Relocating pets can be stressful. Pet shipping services make it easier and more affordable by taking care of everything for you. They arrange flights, get you the documents required (like vet health certificates and vaccination records), and schedule transportation and layovers.

Health

You can rest easy knowing your pet is safe and comfortable when using a pet shipping service. Rather than being in the back of your car, they will travel with other pets in a crate designed to keep them comfortable. They will also be given regular breaks and meals during their travels so the trip does not stress them out.

Another benefit of a pet transport service is that it can help you find the best flight options for your pet and can work around layovers. This is especially helpful for international relocations since each country has its flight requirements and may require your pet to go through quarantine.

They can also help you prepare your pet for the journey, including pre-travel vet visits, acclimating them to their travel crate, and even following fasting guidelines if necessary. They can also give round-the-clock updates on your pet’s progress during their travels, which can be very soothing for nervous pets.

Safety

Pets are part of the family, so relocating them long distances or to another country comes with unique challenges. A reputable pet shipping service can make the process easier and safer by handling all logistics on your behalf. They can book flights, coordinate layovers, arrange vaccinations, and reserve boarding space at quarantine facilities. They will also help you navigate international customs. They will never recommend that you use sedatives on your furry friend during transport, which can be dangerous.

They can provide cozy, safe transport in specialized carriers or crates to keep pets comfortable. They can even offer white-glove door-to-door service, picking up your pet and delivering them straight to your new home. They can also offer 24/7 monitoring, which is helpful if your dog or cat has travel anxiety. 

Time

Pets are like family; if you have one, relocating with them is daunting. Whether for a military PCS, new job, or vacation, traveling with pets involves many moving logistics — including vet checkups, vaccination requirements, documentation, quarantines, and customs. A good pet shipping company handles these travel details for you, which saves you a lot of time and stress.

Choose a pet shipping service with accreditations from organizations such as IPATA and transparent pricing. Avoid companies with “gotcha” fees, and look for ones with years of experience shipping your pet’s specific species.

Money

Whether moving to a new home, sending your furry family member to a friend or relative for a visit, or traveling abroad with them, pet shipping services can save you money by handling all travel logistics and paperwork. A reputable service will ensure your pet has proper veterinary checkups, vaccines, and rabies titer tests before the trip. They’ll also handle any quarantine requirements for your destination country.

Shipping costs vary depending on your pet’s size, species, breed, and requirements. Add-ons like door-to-door service, 24/7 monitoring, and grooming will increase prices.

Choose a pet transport company accredited with the USDA and with a good track record. Ask to talk to a representative during the initial consult and pay close attention to their demeanor. 

Jane