Author: April Ratkovic

New Zealand Receives CEIV Live Animals Certification

Posted on by Jetpets

Leading the Way with World Class Animal Welfare Standards

Jetpets is proud to be the first and only pet transport company in New Zealand to achieve IATA’s CEIV Live Animals Certification — a globally recognised standard for the safe, compliant, and welfare-focused transport of animals.  This internationally recognised achievement highlights Jetpets’ unwavering commitment to animal welfare, industry-leading processes, and the highest standards of pet transportation. The Jetpets New Zealand team is thrilled to have its dedication and expertise acknowledged on a global stage by IATA.

As highlighted by Brendan Sullivan, IATA Global Head of Cargo “Congratulations to Jetpets on achieving CEIV Live Animals certification in New Zealand. Jetpets has led the way by implementing standards and best practices to protect the welfare of animals travelling by air. Customers can be confident that their pets’ journeys are safe and comfortable.”

This incredible milestone is the result of the dedication and hard work of our teams across New Zealand, all committed to delivering the very highest standards of safety and care for every animal travelling with Jetpets. From industry-leading systems and processes to robust policies and procedures, every part of our operation is designed with animal welfare at its heart.

Why is CEIV Live Animal Certification so important?

CEIV (Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators) Live Animals Certification is a globally recognised benchmark for the safe and compliant transport of live animals.  For pet owners, choosing a CEIV Live Animal Certified transport provider, means selecting a company that has undergone rigorous auditing and validation across all aspects of its operations – from handling procedures and staff training to facilities and contingency planning. It gives pet owners complete peace of mind knowing their beloved pets are cared for under rigorous, internationally recognised welfare standards.

For pet owners, this distinction is more than an industry first. It’s a clear signal that when you choose Jetpets, you’re choosing a provider that has been independently assessed and verified against the highest international standards for animal welfare, handling and care.

We understand that when you’re moving your pet, you’re placing your trust in someone to care for a much-loved member of your family. CEIV Live Animals Certification ensures that every stage of your pet’s journey.

Jetpets unwavering level of care is built into everything we do. Our highly trained teams operate within robust, internationally aligned frameworks, supported by ongoing training, strong governance, and a commitment to continuous improvement. We don’t just meet standards, we invest in raising them, because we know that’s what our customers expect and what their pets deserve.

 “This certification sets a clear benchmark for what pet owners should expect when transporting their animals, it reflects the capability of our people, the strength of our systems, and our unwavering commitment to animal welfare. Most importantly, it gives our customers confidence that their pets are in safe, experienced hands, supported by internationally recognised standards at every stage of their pets journey,” said Belinda Gallpen, General Manager, NZ

CEIV Live Animals Certification goes beyond basic compliance — it represents a genuine, ongoing commitment to excellence in animal welfare. Every touchpoint of your pet’s journey is carefully managed, from reducing stress during handling to ensuring coordinated care with airline partners, so that your pet travels as safely and comfortably as possible.  When you choose Jetpets, you’re not just choosing a transport provider, you’re choosing a team that is accountable, experienced, and trusted to care for what matters to you the most.

 

International Pet Travel With Veterinary Support

Posted on by Jetpets

Moving overseas is one of life’s biggest transitions — and when your pet is part of your family, their wellbeing comes first. At Jetpets NZ, international pet travel isn’t just about logistics. It’s about medical confidence, animal welfare and trusting your fur baby to industry professionals.

From complex documentation to long‑haul flight risk management, our veterinary team works alongside our pet travel consultants, pet handlers to ensure your pet’s welfare is never compromised — no matter the destination.

Meet Our Veterinary Team

Our Auckland based Veterinarian for moves to Australia is Dr Jake Kim – BVSc MANZCVS (VPH) who has over 8 years’ experience in International Pet Travel to give you complete peace of mind that your fur baby is cared for when in our care.

International pet travel involves far more than simply booking a flight. Each country has strict biosecurity, vaccination and health requirements with even the slightest variation to the strict entry documentation causing potential delays, quarantine issues, or denied entry.

Jetpets’ partnering vets are embedded into our operations. Their role is to provide medical oversight, welfare assessment, and compliance assurance across every international move. They work alongside our Pet Travel Consultants to ensure each journey is well planned and in line with our company mission of ensuring Happy Pets, Happy Customers and Happy People.

Our Vet Teams Oversee:

  • Your pet’s travel plan is reviewed with health, age, breed, and temperament in mind.
  • Documentation is assessed for accuracy and destination compliance
  • Welfare decisions are made proactively, not reactively

For anxious pets or complex itineraries, this veterinary involvement is invaluable.

International Documentation & Compliance Expertise

Each country has its own import rules, vaccination schedules, parasite treatments, and health certification requirements — and these regulations change frequently.

Our Jetpets team will ensure compliance expertise for:

  • Correct sequencing of vaccinations and health checks
  • Alignment with official government and airline requirements
  • Reduced risk of travel disruption, quarantine delays, or rejections on arrival

With Jetpets, documentation isn’t just completed — it’s professionally validated with animal welfare at each and every step of the process and then to comply with biosecurity for the destination country pets are travelling to.

Risk Management for Long‑Haul & Trans‑Tasman Flights

Long‑haul and Trans‑Tasman pet travel requires careful planning to manage stress, temperature exposure, and transit timing. Our dedicated vets work alongside our logistics team to assess:

  • Flight duration and routing
  • Breed‑specific and age‑related considerations
  • Anxiety levels and behavioural needs
  • Seasonal weather impacts at departure, transit, and arrival

This collaborative risk‑management approach allows Jetpets to make informed decisions about flight timing, crate selection, and transit protocols — always prioritising your pet’s comfort and safety as our number one priority.

One Provider. Complete Oversight for Kiwi Pets Moving Overseas

Jetpets offers an integrated pet travel ecosystem that few providers can match.

Your pet’s journey is supported by:

  • Experienced pet handlers and animal welfare staff
  • Purpose Built Transit Lounges in New Zealand, Australia and other selected locations around the world
  • Access to experienced Veterinary support
  • 24/7 emergency service line ensuring we are contactable every step of the way
  • The only company in NZ to hold the IATA Certificate of Excellence for Live Animal Transportation (CEIV).

Breed, Age & Anxiety Considerations — Because No Two Pets Are Alike

Some pets require additional planning for international travel. Certain breeds, senior pets and animals prone to anxiety all benefit from veterinary‑informed travel decisions.

Jetpets’ vet‑supported approach allows us to:

  • Assess suitability for travel well in advance
  • Adjust routing or timing where appropriate
  • Recommend best‑practice welfare measures for anxious pets
  • Provide honest guidance when travel should be delayed or reconsidered

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my pet need a health check before flying internationally?

Yes. All international pet travel requires an up‑to‑date health assessment. Our dedicated vets review health documentation to ensure it meets both airline and destination country requirements.

What vaccinations are required for overseas travel?

Vaccination requirements vary by destination and may include rabies and additional treatments. Jetpets ensures vaccination timelines are aligned correctly and documented to international standards.

How long does the vet approval process take?

Timeframes will depend on your destination and your pet’s medical history. Early planning is strongly recommended. This will allow time for any vaccinations, blood tests and official certification where required.

 Can I meet the Jetpets nominated Vet before travel?

Yes. Jetpets NZ can arrange veterinary consultations as part of your pet’s international travel planning, providing reassurance and clarity before your journey begins.

Vet‑Led Welfare, Trusted Worldwide

Jetpets NZ believes international pet travel should never involve compromise. By integrating veterinary oversight into our CEIV certified operational platform, we deliver a level of care, transparency, and professionalism that Kiwi pet owners can trust.

Because your pet deserves the safest journey — wherever life takes you next.

IPATA Regional Workshop – Malaysia 2026

Posted on by Jetpets

Jetpets Animal Transport is proud to have Montana Sheridan, IPATA Regional Director, facilitate the IPATA Regional Workshop in Malaysia alongside our Asia Pacific partners, focusing on best practice in pet welfare. Bringing together airlines, veterinarians (including our very own Dr Monica Sharma from Jetpets) and animal transport specialists to assist raise industry standards and ensure all pets are cared for during every stage of their travel journey.

A key theme of the workshop was animal welfare must always come first. This means that on proper veterinary assessments, there may be times when the safest decision is to delay travel, seek a second veterinary opinion, or in some cases, say no to travel altogether.

“The animal has no voice, so it’s our responsibility to advocate for their welfare. Sometimes the most responsible decision is to pause, reassess, or advise against travel. Collaboration across our industry ensures those decisions are informed, ethical, and in the animal’s best interest.” – Montana Sheridan

Collaboration, transparency, and welfare-led decision-making are what truly protect pets in transit. That’s why industry forums like IPATA are so important and more importantly companies taking the lead in ‘Welfare First Decision Making’, which we do every day at Jetpets to ensure Happy Pets, Happy Customers and Happy People.

2025 Has Been An Exciting & Busy Year At Jetpets!

Posted on by Jetpets

Jetpets were privileged to assist thousands of Kiwis relocate their fur babies across Aotearoa and across the world!

We are incredibly proud of our teams across NZ dedicating their commitment to ensuring Happy Pets, Happy Customer and Happy People as part of our vision to be the respected pet travel company of choice, striving for excellence in pet welfare, customer service and investment in our people.

Some of our 2025 highlights for the year included:

Accommodating many special guests! Click Here

 

Opening our Brand-New Purpose-Built Auckland Transit Lounge

 

Assisting James O’Conner move Apollo to NZ then onto London Click Here

 

Supporting our teams to share a cuppa, start meaningful conversations and support mental health and wellbeing Click Here

 

Participating in the IPATA Oceania Regional Meeting in New Zealand Click Here

 

Receiving an Air Canada Customer Appreciation Award

We thank all of our loyal clients for their continued trust and support and we are looking forward to 2026 and some new and exciting developments we are planning to roll out in 2026 – watch this space!

James O’Connor & Apollo on Their Overseas Adventure

Posted on by Jetpets

When Australian rugby union star James O’Connor embarked on his overseas professional journey from Australia to New Zealand and then onto the United Kingdom, there was one companion he couldn’t leave behind—his beloved dog, Apollo.

More than just a pet, Apollo has been James’ loyal sidekick through training camps, match day nerves, and countless recovery sessions. So, when it came time to make the international move, James entrusted Apollo’s journey to our team at Jetpets Animal Transport—and the experience exceeded even his high expectations.

“From the first phone call the Jetpets teams across Australia and New Zealand were absolutely incredible. They made what could have been a stressful experience seamless and stress-free—not just for Apollo, but for me too,” said James.

A Journey Tailored for a True Companion

Jetpets prides itself on personalised pet travel solutions, and Apollo’s move was no exception. Our team of animal transport specialists worked closely with James to coordinate every detail—ensuring Apollo’s comfort, safety, and wellbeing at every stage of the journey.

The Vet That Goes the Extra Mile

Integral to the process was Jetpets’ in-house veterinarian, Dr. Simon, who oversaw Apollo’s health checks, vaccination requirements, and overall readiness for the international flights.

“Dr. Simon was unbelievable. He kept me updated on everything, reassured me about Apollo’s health, and genuinely cared. It felt like Apollo was in the hands of someone who understood just how much he means to me”

Jetpets’ in-house vets play a crucial role in making pet travel smooth and safe, offering tailored advice and professional support to pet owners throughout the journey.

How is Apollo settling?

He couldn’t be happier with his new life now in the English countryside.

“Apollo has settled well as part of his adventure, and we can’t recommend Jetpets in New Zealand and Australia enough. If you’re moving with your pet, you can trust the team at Jetpets, where pet welfare is their number one priority and customer service levels are of the highest standards.”

Celebrating International Pet Day with Jetpets Auckland

Posted on by Jetpets

International Pet Day – Save The Date April 11th!

On International Pet Day this April, we take a moment to appreciate the unconditional love and companionship that our pets bring into our lives. Whether they’re cuddly cats, loyal dogs, or exotic pets, our furry (or scaly) friends are much more than just animals—they’re family.

At Jetpets, we understand how important it is to keep your pets safe, happy, and stress-free, especially when traveling to their new homes. Whether it’s pet travel within New Zealand or an international pet move to Australia or anywhere else your travels may take you, we ensure your fur babies are cared for every step of the way.

With over 30 years of experience in international pet travel, Jetpets is committed to providing a seamless, comfortable, and safe journey for your pets. We offer tailored services for your pet, ensuring their unique needs are met and catered for whilst in our care. From personalised crate sizes and comfortable bedding to regular updates and handling by industry leading pet travel experts, we make sure your furry friends are in the very best hands. Our team is available to guide you through the entire process, offering advice on everything from travel documents to acclimatisation at your new destination.

This International Pet Day, let’s celebrate the love we share with our pets, knowing they’re in good hands when they travel with the team at Jetpets. Because at Jetpets, we don’t just transport pets—we treat them like family.

Happy International Pet Day to all the fur babies and their loving families from the Jetpets team here in New Zealand! 🐾✈️

Regional Oceania IPATA Conference in Auckland 2025

Posted on by Jetpets

Jetpets Australia & New Zealand were privileged to be involved with the Regional Oceania IPATA Conference in Auckland.

This year’s conference brought together passionate industry leaders, government agencies, airlines and animal transportation professionals from around our region. The diverse range of insightful presentations, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities created an atmosphere of collaboration and shared knowledge. It was a fantastic opportunity for everyone involved to discuss new trends, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships within the pet travel community.

Jetpets were very proud to showcase our New Zealand facilities and share our own experiences and expertise with our industry partners. At Jetpets, we are deeply committed to providing the best possible care for pets during their journeys. Being part of the IPATA Conference allowed us to demonstrate our dedication to the industry and continue learning from others who share the same passion for animal welfare.

A heartfelt thank you to our very own Montana Sheridan (Regional Director) and Jenny Wong French (Assistant Regional Director) for their time and dedication into planning this industry event. We also thank the attendees who made the conference so special. The connections made, ideas shared, and insights gained will continue to shape the future of the pet transportation industry.

Spreading Christmas Cheer across the Pacific

Posted on by Jetpets

As part of our small way to give back to the community where we can, Jetpets were thrilled to assist the Togo Primary School in Fiji this month.

One of our team members used to attend the school many years ago and up until now, the school had operated for over 89 years since its opening without a colour printer!

Jetpets arranged for the school to have their very own photocopier and colour printer set up for the children and teachers to enjoy!

A big shout out to Pranil in our Finance team for making this happen and putting so many smiles on the faces of children, teachers and parents this Christmas.

Travelling with your Dog in New Zealand

Posted on by Jetpets

To-dos before you travel

When travelling with your pooch, you’ll need to take care of their pre-holiday checklist as well as your own. This includes making sure they’re up-to-date with their vaccinations and health checks, and have any documentation they may need for travel. If you’re unsure what to look for, then the Jetpets team can help you out.

Packing for your pup is another important preflight to-do. First up, you’ll want to stock up on their favourite treats and food to eat while they’re away from home. Bowls and toys are also important to bring along, as being in unfamiliar places can be stressful for dogs, and having home comforts can help to keep them calm.

Getting around

If you’re travelling New Zealand by car, then be aware of New Zealand’s laws regarding pets in vehicles. These are in place for their comfort and safety, as well as those of other road users, so sticking to them is paramount. When it comes to public transport, on the other hand, the rules can change depending on your location. In Auckland, for example, domesticated animals are allowed on public transport, but there may be some restrictions depending on the service.

Whatever the weather

Dogs can’t directly tell you when they’re too hot or too cold, so it’s up to you to be mindful of the inside and outside temperatures on their behalf.

While 25° might seem like a beautiful summer’s day to you, for your dog, it’s enough to burn their paws when they walk outside. During seasonal peaks and high heats while you travel, your dog will rely on you to keep them safe and comfortable. One way to do this is to make sure they have access to water and shade, but this can be tricky if you’re actively on the move. Cooling ice pads are perfect for use on the road, as they work by absorbing body heat without the need for refrigeration or freezing.

Winter getaways across the Land of the Long White Cloud can get pretty chilly, and even with fur to keep them somewhat warm, your travel pal will likely need more help. Having blankets to hand is a quick fix to this when you’re travelling, particularly during the colder months when temperatures below 7° can pose a threat to some breeds.

Pet Etiquette on the Road

Posted on by Jetpets

Whether you’re at home, on a  holiday or have made the big move to NZ, following pet etiquette is a must!  Here are some interesting facts you may not know.

Leash laws

New Zealand has strict laws and regulations that dog owners must follow, and councils around the country also implement their own additional rules. For your dog’s safety, it’s crucial that you familiarise yourself with the guidelines of each location you visit, as these can vary from place to place. At a minimum, you should keep your dog leashed, or be carrying the leash with you at all times. Remember that abiding by these regulations is necessary to protect yourself and other animals, as well as being crucial for the local environment and wildlife.

Cleaning up

From Auckland to Wellington, Hutt, and around the country, picking up poo is the responsibility of the dog owner. If you fail to clean up after your pup, you can face fines of hundreds of dollars, so don’t leave your holiday accommodation without dog waste bags!