Travelling later in life can require more careful planning, particularly for pets. As dogs and cats age, their physical needs change and they may be less adaptable to long journeys or environmental shifts.
It is natural to feel concerned about senior pet travel. However, with the right preparation and professional support, many older pets travel safely each year.
At Jetpets, every journey is carefully managed by experienced Pet Travel Consultants, Pet Handlers and Veterinarians, supported by purpose-built vehicles and modern transit lounges. Safety, comfort and wellbeing remain the highest priorities at every stage.
This guide explains what to consider when travelling with an older dog or cat, how to prepare properly, and when to seek expert guidance.
When Is a Pet Considered Senior?
Whilst ‘senior’ can refer to different ages depending on the species, breed, and size of the pet, the industry standard for airline travel is typically 12 years. This is the age used by most Australian airlines and is also commonly applied by many international airlines.
Age alone does not determine whether a pet can travel safely. Many older pets remain healthy and active. However, ageing can bring changes such as reduced stamina, joint stiffness, slower recovery from stress and a higher likelihood of medical conditions.
These changes mean that travelling with a senior dog or cat in Australia, or relocating an older cat, requires additional care and planning.
Is It Safe for Senior Pets to Travel?
A common question from owners is whether it is safe for older pets to fly. In many cases, the answer is yes.
Senior pet travel can be safe when a pet is medically fit and the journey is well managed. Fitness to travel depends on overall health stability, respiratory and cardiac function, mobility and stress tolerance. A thorough veterinary assessment before travel is essential. Your veterinarian can determine whether your pet is fit to travel and identify any precautions that may be required.
Each year, many senior pets relocate domestically and internationally without complication. The key is careful planning tailored to the individual animal. Professional pet transport services coordinate closely with owners and veterinarians to ensure requirements are met before travel proceeds. This structured approach supports safer outcomes and greater peace of mind.
Key Risks of Travel for Senior Pets
Understanding the potential risks for senior pets allows them to be managed appropriately.
Stress
Older pets can be more sensitive to environmental change. Unfamiliar sounds, movement and temporary separation may cause anxiety. Calm handling and structured travel arrangements help minimise this.
Temperature sensitivity
Temperature sensitivity can also increase with age. Senior pets may find it more difficult to regulate body temperature. Planning around seasonal conditions and ensuring controlled environments during transit is important.
Pre-existing health conditions
Pre-existing health conditions are more common in older pets. Arthritis, heart disease, kidney disease or respiratory concerns do not automatically prevent travel, but they do require informed planning and veterinary oversight.
Mobility Challenges
Mobility challenges are another factor. Joint stiffness or muscle weakness can make transitions more demanding. Appropriate crate sizing and gentle handling reduce discomfort and support safety.
When moving or travelling with older pets, professional coordination becomes particularly valuable due to the multiple stages often involved.
How to Prepare a Senior Pet for Travel
Preparation is central to safe senior dog travel and relocation!
- Begin with a comprehensive veterinary health check close to your travel date. Discuss your pet’s heart and respiratory health, medication schedule, hydration needs and any mobility concerns. Follow all veterinary advice carefully.
- Selecting the correct travel crate is also essential. Your pet should be able to stand naturally, turn around comfortably and lie down without restriction. Introducing the crate gradually at home can help reduce anxiety and create familiarity before travel day.
- Maintaining routine in the lead up to departure is equally important. Keep feeding times consistent and continue gentle daily exercise where appropriate. Avoid significant environmental changes that could add unnecessary stress.
- Hydration should be managed according to veterinary guidance. Ensure your pet is comfortable and settled prior to departure.
- Finally, plan for arrival. Set up a quiet, low traffic area in your new home with familiar bedding and belongings. A calm and familiar environment supports smoother adjustment, particularly for older animals.
Why Professional Pet Transport Is Recommended for Senior Pets
Senior pets often benefit from professional oversight due to their additional needs.
Jetpets operates with a team of experienced Pet Travel Consultants, Pet Handlers and Veterinarians who ensure every journey is carefully managed. We have invested in state of the art infrastructure, including a custom built road transport fleet and modern, comfortable transit lounges. Our staff are trained in pet care and veterinary science, supporting professional handling at every stage.
This level of planning and expertise is particularly valuable for older pets. Travel arrangements are structured, monitored and carefully coordinated. For owners, this provides reassurance that safety and wellbeing are prioritised throughout the journey.
Senior pet travel is not simply about transport from one location to another. It is about managing risk, reducing stress and ensuring professional care from departure through to arrival.
Signs Your Pet May Not Be Fit to Travel
While many senior pets travel safely, there are circumstances where postponing travel may be advisable.
Pets experiencing severe breathing difficulties, unstable heart disease, recent major surgery, uncontrolled seizures or extreme mobility impairment may not be fit to travel. Significant anxiety or distress that cannot be managed safely should also be discussed with your veterinarian.
A responsible, safety first approach is essential. Veterinary clearance should always guide decision making. Where travel is not in a pet’s best interest, alternative arrangements may need to be considered.Professional providers prioritise welfare above convenience and will recommend further assessment where required.
How Jetpets Supports Senior Pets During Travel
Jetpets is recognised as one of Australia’s trusted pet travel experts, with a long-standing commitment to safe, reliable and carefully managed transport services.
Every pet travel journey is supported by experienced consultants who guide owners through documentation, scheduling and preparation. Trained handlers oversee each stage of the journey, and purpose designed vehicles and transit facilities support comfort and safety throughout.
The approach reflects our commitment to safety, expertise, care and reliability. The goal is always to provide peace of mind while ensuring pets travel in conditions that prioritise their wellbeing.
Contact Jetpets
Senior pet travel requires thoughtful preparation, veterinary guidance and experienced handling. Age alone does not prevent safe travel, but it does mean additional considerations must be carefully considered.
If you are planning to travel with a senior pet, contact the Jetpets team to help guide you through each step and ensure your pet’s safety and wellbeing remain the priority at every stage!
