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Flying with Older Cats: What to Know Before You Book

Senior cats can and do travel safely by air. Age alone is not a disqualifier. But an older cat requires a different level of preparation than a young, healthy one and the decisions you make before booking can meaningfully affect how the journey goes. Here is a practical guide to thinking through the move with your senior cat.

Start with Your Vet, Not the Airline

The single most important step for any senior cat travel plan is a thorough veterinary exam before anything else is scheduled. Not the health certificate exam that happens close to departure: a separate, earlier conversation about whether your cat is a good candidate for this specific journey.

Ask your vet for a geriatric evaluation. This goes beyond the standard wellness check and looks specifically at cardiac function, kidney health, respiratory capacity, joint condition, and any signs of cognitive changes. These are the systems most likely to be stressed by travel, and they are also the ones most likely to have changed since your cat's last annual exam. Cats are skilled at masking discomfort, which means problems can go undetected until the added stress of a flight surfaces them.

Conditions that warrant an honest conversation with your vet before committing to air travel include heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, significant arthritis, and any chronic respiratory condition. This does not mean travel is off the table, many cats with managed conditions travel successfully, but it does mean the decision should be made with full information rather than optimism.

There are cases where a vet will advise against flying. If that happens, take it seriously. For a permanent international move, the alternatives worth exploring include delaying travel to allow a health issue to stabilize, or in rare cases, making arrangements for your cat to follow later or remain behind temporarily.

No Sedation

This comes up with every senior cat move, and the answer is consistent: sedation before air travel is not recommended by IATA, the AVMA, or most experienced transport professionals. Sedatives suppress respiratory and cardiovascular function — the exact systems already under more strain in an older cat. At altitude, those effects are amplified. A sedated cat also cannot brace itself when the crate moves, increasing injury risk. If your cat has significant anxiety, discuss non-sedating anxiety management options with your vet well before travel day. There are safer approaches worth exploring.

Crate Training Is More Important, Not Less

An older cat that has never been comfortable in a crate is a cat entering one of the most stressful days of its life completely unprepared. Start crate training early, ideally several weeks before travel. The goal is for the crate to feel like a familiar, safe space rather than a threat.

For cargo travel, the crate must meet IATA Live Animal Regulations: hard sided, ventilated on at least three sides, large enough for your cat to stand, turn around, and lie down without touching the walls. For senior cats with arthritis or stiffness, err toward the larger end of the acceptable size range. Familiar bedding with your cat's scent can help with comfort during the journey. See our crate preparation guide and crate training guide for specifics.

Routing Decisions Matter More for Senior Cats

A direct flight is always preferable for any cat. For a senior cat, it is especially important. Every connection, aircraft change, and additional handling event adds stress and duration. When planning a senior cat's move, routing is not just a convenience consideration, it is a welfare one.

Where a direct routing does not exist, the goal is the fewest stops, the shortest total travel time, and connections at airports with appropriate live animal facilities. Avoid peak travel periods and extreme weather seasons where possible. Many airlines impose temperature restrictions on live animal transport during summer and winter months, these restrictions exist for good reason, and they apply with more force to older animals whose temperature regulation is less robust.

Cabin vs. Cargo for Senior Cats

If your cat is small enough to qualify for cabin travel and the route and airline allow it, cabin is worth considering seriously for a senior cat. A cabin journey means your cat stays in a climate-controlled environment, can hear familiar voices, and can be monitored throughout the flight. The tradeoff is that cabin travel is not available on all international routes, and the carrier must fit under the seat, which limits size.

For larger cats or routes that do not permit cabin pets, cargo on a pet-safe airline with a dedicated live animal program is the appropriate option. The cargo hold is pressurized and temperature controlled, and reputable airlines handle senior pets the same way they handle all pets: last on, first off, climate controlled ground transport, and individual tracking.

Medication Management

If your senior cat takes regular medication, travel day requires careful planning. Confirm with your vet how to handle dosing relative to the flight schedule, whether to give medication before the journey, delay it, or adjust the timing. Make sure you have enough medication to cover the full travel period plus several days of buffer on arrival. Do not pack medication in the crate where it is inaccessible; keep it with your travel documents where it can be accessed if needed.

After Arrival

Senior cats often take longer to settle after a move than younger animals. Expect some disruption to eating, sleeping, and behavior in the first days after arrival. Provide a quiet space, familiar bedding, and consistent routine. Schedule a vet visit in your destination country within the first week — both to establish a relationship with a local vet and to confirm your cat came through the journey in good shape.

If you want to talk through the specifics of your senior cat's move, our team is here to help.

How Much Does Pet Transport Cost? A Guide to PetRelocation Pricing

Every pet move has two components: our service fee and the direct third party costs that come from the airline, documentation, customs clearance, and other logistics. Here is how both work and what to expect when you receive a quote.

Our Service Fee

Our Complete Support service fee ranges from $1,995 to $3,500 USD depending on the destination, plus $500 per additional pet. This covers a dedicated team managing every stage of your pet's move from preparation through arrival. Here is what is included across all four stages.

Stage 1: Pet Preparation

• Point of contact available to answer questions and concerns
• Provide export and import requirements for your specific route
• Preparation guidance and a customized move plan for your pet
• Review current needs for travel crate and supplies
• Ensure proper crate training and acclimation is completed
• Review vaccination records

Stage 2: Manage Travel Requirements

• Create your vaccination timeline based on collected records
• Manage any corrections, reformatting, or editing needed to records
• Prepare government paperwork for USDA endorsement
• Provide a pre-populated health certificate example
• Obtain export and import permits if needed
• Determine your pet's logistical plan with third party costs confirmed at this stage

Stage 3: Relocation Logistics

• Confirm logistical plan for your pet's relocation
• Vet guidance for the international health certificate appointment
• Arrange, coordinate, and pay for USDA endorsements
• Arrange, coordinate, and manage any hired third party service providers
• Arrange, coordinate, and manage manifest cargo flight booking
• Provide final travel itinerary including tracking links and important contacts
• Contingency planning and updating of logistical plan as needed

Stage 4: Relocation Day

• Guidance prior to your pet's travel day
• Manage logistical plan and service partner communication
• Manage service partners at origin and departure airport
• Manage airline check in services and customs clearance
• Airline and airway bill tracking links for your pet's journey
• Manage service partners at arrival airport and final destination
• Provide status updates and remain accessible for any issues that arise
• Resources on what to expect when your pet arrives

Direct Costs (Third Party Costs)

Direct costs are paid to third parties and vary based on pet size, origin location, proximity to airport hubs, breed, timeframe, and boarding requirements. The estimates below are ranges to give you a general sense of what to expect. Your quote will reflect the specifics of your move.

When moving multiple pets, costs will increase due to additional airfare, government fees, and transit services. However, the total cost will not be doubled.

Ready to Get a Quote?

Every move is different. The best way to get an accurate number is to talk through the specifics of your route, your pet, and your timeline. Contact our team and we will put together a quote based on your actual move.

Planning to ship a pet by air means taking the time to understand the travel procedures as well as the costs.

How to Ship a Pet Safely

Here’s a look at the details involved with safely shipping a pet by air:

• Start planning early (at least several weeks in advance) to learn about country import rules, vaccine requirements, airline procedures and anything else that will affect your pet’s travels.

• Measure your pet, choose an airline-approved travel crate, and start crate-training right away. If your pet is not used to spending time in a travel crate, the best thing you can do is work to help them feel safe and comfortable in the kennel that will take them to their new home.

• Book your pet’s flight on a pet friendly airline. Some airlines are more attentive to pets’ needs and have established pet policies in place, so find out what your options are and make an educated choice.

• Remember that professional assistance is available if you find yourself short on time or overly stressed by the process!

How much does it cost to ship a pet by air?

No two pet moves are exactly the same, which means it can be difficult to offer a precise and accurate quote without knowing the details of your particular relocation. That being said, you can expect to encounter a few standard expenses.

Here are a few of the components of a typical pet move:

• The travel crate
• The airfare
• Transportation to and from the airport
• Pre-move vet visits
• International health documents and import permits
• Government endorsements
• Customs fees
• Quarantine fees

Know that the costs of each of the above items will vary from one move to the next depending on a variety of factors. For example:

Your Pet’s Size

The price of your pet’s airline ticket is essentially based on their size. The larger and taller your pet is, the more space they require in cargo and the more their airfare will cost.

Origin and Destination

Generally the closer you are to a major airport (for both your origin and destination), the less expensive the trip will be. If you’re starting and ending in smaller towns that require a bit of driving on either end or if the trip requires multiple flights, the overall costs will be higher.

Import Permits

If you’re moving internationally, your new home country might require obtaining formal permission from the government in the form of an import permit. These permits range in cost depending on where you're going.

Government Endorsements for Health Certificates

It’s often necessary to obtain official health paperwork from your veterinarian, and in many cases these documents must be certified by the relevant government body, for example the USDA if you’re in the United States.

Airport Check-In

It can often take a few hours to complete the check-in process, which requires the specialized assistance of your agent to take care of your pet during this time and make sure all paperwork is in order.

Customs Clearance

When your pet lands, in many cases entry procedures must be negotiated by a customs agent and there may be tariffs, customs fees or taxes to pay at this time.

Ready to find out more about how to ship your pet safely? Learn more about how our services work.

International Cat Transport Service: Your Trusted Partner for Moving Cats Abroad

Moving your cat internationally can be a daunting experience. With many details to manage, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's where our cat transport service comes in—we're here to help you navigate the complexities and ensure a safe, smooth journey for your beloved feline friend.

In this guide, we'll share key insights about the international cat transport process and how our expert team at PetRelocation can make the experience stress-free for you and your cat.

Understanding Country Import Requirements

• Each country has its own set of import requirements for cats.
• To ensure a seamless relocation, it's essential to research and complies with the rules specific to your destination. Find your country's import rules here.

Ensuring Your Cat’s Vaccination Status is Up to date

• Vaccinations play a crucial role in international cat travel.
• At a minimum, your cat will need an updated rabies vaccine. Depending on your destination, additional vaccines may be required.
• Consult your veterinarian to verify your cat's vaccination status and plan accordingly.

Planning Your Timeline: The Importance of Flexibility

• Shipping a cat overseas typically requires one to three months of planning. However, if you're relocating to a rabies-free country like Australia or New Zealand, you may need at least six months of preparation.
• Determine your move date early and build a flexible timeline for your cat's travel arrangements.

Microchipping Your Cat for Safety

• Choosing an airline-approved travel crate of the right size is crucial for your cat's comfort and safety.
• Additionally, acclimating your cat to the crate well in advance minimizes stress during travel. Learn more about selecting and preparing the right travel crate.

Microchip

While microchipping may not always be required, we highly recommend it for your cat's safety and identification. Review the import requirements for your destination and microchip your cat either way.

How PetRelocation Makes International Cat Transport Easier

For first-time international cat owners, navigating the rules and processes can be time-consuming and overwhelming. By partnering with PetRelocation, you'll have a team of professionals who specialize in safe pet travel logistics. We handle every detail, giving you peace of mind and more time to focus on other aspects of your move.

Learn more about how PetRelocation can help.

Shipping a Cat Across the Country: What to Know Before You Book

Moving a cat cross-country by air is straightforward for most cats, but a few decisions early in the process determine whether it goes smoothly. Here is what you need to think through before you book transport.

Cabin or Cargo: Which Applies to Your Cat?

Most domestic carriers allow small cats in the cabin as carry-on, provided the cat plus carrier fits under the seat and stays within the airline's combined weight limit. Carriers such as Alaska, American, Delta, and United each allow cabin pets on most domestic routes, but eligibility varies by route, aircraft type, and the number of pets already booked on that flight. Confirm directly with the airline before purchasing your ticket, and do not assume availability.

If your cat is too large for cabin travel, or if you are shipping without traveling alongside your cat, cargo is the alternative. For most healthy cats, cargo is safe when handled by an airline with proper live animal procedures. Brachycephalic cats (Persians, Himalayans, Exotic Shorthairs) face more restrictions due to their respiratory anatomy, and some carriers will not accept them in cargo at all. Confirm your cat's breed eligibility before booking.

For more on how the cabin versus cargo decision works, see our guide to cat air travel.

Health Certificate Requirements

Most airlines require a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian issued within 10 days of travel. This is a standard document confirming your cat is healthy and fit to fly. Your vet will examine your cat and complete the certificate at the appointment.

Even if your airline does not require one, it is worth getting. If your cat is flagged for any reason at check-in or cargo drop-off, a clean health certificate removes one potential obstacle immediately.

Do Not Sedate Your Cat for Travel

Do not sedate your cat before a flight. Sedation affects balance and thermoregulation, and both become more unpredictable at altitude. Most airlines will refuse to accept a sedated cat, and if something goes wrong mid flight, sedation complicates the situation. If your cat is highly anxious, talk to your vet about non sedating options such as pheromone sprays or a calming supplement, and get clearance before using anything on travel day.

Crate Preparation

Your cat's crate needs to meet IATA Live Animal Regulations standards whether they travel in cabin or cargo. For cabin travel, the carrier needs to fit under the seat in front of you. For cargo, the crate must be hard-sided, ventilated on at least three sides, and large enough for your cat to stand, turn, and lie down without touching the walls.

The most important thing you can do before travel day is get your cat comfortable with the crate well in advance. A cat that treats the crate as a familiar space handles the noise, movement, and confinement of a flight significantly better than one encountering it for the first time at the airport.

For sizing guidance, a walkthrough video, and gear recommendations, see our pet travel crate guide and crate training tips. Most of the guidance there applies to cats as well as dogs.

Ground Transport: A Real Alternative for the Right Cat

Air travel is not the only option. For moves where timing is flexible, or for cats that are poor candidates for flying due to anxiety, health conditions, or breed restrictions, ground transport is worth considering. There are no altitude variables, no cargo hold, and no airline eligibility rules to navigate. The tradeoff is time: a cross-country ground move takes several days rather than a few hours.

PetRelocation offers ground transport for domestic moves. If you want to explore whether it makes sense for your cat's specific situation, talk to our team and we can walk through the options.

State Specific Rules to Check

Most domestic destinations have no special entry requirements for cats. Hawaii is the main exception. It has strict pet import rules, including a quarantine program, that apply even to moves from the continental US. Treat a Hawaii move as you would an international relocation in terms of lead time and paperwork.

A few other states have specific requirements around health certificates or interstate transport. Check your destination state's department of agriculture website for current requirements before travel.

Have Questions About Your Specific Move?

If you want a second set of eyes on logistics before booking, talk to our team. We can walk through your route, your cat's situation, and what the airline or transport option is likely to require.

Interested in Joining Our Team?

PetRelocation is always seeking top talent for potential job openings within the company. As a leading provider of pet transportation services worldwide, we look for dedicated, enthusiastic candidates and offer competitive salaries and benefits.

Ideal candidates don’t need a particular work history or educational track, but they should be creative problem solvers with fresh ideas. If you enjoy contributing beyond your job description and working in an ever-changing and constantly growing atmosphere, you'll fit in here.

PetRelocation is guided by our core values of Teamwork, Integrity, Innovation, Wisdom, and Commitment. Read more about our core values and our team.

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Whether you plan on moving abroad or domestically in the US, you probably wonder how much you should budget for your cat's part of the move. It's important to keep in mind that there are many pieces to moving a cat that determines the costs.

Even if you choose not to hire a professional service to organize a safe move plan for your cat, the individual expenses can add up to a hefty price tag. To help give you a better idea of what to expect with the costs of your cat's move, we've put together some items to remember when budgeting for your travels. 

Attention: The below estimates only provide a general idea of how much it costs to ship a cat without hiring a service provider to help. Involving a service provider or adding various conditions to your move will vary prices. Contact a PetRelocation Consultant here to determine what your cat's move will cost with our services.

Travel Crate
Veterinary Services 
Airline Tickets and Fees
Ground Transportation and Pet Taxis 
Government Endorsements 
Import Permits
Custom Clearance 
Quarantine
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

Expenses for Domestic and International Cat Shipping

Travel Crate

Is your pet traveling in-cabin or in the cargo hold? Either way, you must purchase a kennel that meets the airlines' requirements. We have some tips and tricks for finding the right kennel for your cat for cargo travel on this page.

Research the costs of travel crates beforehand, and don't forget to purchase two water bowls to attach to the door!

Example Estimate: A medium Kennel, what most airlines consider to be the best size for cats traveling in cargo, can cost anywhere between $50 USD and $200 USD.

Finley moved to Australia with our assistance. 

 

Vet Visits

The amount you'll need to spend at the veterinarian depends significantly on where you travel. If you are flying across the country, a simple health check and general vaccinations will be all you need. However, some destinations will require blood tests, like a Titer test, a veterinarian must perform that with USDA accreditation. Titer tests and other possibly required blood work can cost hundreds of dollars. Read the pet import requirements for your destination and discuss the process, including the related costs, with your vet.

Example Estimate: Vet costs will vary greatly. We've seen a simple health certificate for domestic travel range from $75 to $200. However, the more complicated the import requirements and the more pets you have, expect the costs to rise. We have seen international health certificates and required vaccinations come up to $1,200 for one pet for destinations like Singapore. 

Airline Ticket and Fees

The majority of your cat's move budget will fall under airfare costs. Because pets require extra care and attention throughout their journey, airlines' rates for live animals are often more expensive than regular passenger ticket prices. For cargo specifically, most airlines base the ticket pricing for pets on the volume of the travel crate and/or the pet's weight with the travel crate.

Additionally, you must consider how the costs will be affected if your cat's routing requires a layover. Layovers for pets that last more than a few hours can add additional fees, which ensure they are well looked after at an animal lounge until they are put on the next flight. While you may be able to jump on a discount flight to your destination without worrying about routing or stops, pets have to be carefully routed to ensure they're only flying in and out of airports that have pet-friendly airlines.

Lastly, it is important to note that some airlines will not allow you to book directly with them to fly your cat internationally to some countries. Instead, you'll be required to hire a pet-shipping company with an airline account. This is because they want assurance that the import procedures and paperwork were completed correctly to avoid penalties or fees.

Example Estimate: The cost of flying your cat as manifest cargo will depend greatly on the destination. The cost of flying one small cat domestically as manifest cargo will likely range between $275 to $300. However, the further the destination, the more the rate will increase. For example, flying a typical house cat to Australia may be closer to $1,000. 

Other Transport Services

Ground Transportation 

If you're moving with your pet within the continental United States, ground transportation may need to be an option you consider. Due to COVID-19, there are not as many airlines accepting pets as there previously were. 

Example Estimate: The cost of ground transportation when needed will vary based on the length of the journey.  PetRelocation's ground transportation rates start at $2200 - $2400 for a 10-hour drive and increase to around $6000 - $6400 for a cross-country journey.

Pet Taxi 

Considering that your cat's travels may not align with your travel plans, looking into hiring services to transport your cat to and from the airport may be a good idea. Hiring a professional pet taxi or driver with a climate-controlled vehicle may not be as inexpensive as you consider the time spent on the drive, the distances traveled, fuel costs and traffic.

Also, if you plan on having someone check in your cat at the airport, it may take a few hours to ensure that all of the paperwork is in order and that your cat is weighed and prepped for departure.

Example Estimate: Animal transportation costs vary based on the city, distance from the airport, number of pets, and time of day the travel takes place. The transport of one cat in a major US city (like New York) during regular business hours to an airport within 10 miles of your home may cost you up to $275 USD.

Additional International Expenses

Government Approvals or Endorsements

Depending on where you are moving, you may need to take your cat's veterinary paperwork to get government approval or endorsement before travel. Some countries even require multiple endorsements, such as Consular and USDA.

Again, knowing the rules for importing a cat to your destination is important.

Example Estimate: USDA endorsement fees can be found on their website here . If your cat does not require blood tests, your endorsement fee may be as low as $38. However, if your destination country requires blood tests, the cost will be raised to $121, along with additional fees for each pet. Keep in mind that this does not include the time spent to book and attend an in-person appointment or the cost of mailing in paperwork to be endorsed.

Layla moved to the UK with our help

 

Import Permits

Some countries will only allow pets to enter with an import permit. As you can imagine, getting formal approval from the government to bring your pet overseas can often come at quite a price.

If your destination requires an import permit, try looking for these fees on that country's government website.

Example Estimate: The fees for obtaining an import permit for a pet going to Australia can be found on the DAFF website here. For just one cat, the import permit fees will cost $480 AUD.

Customs Clearance

Once your cat arrives, clearance steps need to be taken. These can include brokers, taxes, tariffs, and other country-specific fees that need to be paid for your cat to be released to you.

Most airlines will gladly share any of these customs fees with you when you book your cat's flight. If that's not the case, check your destination country's government website to see if any customs fees are indicated there.

Example Estimate: New Zealand’s governing body over pet imports, MPI, lists their border clearance charges on their website here. Depending on the country your cat is traveling from, this fee can range anywhere between $28.19 NZD (fixed) to $186.30 NZD (hourly).

Quarantine

If you're moving to a country requiring a quarantine period, like New Zealand, Singapore, or Malaysia, you must consider the fees required to keep your pet at the quarantine facility. Remember that these facilities offer more than just accommodations for your pet. They provide food, outdoor time or walks, and medical care if needed.

Example Estimate: The quarantine fees for pets moving to Singapore can be found on the AVA website here. In short, it will cost at least $242 SGD (roughly $200 USD) for a cat to stay in quarantine for 10 days (the typical minimum period for pets).

DIY vs. Hiring Professionals

While some people choose to handle their pet moves independently, many owners eventually decide to have a service organize it all. Managing the costs and logistics of a pet move can be complicated and stressful, so hiring an all-in-one service relieves most. Hiring a pet shipping professional to arrange your pet's move is more expensive, but since the pet pros will be managing your cat's move, you have one less thing to worry about! 

Don't just take our word for it! Here is some insight from other pet owners who are happy they sought PetRelocation's assistance with their cat's travels:

"The first time I was trying to figure out how to move Charlie and Chloe by myself, I found you, and everything fell into place so seamlessly." Read More

"We made the decision to use a pet relocation agency very late in our travel planning process due to misinformation from the airline. With 10 days to move our cat, Cosmo, Jon, and Julia were amazing!" Read More

"Moving countries is no easy feat, let alone if you have other precious goods to relocate. But after working with PetRelocation, and specifically Maegan and Linda, I couldn't have been more impressed nor comforted with the entire process. "Read More

"We contacted PetRelo in February, and they guided us through the process. Our biggest concern is the safety of our pets, and later we realized the pets had a much smoother flight than we did!" Read More

Ready to start planning your cat's move? Contact us to discuss your safe pet move options.

No matter where you and your pet(s) are coming from or moving to, as international pet movers we’ve seen it all before! 

International pet shipping can feel overwhelming at first glance. Every country has different requirements for pet transport depending on where you’re going, where you’re coming from, and, of course, your type of pet. Not to mention that not all international pet relocation services are created equal.

Needless to say, there are many moving parts when it comes to moving pets overseas or across borders. But rest assured you’ve come to the right place!

If you want to know how to ship pets internationally, the first step is understanding the requirements of your destination. Simply select your destination country from the list below to learn all about their pet importation requirements.

If you don’t see your destination on the list, it doesn’t mean we can’t make your move happen! 

Our international pet transport service is happy to work with you to ensure your pet arrives safe and sound to your new home.

Please note: The information on these country pages is geared towards moving dogs and cats from the United States. Additional documentation and vet work may be required if you’re starting your journey in another country and/or have a different type of pet.

For pet relocation services internationally, you’ll need to comply with the official requirements for the country of import (listed below) as well as the country of export. Just starting to think about all of this? Read more about how to ship pets overseas and view our list of general international pet travel requirements.

Learn more about how to send a pet to another country based on your destination below.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

A

• Argentina
• Australia
• Austria

B

• Bahrain
• Bangladesh
• Belgium
• Brazil
• Brunei

C

• Canada
• Chile
• China
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Croatia (see Europe)
• Cyprus (see Europe)
• Czech Republic

D

• Denmark
• Dominican Republic

E

• Ecuador
• Egypt
• Estonia
• Europe (EU)

F

• Fiji
• Finland
• France

G

• Germany
• Greece
• Guam

H

• Hong Kong
• Hungary

I

• Iceland
• India
• Indonesia
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy

J

• Japan

K

• Kuwait

L

• Latvia
• Lithuania (see Europe)
• Luxembourg (see Europe)

M

• Malaysia
• Mexico

N

• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Norway

P

• Pakistan
• Peru
• Philippines
• Poland
• Portugal
• Puerto Rico

Q

• Qatar

R

• Romania
• Russia

S

• Saudi Arabia
• Singapore
• Slovakia (see Europe)
• Slovenia (see Europe)
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sri Lanka
• Sweden
• Switzerland

T

• Taiwan
• Thailand
• Turkey

U

• Ukraine
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

V

• Vietnam

International Pet Shipping FAQs

Have more questions about how pet transport internationally works? Read our FAQs, or get in touch with an experienced member of our international pet relocation services team to learn more.

Can I ship my dog to another country?

Of course! International dog shipping is more common than you may think. Whether you are taking an extended holiday, adopting a dog overseas, or are moving to another country you are able to take your furry friend with you.

Exactly how to send a dog to another country does vary by location. Many times, you will need to fly your pet in addition to coordinating land travel.

Can I ship my cat to another country?

Yes! We can’t forget about our feline friends. Pet relocation internationally also extends to cats. Like dogs, cats will also require health certificates, rabies vaccinations, and more for international travel.

Pet owners can learn more about the requirements for transporting a cat internationally depending on their destination.

Why We're Here

At PetRelocation, we know that pets are cherished family members, and their travel experience matters as much as yours. Established in 2004, we have guided thousands of families through the intricate pet relocation process, from initial planning to heartwarming reunions in their new homes.

With a deep understanding of pet transport, we strive to deliver the unparalleled service you and your pet deserve. As proud members of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA), we're on a bold mission to reimagine how pets move around the world.

What We Do 

Comprehensive Pet Relocation Services. We simplify domestic and international pet travel by navigating complex regulations, handling paperwork, and facilitating travel logistics. As a full-service pet travel agency, we oversee the entire pet relocation process to ensure safety, comfort, and peace of mind. Our commitment to quality means that every pet and family receives the best possible relocation experience.

Who We Are

Passionate Pet-Loving Professionals. When you choose PetRelocation, you'll be paired with a dedicated relocation coordinator who will guide you from start to finish. Our team of pet-loving experts shares a profound commitment to animals, and their expertise and regional knowledge make all the difference.. Meet our team of pet-loving experts:

Our Team

What Sets Us Apart

Deep Experience

We've seen it all in the 19+ years we’ve been in business. Each year, we move thousands of pets to more than 150 countries. We keep up with the ever-changing import rules and airline regulations, so you don’t have to. And if there’s something we don’t know, we know where to look to figure it out. 

Quality Over Quantity

We want every pet and family to have the best possible relocation experience. It’s why we ring a giant chime in the office every time a pet and its people are reunited! And it’s why we limit the number of monthly moves we manage. 

Full-Service Support

From ensuring proper veterinary requirements are met to completing import applications and determining flight routing, we manage every step and update you along the way. Our prices reflect the high level of care and service we provide.  

A Top-Notch Team

Our employees truly care about animals. We have pets in the office. We volunteer at rescues. We donate to pet-related causes. And our teams are destination-specific, so you benefit from a focused team with regional knowledge.

A Trusted Network

PetRelocation is a high-touch business that requires trained and certified people to move pets long distances. We’ve built personal relationships with trusted vendor partners worldwide and ensure that the people we hire to help move your pets meet standards that foster safe pet transport. Some of our clients’ highest praises reference our partners worldwide, who are essential to making these journeys possible. 

A Lot of Love  

We build strong relationships with our clients. Some still send us pictures of their pets long after they’ve moved. We always communicate clearly and honestly because no move is guaranteed to go completely according to plan. We’ll keep you updated and informed through each step of the process. 

Looking for full-service support with your pet's move? Review our contact information below to get in touch with the right person on our team!

• Already working with a PetRelocation consultant? Please contact them directly.
• Phone: 1.512.362.6100.
• Email: [email protected] 
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When planning to move your dog across the country or especially overseas, it's hard not to constantly think about how much you should budget. Many elements go into dog travel, from vet visits to customs clearance; it might be more than expected.

Even if you choose not to hire a professional service to coordinate a safe move plan for your dog's travels, the items can add up to a hefty price tag. To help give you a better idea of what to expect with the costs of your dog's move, we've compiled a list of example expenses to consider when budgeting for your travels.

Read on to learn how much it costs to fly a dog. While some costs, like airfare, may be a no-brainer, other expenses, like vet visits and import permits, might be less familiar to you.

Attention: The below estimates only provide a general idea of how much it costs to ship a dog without hiring a service provider to help. Involving a service provider or adding various conditions to your move will make the prices vary. Contact a PetRelocation Consultant here to find out the specifics of how much it is for a dog to fly with our services.

Table of Contents

Dog transport service costs are complex. We break down how much it costs to fly a dog when you move by different expenses.

Travel Crate
Vet Visit
Airline Ticket  
Ground Transportation and Pet Taxis 
Government Endorsements 
Import Permits
Custom Clearance 
Quarantine
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

Dog Transport Service Costs: Must Haves

Whether your dog is taking a domestic flight or you're taking them on your international travels, there are a few upfront costs to consider. Here, we break down some of the highest costs of transporting your dog.

Travel Crate

Is your pet traveling in-cabin or in the cargo hold? Either way, you must purchase a kennel that meets the airlines' requirements. We have some tips and tricks for finding the right kennel and size for your dog for cargo travel on this page.

Research the costs of travel crates beforehand, and don't forget to purchase two water bowls to attach to the door! No matter how far you're traveling with your dog, having a suitable pet carrier is essential for their safety, comfort, and peace of mind.

Example Estimate: A Kennel for a dog can cost anywhere between $50 USD and $400 USD, depending on your dog’s size. You might even need to have a custom crate made if your dog is considered a large breed. If your dog needs a custom crate built, the costs will start at about $1,000. 

Freya and Odin required custom crates.

Vet Visits

From general vaccinations to blood tests to health checks, your dog's move will require at least one vet visit. You might even have to ensure your dog sees a government-approved or accredited veterinarian if you are moving internationally!

Read the pet import requirements for your destination and discuss the process, including the related costs, with your vet. Vet visits are often overlooked when calculating how much it costs to fly a dog, but many airlines and foreign countries require them.

Example Estimate: A simple domestic health certificate alone can vary greatly between vets — we’ve seen prices range from $75 USD up to $250 USD before. Talk with your vet and try to schedule multiple procedures in the same visit, if possible, to bring the costs down.

Airline Ticket and Fees

Of course, the most significant expense for air travel with your pet will be the cost of airfare. Because pets require extra care and attention throughout their journey, airlines' rates for live animals are often more expensive than regular passenger ticket prices. For cargo specifically, most airlines base the ticket pricing for pets on the travel crate's volume and the pet's weight with the travel crate.

Additionally, you must consider how the costs to fly your dog will be affected if your dog's routing requires a layover. Layovers for pets that last more than a few hours can add additional fees, which ensure they are well looked after at a pet hotel until they are put on the next flight. While you may be able to jump on a discount flight to your destination without worrying about routing or stops, pets have to be carefully routed to ensure they're only flying in and out of airports that have pet-friendly airlines.

Lastly, it is essential to note that some airlines will not allow you to book directly with them to fly your dog internationally to some countries. Instead, you must go through a pet-shipping company with an airline account. This is because they want assurance that the import procedures and paperwork were completed correctly to avoid penalties or fees.

Example Estimate: Flying one small dog (like a Chihuahua) domestically via cargo with a pet-friendly airline, will likely cost between $275 USD to $300 USD. Larger dogs’ airfreight (like a Great Dane) can go up to around $1000 USD for a domestic move, especially if you have a custom kennel. International flights can be two to three times this amount, depending on the locations involved.

Other Dog Transport Service Costs

Of course, how much it costs to fly your dog is just one part of the overall moving expenses. Don't forget that your pet may need additional transportation services once they land.

Ground Transportation 

If you're moving with your pet within the continental United States, ground transportation may need to be an option you consider. Due to COVID-19, there are not as many airlines accepting pets as there previously were. Furthermore, if your dog is a large breed or snub-nosed pet, no airlines will fly them in the US. 

Example Estimate: The cost of ground transportation when needed will vary based on the length of the journey. PetRelocation's ground transportation rates start at $2200 - $2400 for a 10-hour drive and increase to around $6000 - $6400 for a cross-country journey.

Pet Taxis

Considering that your dog's travels may not align with your travel plans, looking into hiring services to transport your dog to and from the airport may be a good idea. Hiring a professional pet taxi or driver with a climate-controlled vehicle may not be as inexpensive as you consider the time spent on the drive, the distances traveled, fuel costs, and traffic.

Also, if you plan on having someone check in your dog at the airport for you, it may take a few hours to ensure that all of the paperwork is in order and that your dog is weighed and prepped for departure.

Example Estimate: Animal transportation costs vary based on the city, distance from the airport, number of pets, and time of day the travel takes place. The transport of one dog in a major US city (like New York) during regular business hours to an airport within 10 miles of your home may cost you up to $275 USD.

International Dog Transport Service Costs to Consider

Of course, how much it costs to fly your dog internationally can be drastically more than a domestic move. Here are some unique dog transport service costs associated with international travel.

Government Approvals or Endorsements

Depending on where you are moving, you may need to take your dog's veterinary paperwork to get government approval or endorsement before travel. Some countries even require multiple endorsements, such as Consular and USDA.

Again, knowing the rules for importing a dog to your destination is essential.

Example Estimate: USDA endorsement fees can be found on their website here -- for one dog with no blood tests it will cost $38 USD. Keep in mind that this does not include the time spent to book and attend an in-person appointment or the cost of mailing in paperwork to be endorsed.

Import Permits

Some countries will only allow pets to enter with an import permit. As you can imagine, getting formal approval from a government to bring your pet overseas can often come at quite a price.

If your destination requires an import permit, try looking for these fees on that country's government website.

Example Estimate: The fees for obtaining an import permit for a pet going to Australia can be found on the DAFF website here. For just one dog, the import permit fees will cost $480 AUD.

Customs Clearance

Once your dog arrives, clearance steps need to be taken. These can include brokers, taxes, tariffs, and other country-specific fees that must be paid for your dog to be released to you.

Most airlines will gladly share any of these customs fees with you when you book your dog's flight. If that's not the case, check your destination country's government website to see if any customs fees are indicated there.

Example Estimate: New Zealand’s governing body over pet imports, MPI, lists their border clearance charges on their website here. Depending on the country your dog is traveling from, this fee can range anywhere between $28.19 NZD (fixed) to $186.30 NZD (hourly).

Quarantine

If you're moving to a country requiring a quarantine period, like New Zealand or Malaysia, you must consider the fees needed to keep your pet at the quarantine facility. Remember that these facilities offer more than just accommodations for your pet -- they provide food, outdoor time or walks, and medical care if needed.

Example Estimate: The quarantine fees for pets moving to Singapore can be found on the AVA website here. In short, it will cost at least $336.50 SGD for a dog to stay in quarantine for 10 days (the typical minimum period for pets).

Should You Hire Professional Pet Relocators?

While some people choose to handle their pet moves independently, many owners eventually decide to have a service organize it all. Managing the costs and logistics of a pet move from door to door can be complicated and stressful, so hiring an all-in-one pet transportation company relieves the most. It's more expensive to hire a service since you'd also be paying for managing your dog's move, but it's just one less thing to worry about!

Dacey and Radar moved to Australia.
 

Don't just take our word for it -- here is some insight from other happy pet owners who sought PetRelocation's assistance with their dog's travels:

"High heels, lots of treats, and a smiling dog, as she pulled away, made me exhale and focus on the next 3,000 things I needed to do before I made a move the next day." Read More

"We are so happy that we didn't try to do this ourselves, and we picked PetRelocation, especially Evelyn and Kelcey, who helped us with everything." Read More

"From the very first email we received from PetRelocation, the stressful process of moving our precious puppy back to Australia has been completely stress-free." Read More

"Every question and concern was addressed immediately, and we became more confident that Maya would arrive and be released without any issues." Read More

Ready to start planning your dog's move? Contact us to discuss your safe pet move options.