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02 9184 0888 … reception@myvetanimalhospital.com.au

Pet Export Checklist

If you are planning to travel with your pet to another country, you need to be aware that there are several steps and regulations that need to be taken into account. Here are some useful tips that will help you to be prepared for this experience:

DO I NEED A TRAVEL AGENT?

  • Getting a travel agent is not compulsory; however, they will make your trip a lot easier. Every country has different regulations and it’s highly important to gather all the required paperwork before entering the new country. Non compliance with the documentation requested might lead to an extended quarantine time or even denial of entry to the country. A travel agent could guide you with all the complexity of this process.

WHERE WILL MY PET TRAVEL?

  • Usually pets are not allowed with you in the cabin for international flights. They usually travel in a pressurised and temperature-controlled area of the cargo hold of the aeroplane.
  • Pets travel on a special section away from the baggage area, and their crates will be secured to prevent tumbling or movement during the trip.
  • Airline staff do not have access to the cargo hold during the flight.
  • Service animals are allowed to fly in the cabin with the owner if you have the supporting documentation. They are allowed to sit on the floor in front of the owner’s seat.

AGE OF THE PET AT THE MOMENT OF TRAVELLING

  • While different airlines have different rules, the minimum travel age accepted by most of the airlines around the world is 15 weeks old for international flights.
  • There is no age limit for a pet to travel as long as they are healthy and your vet considers them fit to fly.

VACCINATIONS

  • Most countries require the pets to be vaccinated against rabies before travelling. Depending on the country, some of them might require that the vaccination has been administered at least 30 days before the date of travel.
  • Some countries will request a blood test after the rabies vaccinations to confirm that immunity has been achieved. The results for this exam might take up to 4 weeks to be available. Take this into account before organising your flight.
  • Your pet should also be up to date with the core vaccines:
    • F3 in cats
    • C3 + kennel cough (KC) in dogs
  • Apart from the rabies and core vaccines, some countries might request for other mandatory vaccinations that your pet must have before travelling

PET CARRIER

  • Crate training prior the travel → familiarise your pet with being comfortable in their pet carrier as they will spend several hours inside of them at the moment of the flight
  • In order to ensure safety and wellbeing of your pet, only crates that meet the IATA (international air transport association) guidelines will be accepted by the airlines.
  • The dimensions of the crate will vary depending on the pet. The carrier needs to be big enough to allow your pet to stand up, lay down and turn around comfortably.
  • The crate needs to be well ventilated, with ventilation holes on at least 3 of the sides to allow proper air flow.
  • The floor of the crate must be leak proof; lining the crate with puppy pads to absorb urine is also recommended.
  • Crates should be made of a strong material, such as rigid plastic, fibreglass, metal or wood. Collapsible crates are not allowed in flights.
  • Add a blanket with a familiar scent inside of the pet carrier, so it provides comfort to your pet during the trip. For safety measures, toys are not allowed inside of the crate

FOOD

  • Ensure your pet is well hydrated 48 prior the flight
  • Feed your pet a light meal about 8 hrs before flying
  • Don’t change your pet’s food before or during the trip, as sudden changes of diet might lead to gastrointestinal signs.

SPECIAL BREEDS

  • Brachycephalic breeds are at higher risk of suffering respiratory difficulties compared to other breeds and need special precautions while flying.
  • Some airlines might refuse transporting brachycephalic breeds due to the high risk of suffocation linked to high temperatures and stress. If your pet is brachycephalic, check in advance with the airline in order to avoid a last minute disappointment.
  • Some countries have banned breeds of dogs (cross or purebred) that are not allowed entry into the country. Before travelling, check if your dog is part of the list for the country you are travelling to. Frequently restricted breeds are Brazilian Mastiff, Pit Bull Terrier breeds, Presa Canario, and Argentinian Mastiff.

SEDATION

  • Sedation might cause respiratory and cardiac depression, as well as inhibit the capacity of the body to regulate its own temperature. As a result, sedation during a flight is not recommended as there are several risks involved and the pets won’t be monitored during the trip.

BEFORE THE TRIP

  • Ensure your pet is microchipped
  • Take your pet to the vet before the trip. Most countries will request for a proof of health signed by your veterinarian before entering the country. Only completely healthy pets are allowed to travel
  • If travelling to Tasmania, your pet must be treated against tapeworm disease. The treatment consists of a tapeworm tablet given within 14 days before the trip. A veterinary certificate confirming that the tablet has been administered needs to be provided.
  • If your pet is currently using medications first check with your veterinarian if they will be fit to fly. If they need medication during the trip, the airline staff will administer it during the layover or after disembarking.

We know that travelling with your pet can be an overwhelming experience. If you and your pet are planning to travel soon, please don’t hesitate to contact us, so we can help you to reach your new destination.