can vary from just requiring a microchip through to full vaccination and documentation preparation.  Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have a query about a specific destination, we are happy to help! 

When pets fly internationally, are they quarantined on when they land?

There are only a few international destinations that require New Zealand pets to go into quarantine upon arrival.  In most cases, completing the pre-export requirements correctly means pets are released to their humans within 2-5 hours after arrival.

Do you fly pets around Aotearoa?

Due to high demand, we have returned our focus exclusively to international pet transport and no longer service domestic bookings within New Zealand.
 
If you would like to book your pets' flight within New Zealand, we recommend you contact Air New Zealand directly.

what sort of crates do my pets need?

​For us at Pet Transport, the Ministry for Primary Industries, and the airlines to accept a crate for your pet’s travel, it has to be IATA compliant. Broadly, this means it has to be of solid construction, with adequate fastening and ventilation and a good size for your pet.  Please call us or check out our website if you would like information about sizing your pet, or purchasing a crate.

can I book my pet on an international flight myself?

No.  A registered pet transporter, like us Pet Transport, needs to place your booking with the airline.  

can my pet travel in the cabin with me?

Aside from Seeing Eye Dogs, approved Disability Dogs, or people that book the first-class cabin for their pets, all pets must, by law, travel in a cargo hold below the passengers.  The availability of this live cargo hold is the reason that not all flights are able to accept pet bookings – sometimes there are bees or other live passengers taking up that space.  If there is a specific routing you are considering, feel free to submit an enquiry on our website, or give us a call! 

Do the pets handle travelling well?

​We rely on feedback from the pets themselves, and the photos and videos we get sent from their humans to answer that question, and all the evidence suggests that they handle it very well! We see a lot of happy pets in their crates prior to flying, and if we do see that a pet is in distress, it doesn’t go on the plane. In (rare) instances like that, we would delay the flight until we can make sure the pet is ready to fly. 
​While each creature is different, the theme seems to be that even after a long flight and in a new country, once they are back with their humans, it’s life as normal.

can my pets take their favourite toy?

Small, soft, light items that pose no safety risk during flight are fine.  Regarding blankets and bulkier toys or pet beds we are happy to advise on appropriate sizes to help make your pet's travel crate as safe and comfortable as possible.

How old does my puppy or kitten need to be to fly?

Provided they are up to date with their first vaccinations, most puppies and kittens are eligible to fly from 8 weeks old,  but the regulations for where they can travel to depends on the country.  For example, Australia only requires puppies and kittens to be older than 8 weeks, yet for most other destinations, puppies and kittens need to be at least 12 weeks old to fly by air. ​

Can You Operate Through COVID-19

Yes we can.  As an essential service we work hard with the airlines to provide you with up to date travel information with new routes as they become available.  Staff are full vaccinated and we adhere to strict health and safety protocols at all times.  Masks are required for in-person meetings and fittings.  If you have any further questions about your particular pet travel needs, please call the office on 09 256 0999

Got another question?