Pet travel preparation checklists.

Confirm destination country entry requirements (check our import requirements guides)

Book an accredited export veterinarian for health certificate

Verify rabies vaccination is current and meets destination's age requirement

Schedule any required booster vaccinations

Confirm microchip is ISO 15-digit compliant; re-chip if not

Research breed restrictions for your airline and destination country

Choose an airline with in-cabin or cargo options for your pet's size

Book the pet space directly with the airline — not just the human ticket

Confirm your carrier meets the airline's maximum dimensions

Check summer embargo calendar for cargo if travelling June–September

Confirm any breed-specific restrictions with the airline's pet desk

Measure your pet in natural standing position: length, height, and width

Select a carrier that is at minimum 10cm taller, wider, and longer than your pet

For cargo: use an IATA-compliant hard-sided crate

For in-cabin: confirm soft-sided carrier dimensions against airline spec

Label the crate with your name, contact, and destination address

Complete all required treatments (tapeworm, parasite, etc.) within the required window

Obtain health certificate from accredited vet within the valid issuance window

Collect government endorsement of health certificate (if required by destination)

Pack a 72-hour supply of any prescription medication, in original labelled packaging

Avoid feeding your pet 4–6 hours before departure to reduce nausea risk

Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours early for international flights

Exercise your pet before departure to reduce anxiety

Place absorbent bedding in the carrier and a worn item of your clothing

Tape a water container inside the crate for cargo shipments

Carry all documentation in your hand luggage, not checked bags

Confirm with check-in staff that the pet booking is on the manifest