FAQs for International Pet Travel
We’ve provided answers to some of our most popular FAQs when it comes to international pet transport– simply click on the most relevant category to your query or scroll down to read all our FAQs.
General | Travel Crates | Vaccinations & Sedations | Food & Drink | At the Airport | On the Plane | Arrival at Destination
Every pet move is unique and different. If you have specific questions about your overseas pet travel needs, please contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our International Pet Travel
General
Q: Will my pet be okay?
At Jetpets our sole focus and expertise is providing the safest and most comfortable pet travel. Our team of pet loving experts includes Pet Travel Consultants, Resident Vets and Pet Handlers, and we have been safely and comfortably transporting pets for over 30 years. Your Jetpets Pet Travel Consultant will step you through the whole process and answer any questions or concerns you have. Remember that pets are great at detecting changes in our moods, so the best thing you can do in the lead up to travel is remain calm and positive. Before you know it, you’ll be happily reunited with your fur-baby!
Q: Will my pet get a chance to stretch their legs before they fly?
Yes, if you have a dog we will ensure your pet is taken for a good walk before they fly. For many travelling pets there will be an opportunity to have a stretch, walk and cuddle at a Jetpets Transit Lounge.
Travel Crates
Q: Do I need to check that my travel crate is airline compliant?
Yes, if you are using your own travel crate you need to check it is airline compliant. If your pet is travelling in a Jetpets travel crate you can be assured it is airline compliant and sized up perfectly for the comfort and safety of your pet.
Q: Can my pet travel with personal belongings?
We recommend putting a blanket or soft toy into your pet’s travel crate to help comfort your pet, but please be aware that if your pet messes their travel crate this will be removed. For your pet’s safety, the airlines do not allow any bulky bedding or hard objects in the travel crate.
Vaccinations & Sedations
Q: Can I send my pet’s full vaccination history with them?
We do not recommend attaching original copies of your pet’s vaccination records to their travel crate.
Q: Why can’t I sedate my pet?
Sedating your pet can be harmful to them during the flight. It can lower their blood pressure and cause dehydration. Our Resident Vets recommend Adaptil collars for dogs and Feliway products for cats as an alternative way to make pets feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible during travel. A Jetpets Pet Travel Consultant can arrange this for you.
Food & Drink
Q: Will my pet be fed before they fly?
We do not recommend feeding your pet within 8 hours of their flight as it may cause travel sickness. They will receive plenty of water throughout their journey.
Q: Will my pet get water during the stop over?
Yes, your pet’s water container will be topped up during a stop over. Depending on the duration of the stop over, they may also stretch their legs and get a cuddle as well.
At the Airport
Q: Why do pets have to be at the airport 3 hours before departure?
Like humans, pets are required to check in early for their flight too. Some airlines require pets to be checked in 3 hours before departure. Your Pet Travel Consultant will advise you on the specific check in time based on your pet’s travel itinerary.
Q: Will I be told when my pet departs and arrives?
Your Jetpets Pet Travel Consultant will keep you up to date on your pet’s travel every step of the way.
Q: What airline will my pet fly with?
Your Pet Travel Consultant will take into consideration your specific requirements when identifying the best airline partner and flight option for your pet.
Q: Who loads my pet onto the plane?
After we check your pet in for their flight, the friendly airline staff will load them onto the plane.
Q: How long does it take for my pet to be ready for collection after the flight lands?
This can change depending on the airport. But generally, your pet will be ready for collection 1-2 hours after the flight lands. Alternatively, we can deliver your pet straight to your house at the other end.
On the Plane
Q: Where will my pet sit on the plane?
Your pet will travel in the pet cabin. The pet cabin is air pressured, climate controlled and dimly lit, just like the main cabin. Your pet will experience the same sounds and feelings as us, except they have a lot more leg room! Their travel crate is securely fastened to avoid movement.
Q: Does someone check on my pet during the flight?
The captain is aware that your pet is on the flight and as soon as the flight lands, your pet will be offloaded from the plane and checked on straight away.
Q: What happens if my pet goes to the toilet in the travel crate?
Your pet’s travel crate will be lined with a stay dry fleece mat. If your pet goes to the toilet before the flight takes off we can replace the mat. Should your pet urinate throughout the flight, moisture will sink to the bottom keeping the top of the mat dry and fresh, keeping your pet comfortable.
Arrival at Destination
Q: What happens when my pet arrives at its destination?
Once the plane has landed, pets are always the first to be taken off the plane and into a secured and comfortable waiting area. Each arrival airport procedure is different so your Jetpets Pet Travel Consultant will have all of this outlined in the travel itinerary that is personalised for your pet.
Q: Will my pet be delivered to my home?
Jetpets can certainly deliver your pet to their new home. Please discuss this with your Jetpets Pet Travel Consultant.