IPATA Conference 2025 in Bangkok: Key Updates, Global Trends & Relopet International’s Experience

What is IPATA, and why does it matter for pet relocation

The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) is a nonprofit trade association whose members are dedicated to the humane, safe, and professional transport of pets and other animals.

Reloper International at the IPATACon 2025 in Bangkok

The IPATA Conference 2025 in Bangkok brought together nearly 300 pet shippers, airlines, veterinarians, and government officials from around the world — and Relopet International was proud to be part of it.

Following our participation in the IPATA Conference 2024 in Budapest, this year’s summit delivered even bigger insights: new regulations, emerging global standards, and technological improvements shaping the future of international pet travel.

Below are the key developments every pet owner and industry partner should know.

Highlights from Bangkok: leadership, innovation, and global connection

The three-day educational program was filled with valuable opportunities — the latest information in the pet transport industry, expert lectures, and interactions with airlines, government officials, and agents from various countries. The conference offered:

Cutting-edge insights into Asia-Pacific pet travel dynamics
Hands-on sessions with airline, government, and industry suppliers
Networking with agents, transport providers, and regulatory bodies from across Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia

Keynote: Jonathan Low, CSP, ICF MCC – “Reimagine Leadership for Breakthrough Success in a Dynamic Pet Travel Industry”

One of the most memorable sessions of the conference was led by Jonathan Low, CSP, ICF MCC. His high-energy, well-received presentation challenged attendees to think differently about leadership in pet travel—how we adapt, inspire, and drive success in a constantly shifting global market.

As attendees, our Relopet team left energized and ready to implement new ideas around service quality, partner alignment, and client experience.

Networking and global agent meet-ups

A major value of the conference was connecting face-to-face with many of the partner pet agents we rely on around the world—agents who help make relocations possible, safe, and smooth. These meetings strengthen our global network, streamline coordination, and ultimately benefit you, the pet-owner.

Major Pet Travel Updates from IPATACon 2025

This year marked a major milestone as IPATA unveiled a set of updated global standards — beginning with new rules from Great Britain and India.

1. Significant Pet Travel Standards Introduced in 2025

Revised Rabies Vaccine Requirements for Travel to Great Britain

Great Britain updated how rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats must be validated.
Key changes include:

A minimum 21-day waiting period after the primary rabies vaccination.
If the vaccine manufacturer requires a longer immunity-acquisition period, that waiting period becomes mandatory.
If no immunity data is provided, the default 21 days applies.
The goal: reduce disease risk while standardizing international entry practices.

India’s Updated Administrative Requirements

India reinforced strict import protocols:

DGFT Import Authorization License: average processing time remains 8 weeks.
Mandatory Government Quarantine: 15–30 days for all commercially imported pets.
Guidance from HappyLocate emphasized the importance of accurate documentation and early planning to avoid delays.

2. Airline Safety Innovations & Smart Tracking Technology

Airlines revealed new digital advances that will reshape pet travel safety:

Live Smart Tracking: RFID + GPS hybrid systems for real-time pet monitoring.
Temperature-Controlled Holding Areas for improved comfort.
Automated Ground Staff Inventory Systems
Digital Document Verification for faster processing and fewer errors.

These technologies will especially benefit long-haul relocations — including those arranged by Relopet International.

3. Global Networking & Industry Collaboration

Conversations with partners revealed essential trends:

Many IPATA members hold 15+ years of experience
Increasing demand for tech-enabled visibility
Growing collaborations for complex destinations (Australia, NZ, Asia, etc.)
A unified commitment to humane, welfare-focused transport

Collaboration remains one of the strongest pillars of IPATA’s success.

Emerging Developments Shaping the Future of Pet Travel

IPATACon 2025 revealed several major long-term industry shifts:

A. Increasing Administrative Complexity

Frequent regulatory changes create the need for highly specialized expertise — an area Relopet continues to excel in.

B. Proposed Global Framework for Crate Training

IPATA is developing a standardized training protocol + video guidance, recognizing crate training as a major welfare factor.

C. Anxiety & Stress Reduction Research

Veterinary experts shared progress on new calming aids; handling and desensitization protocols; transport-preparation techniques.

D. Cargo Hold Safety

A dedicated session debunked myths, confirming that modern cargo holds are safe, climate-controlled, and monitored.

F. Temperature-Based Travel Restrictions

A push for harmonized heat/cold safety rules, especially for brachycephalic breeds.

G. Baggage Scanning Safety Protocols

New recommendations for safe x-ray and security screening procedures for animals.

Regulatory Changes to Watch in 2025–2026

The global community is preparing for several upcoming shifts:

CDC Dog Importation Final Rule
Safe Dog Import Act
Mandatory documentation checks for all incoming pets
Possible restrictions on pets traveling in-cabin
Updated rules for importing rescue animals

Relopet International will continue monitoring these changes to keep clients fully informed.

What’s Next? Future IPATA Conferences

The upcoming IPATA Global Conference 2026 was officially announced to be held in Vancouver, Canada. We can’t wait to meet everyone in our country.

Thank You, IPATA

We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) and all its hosts, speakers, sponsors, and participants for organising and facilitating the 2025 Conference in Bangkok.

Your dedication to ethics, animal welfare, and professional excellence helps raise the standard of pet relocation worldwide.

Looking forward to the next events!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pet Relocation Trends 2025

What does IPATA stand for?

It stands for the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association.

When and where was IPATA’s 2024 conference?

The 2024 annual IPATA conference was held in Budapest, Hungary. And Relopet International was there – read about it on our blog.

Are animal deaths during air cargo common?

No — they are relatively rare, though high-profile cases do occur. Still, every incident motivates stricter safety measures. Reuters

👉 Want to learn more about how we can help with your pet’s journey? Request an estimate today.

What topics are typically covered at an IPATA conference?

Conferences cover a range of topics, including pet welfare in transport, airline cargo policies, government regulation updates, global agent networking, disaster preparedness, social media and marketing strategies for pet shipping companies, and leadership in the pet relocation industry.

Why should pet owners care that their relocation adviser attends IPATA conferences?

Because it signals commitment to global standards, access to a wide network of trusted agents and airlines, and staying current on evolving rules and best practices—benefits that translate into safer, smoother relocations for your pet.

Contact Relopet International

For seamless and stress-free pet transportation services, rely on Relopet International. We understand the importance of your pet’s safety and comfort, and our expertise ensures a smooth travel experience for both you and your furry companion. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

Disclaimer: The information that is provided in this article should not be used as a sole guide for a pet relocation. Relopet International urges you to consult government authorities in the country of origin and destination about the current import/export regulations. Relopet International will not accept any responsibility or liability for the damage resulting from the use of information that is provided in the articles posted on its blog.