Pet Travel FAQs – Everything You Need to Know
How do I relocate my pet internationally?
Relocating a pet involves microchipping, vaccinations, documentation, and meeting the destination country’s import rules. Our team manages the entire process to ensure a smooth relocation.
How long does it take to move a pet to another country?
The timeline depends on the destination. It can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months, depending on vaccinations, permits, and quarantine requirements.
Do pets need quarantine when moving internationally?
Quarantine depends on the country. Some destinations allow entry without quarantine, while others require mandatory quarantine if conditions are not fully met.
What documents are required for pet relocation?
Pets typically need vaccination records, a health certificate, an import permit, and a microchip for identification.
Does my pet need a microchip for international travel?
Yes, most countries require an ISO-compliant microchip before vaccinations and travel.
Can you handle the entire pet relocation process for me?
Yes, our veterinary-led team handles everything from documentation and health checks to travel coordination and compliance.
Is pet travel safe for dogs and cats?
Yes, pet travel is safe when handled correctly with proper planning, approved airlines, and veterinary supervision.
Which countries have strict pet import rules?
Countries like Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and Japan have stricter regulations compared to others.
When should I start planning my pet relocation?
It’s best to start planning at least 2 to 6 months in advance, depending on the destination.
Can puppies or kittens travel internationally?
Yes, but they must meet minimum age requirements and vaccination timelines depending on the destination country.
Can I travel on the same flight as my pet?
Yes, in many cases pets can travel on the same flight, either in the cabin (depending on size and airline) or as checked baggage/cargo. This depends on airline policies and destination rules.
What is the cost of pet relocation?
The cost varies based on destination, size of the pet, airline, and requirements such as quarantine or permits. Our team provides customised quotes based on your needs.
Are there breed restrictions for pet travel?
Yes, some countries and airlines have restrictions on specific breeds, especially brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and certain dog breeds.
What type of crate is required for pet travel?
Pets must travel in an airline-approved crate that meets IATA standards. The crate should be well-ventilated, secure, and comfortable for your pet.
What happens if documents are incorrect?
Incorrect or missing documents can lead to delays, quarantine, or refusal of entry. That’s why proper preparation is essential.
What is RNATT, and how long before travel does my pet need it?
RNATT is the Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test — a blood test proving your pet's rabies vaccination produced real immunity. For Australia and Japan, a 180-day waiting period runs from the date the blood sample is drawn, not from the vaccination or result date. This is why these relocations must begin at least seven months out.
What is the minimum age a puppy or kitten can travel?
Pets must be at least 12 weeks old for a valid rabies vaccination, and most destinations require a 21–30 day wait after it — so the earliest realistic travel age is 15 to 16 weeks. Dr Gerry verifies age by dentition during the home visit; sellers offering 8-week-old puppies with 12-week paperwork are a known scam pattern.
What happens if my pet's paperwork is wrong at departure?
The airline can refuse boarding, and some destinations impose quarantine of up to 120 days. The most common Hong Kong failures are the microchip being implanted after the rabies shot, a missing Continuous Residency declaration, and parasite treatments recorded without brand names or active ingredients.
Can my pet travel in the cabin from Hong Kong?
Rarely on long-haul flights. Australia, New Zealand, Dubai and South Africa accept pets only as cargo. Hong Kong Airlines offers limited in-cabin carriage on regional routes such as Japan, while KLM and Lufthansa may allow pets under 8 kg on specific legs. Private charter is the main full-cabin option.
Can snub-nosed pets fly from Hong Kong?
Yes, with specialist handling. Brachycephalic breeds face airline restrictions because a proportion suffer from Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). Several carriers now assess individual pets through an IPATA fit-to-fly assessment rather than banning breeds outright — an assessment Dr Gerry Pahl performs in Hong Kong.