Shipping pets can be a daunting experience, both for you and your furry friend. Whether you’re relocating to a new city, moving abroad, or sending your pet to a loved one, ensuring their safety and comfort is a top priority. From choosing the right pet shipping service to preparing your pet for travel, there are many factors to consider. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about shipping pets, including tips for reducing stress, understanding airline regulations, and selecting the best travel options. Let’s make your pet’s journey as smooth and worry-free as possible!
Happy Shipping Pets with Grupo Fawa. Image: Grupo Fawa.
What Airlines Are Shipping Pets Right Now?
Not all airlines allow pets, and policies can vary widely. Some of the most pet-friendly airlines in 2023 include Delta, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Lufthansa. These airlines offer options for both in-cabin and cargo shipping, depending on the size and breed of your pet. However, it’s crucial to check each airline’s specific pet policies, as restrictions may apply based on the destination, weather conditions, and breed. Always book in advance and confirm your pet’s reservation to avoid last-minute surprises.
How Does Shipping Pets Work?
Shipping pets involves several steps to ensure their safety and compliance with regulations. First, you’ll need to choose between in-cabin, checked baggage, or cargo shipping, depending on your pet’s size and the airline’s policies. Next, ensure your pet has a sturdy, airline-approved crate and all required documentation, such as health certificates and vaccination records. For international travel, additional steps like microchipping, blood tests, or quarantine may be required. Working with a professional pet shipping service can simplify the process and ensure your pet’s journey is smooth. Check out our pet cargo services.
Shipping Pets to Australia
Australia has some of the strictest pet import regulations in the world to protect its unique ecosystem. Pets must undergo a lengthy process, including microchipping, vaccinations, blood tests, and a mandatory 10-day quarantine upon arrival. The entire process can take 6-12 months, so planning ahead is essential. Working with a pet relocation specialist is highly recommended to navigate Australia’s complex requirements.
Shipping Pets to Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a pet-friendly destination, but there are still rules to follow. Your pet will need a health certificate issued by a licensed vet, proof of rabies vaccination, and an import permit. Costa Rica does not require quarantine for pets arriving from most countries, making it a relatively straightforward process. However, always check for updates on regulations before traveling.
Shipping Pets to Mexico
Mexico is relatively pet-friendly, but pets must have a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination. Some airlines may also require an import permit. Mexico does not impose quarantine for pets arriving from most countries, making it a straightforward process for pet owners.
Shipping Pets to Guam
Shipping pets to Guam requires careful planning due to its unique location and strict rabies-free status. Pets must have a valid rabies vaccination, a health certificate, and an import permit. Guam also requires a 120-day waiting period after a rabies titer test. Working with a pet shipping expert is highly recommended to ensure compliance with all regulations.
Shipping Pets to Europe
Shipping pets to Europe requires compliance with EU regulations. Your pet will need a microchip, rabies vaccination, and an EU health certificate. Some countries may also require a tapeworm treatment. Fortunately, most European countries do not impose quarantine if all requirements are met. Popular destinations like France, Spain, and Germany are relatively pet-friendly, but always verify the specific rules for your destination.
- Shipping Pets to Germany
Germany is one of the most pet-friendly countries in Europe. To ship your pet, ensure they have a microchip, rabies vaccination, and an EU health certificate. Germany does not require quarantine for pets arriving from most countries, but pets must enter through designated airports. If you’re traveling from a non-EU country, additional documentation may be required.
- Shipping Pets to Italy
Italy is a pet-friendly destination, but pets must meet EU import requirements. This includes a microchip, rabies vaccination, and an EU health certificate. Italy does not require quarantine for pets arriving from most countries, but pets must enter through designated ports of entry. Always verify the latest regulations before traveling.
- Shipping Pets to the UK
The UK has strict pet import rules, including microchipping, rabies vaccination, and a tapeworm treatment. Pets must also have an EU health certificate and enter the UK through designated ports. The UK does not require quarantine for pets arriving from most countries, but failure to comply with regulations can result in delays.
Shipping Pets with grupo Fawa.
Shipping Pets to Japan
Japan has strict pet import rules, including microchipping, rabies vaccinations, and a rabies titer test. Pets must also undergo a 180-day waiting period after the titer test. Upon arrival, pets may be inspected and quarantined for up to 12 hours. Working with a pet relocation specialist is highly recommended to navigate Japan’s complex requirements.
Shipping Pets to Korea
South Korea requires pets to have a microchip, rabies vaccination, and a rabies titer test. Pets must also undergo a 30-day waiting period after the titer test. A health certificate issued within 10 days of travel is required, and pets may be quarantined upon arrival if documentation is incomplete.
Shipping Pets to Okinawa
Okinawa, Japan, follows the same strict pet import rules as mainland Japan. Pets must have a microchip, rabies vaccination, and a rabies titer test, followed by a 180-day waiting period. Military personnel stationed in Okinawa should check with their base’s relocation office for additional support.
Shipping Pets to the Philippines
The Philippines requires pets to have a microchip, rabies vaccination, and an import permit. A health certificate issued within 10 days of travel is also required. Pets may be quarantined for up to 30 days upon arrival, depending on their country of origin.
Shipping Pets to the US
The U.S. has specific requirements for importing pets, including a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination. Dogs must also be at least 12 weeks old to enter the country. Some states may have additional requirements, so always check the rules for your destination.
- Shipping Pets to Hawaii
Hawaii has strict pet import rules to maintain its rabies-free status. Pets must undergo a 120-day quarantine or qualify for the 5-Day-or-Less program by meeting specific requirements, including a rabies titer test and microchipping. All documentation must be submitted in advance, and failure to comply can result in extended quarantine.
- Shipping Pets to Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so pet shipping requirements are similar to those for the mainland U.S. Pets must have a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination. Puerto Rico does not require quarantine for pets arriving from most countries, making it a relatively easy process.
