Question 1

What is a pet taxi service?

Accepted Answer

A pet taxi works like a regular car service, but designed for pets and their people. You book a time, and a pet-experienced driver picks you up and gets you and your pet safely to the airport, vet, or wherever you need to go.

Question 2

What documents are required for international pet travel?

Accepted Answer

It depends on where you're going, but most countries require a health certificate from your vet, proof of rabies vaccination, a microchip, and sometimes an import permit or parasite treatments. We'll map out exactly what you need and when each document has to be completed.

Question 3

How far in advance should I plan my pet's trip?

Accepted Answer

Plan for at least 3–6 months before your travel date. Some destinations have strict timelines and waiting periods, so starting early gives you more airline options and fewer surprises.

Question 4

Can my pet travel with me in cabin?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes. It depends on your airline, route, destination rules, and your pet's size. In most cases, only small pets that fit comfortably under the seat in an approved carrier can travel in cabin.

Question 5

How long does the whole relocation process take?

Accepted Answer

That comes down to your route, airline options, and the paperwork and vet steps required. Some trips can be organized in a few weeks; more complex destinations can take several months from first vet visit to flight day.

Question 6

My pet has never flown before. How can I prepare them?

Accepted Answer

Crate training is key. A few weeks before travel, start with short, positive sessions in the crate, add familiar bedding and a favourite toy, and slowly increase the time they spend inside. We'll give you a step-by-step conditioning plan based on your pet.

Question 7

What are the pet travel requirements for the UK, Australia, and New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

These destinations have some of the strictest rules in the world. They often require microchipping, specific vaccines, blood tests, parasite treatments, paperwork from government-approved vets, and in some cases quarantine on arrival. We handle the timelines, booking, and documentation so everything lines up with local regulations.

Question 8

Which countries require quarantine for pets?

Accepted Answer

Countries like Australia, New Zealand, and some others may require quarantine depending on where you're coming from and how closely you've followed their steps. Quarantine length varies, and if we start early enough and stay on schedule, many pets can reduce or avoid quarantine altogether.

Question 9

What are some pet-friendly destinations for relocation?

Accepted Answer

Major cities with strong pet infrastructure—vet access, parks, and pet-friendly rentals—tend to be easiest. When we build your plan, we factor in not just how to get your pet there, but how life will look for them once they arrive.

Question 10

Are there destinations you don't service yet?

Accepted Answer

We work with partners globally, but there are a few countries we can't currently support due to safety concerns, war, sanctions, or strict rules for certain species. If you share your route with us, we'll confirm what we can safely offer.

Question 11

What happens if travel rules change while I'm preparing?

Accepted Answer

Pet travel rules do change. We monitor airline and government updates, and as members of IPATA and through our overseas partners, we receive industry alerts. If rules shift mid-process, we adjust your plan so your pet stays compliant and travel can continue safely.

Question 12

What services does Paws en route offer?

Accepted Answer

We support international and cross-border pet travel, domestic trips within Canada, and ground transportation. We can also help with crate sourcing and fitting, boarding and daycare, vet appointment coordination, customs clearance, and full family-and-pet move planning.

Question 13

What's included in a full relocation package?

Accepted Answer

Typically: door-to-door logistics, vet coordination, crate fitting, paperwork and permits, flight booking, airline check-in, customs clearance, and arrival support. Depending on your route, this can also include pet nanny services and document handling at both ends.

Question 14

What is a pet nanny service and when would I use it?

Accepted Answer

A pet nanny is a trained handler who travels with your pet in cabin on a commercial flight. It's ideal for smaller pets who qualify for in-cabin travel when you can't fly with them yourself or prefer a dedicated escort.

Question 15

Do you handle exotic animals, or just cats and dogs?

Accepted Answer

We primarily transport cats and dogs, but we've also moved small mammals, birds, reptiles, and other companion animals where regulations allow. Each case is reviewed individually for safety, welfare, and legal compliance.

Question 16

How do I book a trip with Paws en route?

Accepted Answer

Start by filling out our intake form or booking a consultation. We'll review your pet's details, your route, and timing, then come back with a tailored travel plan and quote.

Question 17

Can you accommodate last-minute travel?

Accepted Answer

We try. Short-notice trips are limited by airline capacity and government timelines, so options can be more constrained and may require premium routing or services. We'll be honest about what's realistic for your dates.

Question 18

Is there a peak season for pet travel?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Summer months and major holidays are especially busy, and some airlines add seasonal restrictions due to heat. Planning ahead gives you more flight options and helps avoid embargo-related delays.

Question 19

Will my travel dates match my pet's flight?

Accepted Answer

We aim to align your itineraries, but international pet routes don't always match human schedules exactly. Your pet's flight may be a few days before or after yours, depending on airline, routing, and weather or embargo restrictions. We'll walk you through the options before you book.

Question 20

Are there add-on services I can include?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Common add-ons include pet nanny service, priority vet bookings, customs escorts, upgraded crates, and tailored boarding or daycare before and after travel. We can also arrange airport pickup and onward ground transport at destination.

Question 21

How do I get my pet used to their travel crate?

Accepted Answer

Make the crate part of everyday life well before travel day. Keep the door open, add a familiar blanket and toys, feed them near or inside it, and reward calm behaviour. Short, positive sessions work better than forcing long stays at the start.

Question 22

What size crate should I use?

Accepted Answer

The crate must follow IATA guidelines and be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. We'll help you measure your pet and recommend the right crate size and model for your airline and route.

Question 23

Are crates safe and humane for long-distance travel?

Accepted Answer

When fitted properly and used with the right preparation, crates become a secure, den-like space. Many pets settle in and sleep for most of the journey once they're used to the crate.

Question 24

Can I include food, water, or toys in the crate?

Accepted Answer

Airlines require secured water containers, and most allow non-hazardous toys and bedding. We'll advise what to include, how to label feeding and care instructions, and what destination rules allow.

Question 25

Do you provide tips for making my pet comfortable on flight day?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We'll share a pre-flight checklist that typically includes timing meals, hydration, exercise before check-in, and which familiar items to travel with to reduce stress.

Question 26

Can brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds fly?

Accepted Answer

In some cases, yes—but policies vary widely by airline and route. Many carriers either restrict or completely prohibit brachycephalic breeds due to breathing risks. Where it is allowed, airlines often require a vet "fit to fly" letter and sometimes a BOAS assessment. We'll only recommend travel plans that are safe and compliant for your individual pet.

Question 27

Are there animals you can't relocate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can't move banned or protected species, animals restricted by local law, or pets whose medical condition makes travel unsafe. We review each case with both regulations and welfare in mind.

Question 28

Have you moved reptiles, birds, or small mammals before?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We've supported travel for small mammals, birds, and some reptiles when permitted by law and airline policy. The exact setup—crates, containers, and routing—depends on the species and destination.

Question 29

What medical conditions can affect a pet's ability to travel?

Accepted Answer

Conditions like heart disease, respiratory issues, seizures, or recent surgery can change whether and how a pet should travel. Your vet should always be part of the decision. We'll coordinate with them on any special requirements.

Question 30

What's the most unusual animal you've helped relocate?

Accepted Answer

We've been asked to help with some very unique companions, including species that required special permits and partner support. If your pet is a little out of the ordinary, we're happy to look at what's possible.

Question 31

Is sedation allowed or recommended for flights?

Accepted Answer

No. Sedation is generally discouraged because it can affect breathing and balance at altitude, and many airlines will refuse sedated animals. If your pet has anxiety or medical needs, talk to your vet about safer alternatives.

Question 32

What vaccinations or health tests are required?

Accepted Answer

Most destinations require rabies vaccination, microchipping, and a recent health certificate. Some also require blood tests or parasite treatments on specific timelines. Some airlines additionally ask for a "fit to fly" letter. We'll line up the exact requirements for your route.

Question 33

What if my pet gets sick before the trip?

Accepted Answer

Contact your vet and let us know right away. Depending on the diagnosis, we may need to delay or adjust travel to keep your pet safe and compliant.

Question 34

What about heat stress and weather risks?

Accepted Answer

We plan around weather. That can mean early-morning or late-evening flights, avoiding certain airports or routings in hot seasons, or shifting dates if airlines issue heat-related embargoes. Your pet's welfare is always the priority.

Question 35

Are there quarantine issues if my pet has an illness?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some illnesses and incomplete vaccinations can trigger quarantine on arrival or even deny entry. That's why we work closely with you and your vet on timing vaccines, tests, and treatments before travel.

Question 36

Can my pet fly with me whenever I want if I pay more?

Accepted Answer

No. Even with a higher budget, we still have to follow airline policies, aircraft limits, and destination laws. Money can sometimes buy more routing options, but it can't override regulations or safety rules.

Question 37

Is international pet travel only for cats and dogs?

Accepted Answer

Not exclusively. Many countries allow other companion animals—like rabbits, birds, and some reptiles—under specific conditions. The key is understanding what your destination permits and how your pet needs to travel to stay safe and compliant.

Question 38

Do all countries treat pets like family during customs?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Some countries treat pets as live animals travelling under cargo rules, even if you see them as family members. That's why having experienced partners at arrival is important—we arrange for trusted local agents to meet your pet, clear them through the process, and make sure they're cared for and comforted.

Question 39

Can I skip microchipping if my pet has other ID?

Accepted Answer

Usually not. Most destinations require an ISO-compliant microchip, and in many cases it must be implanted before the rabies vaccination used for travel. If your pet already has a chip, we'll confirm it can be read at your destination and make sure the paperwork matches.

Question 40

Is quarantine always mandatory?

Accepted Answer

No. Some countries, like Australia and New Zealand, do require quarantine, but many others allow pets to enter without quarantine if all conditions are met on time. Our goal is always to minimize or avoid quarantine where the law allows.

Question 41

How much does pet travel cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing depends on destination, pet size, routing, airline fees, crate size, and the level of service you choose. After we review your intake form, we'll provide a clear quote tailored to your route and pet.

Question 42

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept major credit cards, e-transfers, and wire transfers. In some cases, payment plans may be available—ask us during your consultation and we'll explain what's possible.

Question 43

Are there extra or hidden fees?

Accepted Answer

We aim to be transparent. Your quote will outline the main costs—such as flights, crate, ground transport, permits, and customs handling—so you can see what's included. If there are potential third-party fees (for example, boarding or government charges), we'll flag those in advance.

Question 44

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A deposit secures your spot in our logistics schedule and covers the early planning and documentation work we do before travel.

Question 45

Do you offer refunds if travel is cancelled?

Accepted Answer

Refunds depend on how far we are into planning and what third-party services have already been booked. Our terms of service explain the refund and change policy; we'll walk you through it before you sign.

Everything you need to know about pet travel.

General Pet Travel

Destination Rules

Our Services

Booking & Planning

Crates & Comfort

Breeds & Species

Medical & Safety

Travel Myths

Pricing & Payment

Expert Pet Travel & Relocation Services