Australia has one of the strictest processes in the world when it comes to importing pets into the country. Importing a cat or dog into Australia can be a detailed and time-consuming process.
For pets that have only lived in Australia or New Zealand, the typical import timeline is approximately one month. However, for cats or dogs that have resided outside of Australia or New Zealand within their lifetime, the process may take longer depending on their travel history.
To ensure a smooth import process, it is essential that your pet meets a series of import requirements, which include veterinary examinations and necessary treatments. Jetpets can coordinate this vet work for you as part of our tailored services. You can find more info here on importing pets into Australia.
As every airport is different, there will be different protocols and rules in place for each airport. In addition to this, customs and quarantine processes will differ from each overseas destination, so it is vital that you have all the correct documentation and information the authorities will require to release your furbaby to you upon arrival.
Our Jetpets Pet Travel Consultants are available to provide you with the necessary information and service options to support you throughout this process. Additionally, should you be unable to personally collect your pet upon arrival, we can coordinate transportation to your new residence to ensure a smooth and stress-free transition for both you and your pet.
Depending on the destination and the airline selected, your pet may be eligible for a comfort stop during long-haul travel. These scheduled breaks provide an opportunity for your pet to be removed from their travel crate, enjoy a short walk around purpose-built facilities (subject to availability at specific locations), and have a toilet break between flight segments. During the comfort stop, your pet will also be offered a light meal and fresh water to ensure they remain comfortable and well-cared for on the next leg of their journey.
Speak to a Jetpets Pet Travel Consultant who will inform you if your pet requires a comfort stop as part of their overseas pet travel journey.
Ensuring your pet is comfortable and familiar with their travel crate is a vital part of preparing them for their international pet travel journey. Our Jetpets Pet Travel Consultants will assist in selecting the correct crate size, ensuring your pet can sit, stand, and turn around with ease, while also confirming that the crate meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) compliance standards required by airlines.
Some customers underestimate the importance of choosing an appropriately sized crate. However, an ill-fitting crate can compromise your pet’s comfort and well-being during travel. More critically, if a crate does not meet airline requirements, it may be rejected at the time of lodgment, resulting in delays and added stress for both you and your pet.
Simply use our Pet Measurement Tool
Where practical, we recommend collecting your pet’s travel crate from our Transit Lounge several weeks prior to departure. Introducing the crate early and placing it in a familiar environment—such as an area your pet frequents—can assist with the acclimatisation process. To encourage a positive association, you may place a favourite toy, blanket, or treat bowl inside the crate. Initially, we suggest removing the crate door to allow your pet to explore it freely and at their own pace.
It is important not to force your pet into the crate, as they need to recognise it as a safe and comfortable space. Pets are naturally curious and will often investigate the crate on their own. When they do so, positive reinforcement—such as praise or a small treat—can help create a rewarding experience and reinforce a sense of security.
Once your furbaby appears comfortable in and around the crate, consider feeding their meals inside it and even allowing them to sleep in it overnight. This gradual familiarisation helps ensure your pet feels secure and at ease in the crate, promoting a smoother and less stressful travel experience.
International Pet Travel from New Zealand
Moving your pet overseas can be complex due to the regulations for both entry and exit permits required by Government authorities. Whilst our team of expert Pet Travel Consultants take care of all the requirements that the Government and Airlines set out, here are some other helpful tips you can prepare for:
- Do you have access to your pet’s medical history including all of their current vaccinations which you may require?
- Does your pet have a current microchip?
- Weight and current measurements of your pet to assist with obtaining an accurate quotation for your move.
- Is your pet a banned or restricted breed within the Country or State you are moving to?
- Are there any council rules or regulations you may need to comply with in your new location?
As you can see above, travelling overseas with your pet can be a complicated task, which is why Jetpets are here to help. Contact one of our Pet Travel consultants to assist you with your international move.
All countries mandate that pets need to be microchipped for identification purposes. It is important that your pet is microchipped before commencing any vet work needed to move your pet internationally (including vaccinations). Our team of Pet Travel Consultants are happy to guide you through the steps. It is important that when you document your pet’s microchip, either within their vet booklet on a travel document, or to our team, that it is accurate to avoid delays in your pet’s travel.
If your pet has been prescribed any medication or suffers from any health conditions, it is crucial that you inform your Jetpets Pet Travel Consultant before making a booking. This information must be recorded in your pet’s file to ensure their safety and well-being during travel. If necessary, our veterinarians will administer any required medications prior to departure, and our Pet Handlers will ensure that the medications are properly secured with your pet’s crate where airlines permit.
It is a requirement for most destinations that your pet has a valid Rabies vaccination and C5 for Dogs and F3 for Cats up to date, especially if they are required to stay overnight in pet accommodation. Dogs may also be required to be fully vaccinated against Leptospirosis.
Our Jetpets Pet Travel Consultants will guide you through this process, advise what will be required, and assist you with this process.
When preparing for your pet’s overseas journey, there are several steps you can take to ensure a smoother process for both you and your pet. First, ensure that all of your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and that the necessary vaccination records are on file. These documents will be required by our veterinarians and relevant government authorities for export approval and arrival clearance.
Additionally, it is a mandatory requirement that your dog or cat is microchipped for international pet travel, and that this microchip is scanned and verified at the time of any vaccinations given. Original copies, in most cases, are also mandatory to have available at the final Veterinarian appointment/s and at the final destination country. Your Pet Travel Consultant will be able to advise all the necessary requirements based on your pets destination country and their Government requirements.
