Flying with Fur: How International Pet Delivery Works Step by Step

Bringing a pet across borders is totally doable—with the right plan. This guide walks you through the end-to-end process for international pet delivery from (or to) Australia, including timelines, paperwork, travel prep, and what to expect on the day.

1) Start with the Rules (and a Timeline)

Every country has its own import rules. Build your plan around official requirements + airline rules.

Typical timeline

6–12 months out: Research destination rules, quarantine, and airline policies. Some countries need long lead times.
3–6 months out: Vaccinations, microchip, possible rabies titre test (if required), and export paperwork.
30–21 days out: Final rabies wait period (if required), crate training, confirm flights.
10–5 days out: Vet health check + official health certificate.
Travel week: Crate labels, copies of documents, confirm handover times.

Australia-specific note:
• Exporting from Australia: You’ll follow destination-country rules plus airline rules.
• Importing to Australia: Australia has strict biosecurity; import permits and quarantine at Mickleham (VIC) are standard. Plan months ahead.

2) Microchip First, Then Vaccines

ISO 11784/11785 microchip must be implanted before key vaccinations (especially rabies).
Core vaccinations (dogs: C3/C5; cats: F3) as required by destination.
Rabies vaccine is often required for international travel (even though Australia is rabies-free). Many destinations require the rabies shot at ≥12 weeks old and a 21–30 day wait before travel.
Rabies titre (RNATT): Some destinations require a blood test after vaccination and a waiting period. Check your specific country.

3) Paperwork & Permits

You’ll typically need:

Official Veterinary Health Certificate (issued within a set window, often 5–10 days before departure).
Vaccination records (with dates and microchip number).
Rabies certificate (and titre results, if required).
Import permit (if the destination country requires one).
Export documents from Australia (issued by a government-accredited vet/authority).
Air Waybill (for cargo bookings).
Customs paperwork and any broker details at destination.

Pro tip: Keep two printed sets in a waterproof sleeve attached to the crate, plus digital copies on your phone.

4) Choose Flight Type & Routing

From Australia, most pets travel as manifest cargo in a temperature-controlled, pressurized hold.

Consider:

Direct flights when possible to reduce stress.
Layovers at pet-friendly hubs if needed (some airports have animal stations).
Season & temperature embargoes (summer/winter restrictions).
Breed restrictions (brachycephalic breeds face extra limits on some airlines).
In-cabin? Generally not permitted on flights departing Australia (service animals excepted). Some foreign carriers allow in-cabin on other routes—always check.

5) Crate: IATA-Compliant & Comfort-Focused

Your travel crate must meet IATA LAR standards:

Pet can stand naturally without ears touching the roof, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Single solid door that locks securely (no flimsy clips).
Absorbent bedding (vet bed/pee pad under a blanket).
Water bowl fixed to the door + no-spill or frozen water trick for long flights.
Labels: “Live Animals,” upright arrows, pet’s name, your contact details, and feeding instructions.
No sedatives (IATA strongly discourages them due to risks at altitude).
Crate training: Begin 2–4 weeks before travel—daily calm time inside with treats.

6) Book with a Pet Transport Specialist (Optional but Smart)

Reputable pet relocation companies (often IPATA members) can:

Verify country requirements and timelines.
Arrange export vet appointments, permits, and health certificates.
Book air cargo space and provide the Air Waybill.
Coordinate customs clearance and quarantine on arrival (if needed).
Offer door-to-door pickup and delivery.

If you DIY, double-check every requirement with the destination’s official authority and your chosen airline.

7) Pre-Flight Vet Check & Health Certificate

Within the required window (often 5–10 days pre-departure):

Full exam, parasite treatments if required.
Official health certificate issued/signed as specified by destination (and endorsed if required).
Confirm fit to fly note.

8) Feeding, Hydration & Exercise Plan

Light meal 6–8 hours before check-in; no big meals right before the flight.
Hydration up to check-in; use a secure water bowl in the crate.
Exercise before travel to help your pet relax.
Include a worn T-shirt/blanket for scent comfort and a safe chew.

9) Airport Drop-Off & Check-In

Arrive early (cargo terminals often require earlier lodgement).
Airline inspects crate + documents.
Attach paperwork sleeve, backup tags, and any required stickers.
Calm goodbye—keep your energy steady; pets mirror your vibe.

10) Arrival, Customs & Possible Quarantine

At destination:

Customs clearance (have broker or relocation partner if needed).
Vet inspection may occur.
Quarantine if required (varies by country; can range from no quarantine to several weeks).
Collect your pet or have the agent deliver them to your door.

11) Costs to Expect (Ballpark)

Costs vary widely by route, pet size, crate size, season, and quarantine:

Crate: AUD $120–$600+
Vet + tests + certificates: AUD $200–$1,200+
Air cargo: AUD $800–$4,000+ (large pets/routes can exceed this)
Brokerage/quarantine (if applicable): Varies by country
Door-to-door service: Additional but often worth the reduced stress

12) Quick FAQs

How old must my pet be?
Usually ≥12 weeks for rabies vaccination; add the 21-day wait (or more) if required—so minimum practical age is often 15+ weeks.

Can two pets share a crate?
Only if they’re young, similar size, compatible, and within airline/IATA limits. Many routes require one pet per crate—confirm with your carrier.

Should I sedate my pet?
No—not recommended by IATA due to health risks.

Will my pet have food mid-flight?
Long routes may include handling at layovers; airlines focus on water access. Avoid large meals before travel.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Journey

Start early—some destinations require titre tests + waiting periods.
Train the crate like it’s a cozy den, not a cage.
Put duplicates of documents in the crate sleeve and keep digital copies.
Confirm pickup location (cargo terminal vs. main terminal).
Watch weather—temperature embargoes can affect schedules.

Final Word

International pet delivery is all about planning, paperwork, and pet comfort. Start early, follow the official rules, crate-train ahead of time, and work with experienced professionals when you can. Your furry family member can absolutely travel safely—and settle happily at the new home.