Yes, it’s safe, provided that all safety procedures are followed. Here at Relopet, we ensure that we provide your pet with the safest travel experience possible.

• We ensure that all pets travel in a well-ventilated and rigid travel carrier.
• Pets are only booked to fly on aircraft that has a climate-controlled and pressurized cargo area.
• Pets are always provided with enough water throughout their journey.
• We do not transport pets when outside temperatures are below -7°C or above 27°C. Although, the cargo area is climate-controlled, your pet might have to wait on the tarmac before being loaded onto the plane.
• All pets are required to go through the pre-flight health check even if the airline does not require it.
• We give our preference to the airlines that have strict safety policies regarding handling and transportation of live animals.
• We will not transport puppies or kittens that are ten weeks old or younger.
• We will not transport pets that have been sedated or injured.

The short answer is – it depends. There are many factors that come into play: pet’s breed, size, choice of airline, place of origin and destination. Without knowing all the details it’s impossible to make an accurate estimate. However, for your reference, domestic flights within Canada can cost anything from $450 to $1100 (booking fee, airline surcharges, security and handling included). 

Whereas International flights can cost between $2200-$5500 (booking fee, guidance on entry requirements, airline surcharges, security and handling included). 

The safety of your pet is the airline’s priority. The airline staff cannot put any other cargo in close proximity for your pet. There should be enough space for the airflow for your pet to breathe comfortably.

Pets require special handling. The airline needs to build and operate a facility where pets can rest comfortably while waiting for their flight or enroute to their final destination. Most of such facilities are open 24/7 to make sure that all pets receive the care they need. In addition, someone needs to safely load and unload your pet on the aircraft, then transfer them to a pet-friendly facility. It takes time, equipment and special training. 

Due to the safety concerns and difference in handling temperature, the airline is not able to transport other cargo such as dry ice or pharmaceuticals in the same space as pets. That means if your pet is traveling on the aircraft, the airline needs to honor your booking and refuse loading other cargo that helps to justify the cost of travel. That being said, even if your pet is on a smaller side – they actually occupy a large space. And as a matter of fact, volume weight is what is being taken into consideration when pricing air travel for pets. 

In addition, there’s a high chance that your pet relocation specialist needs to be an IATA, IPATA and ATA member. Members of each association need to make yearly financial contributions, maintain high industry standards and participate in on-going training. 

Lastly, traveling your pet internationally is not as simple as it may seem. There are a lot of components that are being involved such as obtaining correct certificates, managing logistics, government health documents endorsement, keeping up with everchanging entry requirements and many more. It might be hard to believe, but it takes your agent hours to make sure that everything goes according to the plan. 

The cost of a mistake is higher than the price of hiring an agent. A simple mistake like 1 wrong digit on the Microchip certificate or inappropriate product for ecto or endoparasitic treatment, can make your pet be ordered to quarantine, go through additional testing or even be sent back to the country of origin. Not only is it going to be expensive, but also extremely stressful on your pet. 

If your pet travels overseas, we’re only allowed to send dry food. Although, wet food is permitted if your pet is travelling within Canada.

We do not recommend the use of tranquilizers or sedatives due to the associated health risks. 

Gabapentin is sometimes considered as an option to help pets cope with the stress of relocation. It’s a medication that can have a calming effect and may reduce anxiety in pets. However, the decision to use Gabapentin for your pet’s relocation should be made in consultation with your veterinarian. They can assess your pet’s specific needs, health condition, and provide guidance on the appropriate dosage.

1. All original documents requested by your pet relocation specialist.

2. Bedding (cotton towels work best).

3. An article of clothing that smells familiar.

4. Medications & Food supplements (if applicable). 

5. Favorite dry food that will be sufficient for at least 2 meals.

6. No toys, please. Most airlines do not approve of it. 

7. Please do not send a leash, collar, and anything of value.

Yes, we provide all pet owners with a tracking number. When possible, we also update owners on how their pets are doing during transit. 

We require minimum 3 weeks notice for international relocations. However, it’s advisable to book as early as possible, especially if you’re moving to Australia, New Zealand, EU or UK. 

Documentation requirements vary by destination. Generally, you’ll need proof of vaccinations, a health certificate, and sometimes import permits. Our team will assist you in obtaining and organizing the necessary paperwork.

• Update vaccinations/ blood tests / treatments as per your relocation specialist’s instructions
• Acclimate your pet to the travel carrier
• Trim your pets’ nails. Shorter nails can prevent your pet’s paws from getting caught in the carrier’s mesh or door, ensuring a more comfortable and stress-free journey.
• Allow your pet to exercise and play before the journey to help them relax during travel.
• Pack comfort items, such as a familiar blanket or a piece of your clothing, to provide a sense of familiarity during the journey.
• If your pet is anxious, consider consulting your veterinarian about the use of some calming medications

For pets that are particularly sensitive to loud noises:

• Familiarize your pet with carrier sounds: Gradually introduce your pet to the sounds associated with the carrier, such as zippers and clicks, in a positive and calm environment. This helps desensitize them to carrier-related noises
• Play short airplane noise videos on YouTube at a very low volume. The goal is to make the experience subtle and non-threatening.
• While the sounds are playing, engage in positive activities with your pet, such as gentle play, petting, or offering treats. This associates the noise with positive experiences.
• Gradual Volume Increase: Over multiple sessions, gradually increase the volume of the airplane noise. Always monitor your pet’s behavior and comfort level. If your pet shows signs of stress, reduce the volume.
• Consistency is Key: Repeat these sessions regularly to help your pet become more accustomed to the sounds. Consistency is crucial in desensitizing your pet.