Moving to a new home is an exciting milestone, and when there are paws involved, keeping your furry family member safe and comfortable is a must. At Jetpets, we understand that for Kiwis relocating across the Tasman or further afield, your pet’s health and happiness is the biggest priority.
The good news is that air travel is one of the safest ways for your pet to join you on your next adventure. Understanding how we manage their wellbeing, and how you can help them prepare, makes all the difference.
Understanding Common Health Considerations
Every pet is unique, but there are a few common considerations that can arise during travel:
- Stress and Anxiety: New surroundings and unfamiliar sounds can cause mild anxiety. Creating familiarity and calm is key to helping your pet feel secure.
- Hydration: Changes in routine and environment can increase the need for fluids, making hydration an important focus throughout travel.
- Motion Sickness: While uncommon during flight, some pets may feel unsettled during ground transport.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Certain breeds and older pets may be more sensitive to temperature changes.
These considerations are well understood by our team and are planned for at every stage of your pet’s journey.
Prevention, Care, and Expertise
At Jetpets, safety starts long before travel day with thoughtful planning and a preventative mindset.
Veterinary Expertise and Fitness to Fly
We work closely with experienced pet travel vets to ensure your pet is healthy and ready. Health checks, vaccinations, and documentation are coordinated well in advance, particularly for international relocations where entry requirements can be specific.
Breed-Specific Planning
Certain breeds, senior pets and animals with unique needs are assessed individually. Flight routing, crate setup, and timing are adjusted to prioritise their comfort and safety.
Crate Comfort and Security
Jetpets provides IATA-approved crates matched to your pet’s size, allowing them to stand, turn, and rest naturally. Proper ventilation and secure construction help your pet feel settled throughout.
A Note on Sedation
Sedation is not recommended unless prescribed by a veterinarian. Most pets travel calmly without it when properly prepared and familiar with their crate.
Preparing Your Pet at Home
There are simple steps you can take to support your pet before departure:
- Crate Familiarisation: Introduce the crate early with familiar bedding or a favourite toy so it becomes a secure retreat.
- Maintain Routine: Keep feeding and exercise consistent in the days before travel.
- Light Feeding: A light meal a few hours before departure helps reduce motion sickness.
- Hydration: Encourage plenty of water in the 24 hours before travel.
During-Travel Protocols
Once in our care, your pet’s wellbeing is our focus at every touchpoint. They travel in a pressurised, temperature-controlled hold, the same environment as the passenger cabin.
- Priority Loading: Your pet boards last and offloads first, minimising tarmac time.
- Hydration Checks: Fresh water is available before boarding and checked upon arrival.
- Climate-Controlled Handling: Your pet remains in temperature-regulated environments throughout.
- Auckland Transit Lounge: Pets departing through Auckland can rest in our purpose-built lounge before takeoff.
Our trained Pet Handlers use low-stress techniques, ensuring gentle care at every stage.
After-Arrival Wellness
Wellbeing doesn’t stop at landing. Your pet has time to hydrate and settle before reuniting with you, and our team coordinates every handover for a smooth, happy reunion.
Staying Connected
From your first enquiry, you’ll have a dedicated Pet Travel Consultant as your point of contact. They’ll guide you through requirements, answer questions, and provide reassurance right through to your pet’s safe arrival.
Why Kiwis Trust Jetpets
Your pet is family, and every protocol we follow is designed to ensure their safety, comfort, and wellbeing. With over 30 years of experience and thousands of successful relocations each year, Jetpets combines expertise with genuine care.
Ready to Travel with Confidence?
At Jetpets NZ, we provide personalised care at every stage, ensuring your pet is calm, comfortable, and well looked after from departure to arrival. Whether you’re moving within New Zealand or overseas, our team is here to help.
Get a quote today and let’s start planning your pet’s next adventure together.