Expert Q&A with Relopet International: Behind the Scenes of Pet Relocation
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Meet the Expert: Cassandra from Relopet International
Meet Cassandra, the heart and logistics mind behind many of Relopet International seamless relocations. With a background as a veterinary assistant and a passion for animals, she found her perfect match in pet transportation. Her love for animals and expertise in logistics combine to provide stress-free, compassionate relocations for furry travelers.
What inspired you to specialize in pet transport and relocation?
I’ve always wanted to work with animals in one way or another. I even have a veterinary assistant degree! With my history of specializing in logistics, and my love of animals, pet transport and relocation just made sense to me.
What Pet Relocation Really Looks Like
Relocating a pet involves more than just booking a flight. Cassandra coordinates health checks, CFIA appointments, flight bookings, customs broker communication, and final check-in procedures. Each step is carefully timed and executed to meet the specific requirements of the destination country.
Walk us through the typical process of planning and executing a pet transportation.
There’s a lot that goes into it, and it depends on the destination for what exactly goes into planning and executing pet relocation. Generally, I will need to pre-fill health certificates for the pre-flight health check, book a CFIA appointment, book the flight and coordinate with customs brokers for clearance into the country they are traveling, coordinate with our representatives for the flight check-in, and ensure the flight is on track for the departure date.
Modes of Transport & Customization Based on Pet Needs
Relopet International offers customizable services based on each pet’s and owner’s situation. Whether it’s picking up a pet from home for boarding or delivering them straight to the airport, Cassandra ensures that every journey starts smoothly and aligns with the family’s travel schedule.
What are the different modes of pet transportation that Relopet International offers, and how are they chosen based on specific situations?
We offer collection from a residence and either have the pet boarded until their departure date or direct delivery to the airport for check-in, which one of our representatives will assist with. It depends on the owner's needs and if they are traveling before their pet is scheduled to depart.
The Essentials of Safe and Stress-Free Pet Travel
One of the most important factors? The crate. It must be IATA-compliant and spacious enough for the pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Relopet ensures that every crate setup meets these standards — because comfort is non-negotiable when it comes to your pet.
What logistical considerations are crucial in ensuring pets' safety and comfort during transportation?
We need to ensure the carrier the pet is traveling in is IATA compliant, as well as large enough for the pet's comfort and safety.
Overcoming Industry Challenges
Last-minute CFIA appointments and vaccine scheduling conflicts are just some of the hurdles Cassandra navigates regularly. She tackles these with flexible coordination, rapid communication, and creative problem-solving, ensuring that even tight timelines don’t compromise the pet’s travel.
What are some of the most common challenges you face in the pet transport industry, and how does Relopet International overcome them?
I would say one challenge would be trying to get a last-minute CFIA appointment because they book up quite fast. What I do in those situations is contact other locations for an appointment and coordinate with the owners to see what works best for them.
Another challenge is if the pet's rabies vaccine has lapsed and they need a booster; trying to coordinate with the owner's schedule and getting an appointment with the clinic in time for the 21-day waiting period before the pet can travel. Clear communication and quick action is always best.
Working Closely with Vets & Officials
Health and legal requirements vary widely by country. Cassandra works closely with veterinarians to complete health checks, authorize medication, and conduct breed-specific tests like BOAS. She also keeps detailed files by region to guarantee full compliance with entry regulations.
How do you handle health concerns, legal regulations, and anxiety-related issues for the pets during transportation?
For every pet relocation, there is a pre-flight health check that is done at the pet’s vet clinic. During this appointment, the pet is assessed for their ability to travel, and any medical concerns are addressed. The veterinarian doing the assessment will determine if the pet is fit to fly or not. If they are a snub-nosed breed, there is a BOAS test that is done in addition to the pre-flight health check to assess their breathing.
I provide the vet clinics with a medication authorization form for the pre-flight health check appointment in case the pet has any anxiety-related issues, and the doctor will determine if the pet needs to be given anti-anxiety meds for their flight.
Every region has its own regulations, and so there are separate files for each of them. We have carefully gone through each one to ensure our knowledge is up to date, so we can confidently provide everything necessary for a seamless relocation of pets.
Can you discuss your collaboration with veterinarians and authorities to ensure the health and well-being of the transported pets?
We are all in the business of keeping animals happy, healthy, and safe. We all work together to ensure the pets are up to date on their vaccinations and treatments, as well as any other tests that need to be done such as BOAS or titer tests.
Minimizing Stress for Pets and Their Humans
From favorite toys to familiar blankets, Cassandra coaches pet parents on how to ease travel anxiety. Anti-anxiety medications are only prescribed when necessary, and every recommendation is made with the pet’s well-being in mind.
Could you share some advice for pet owners to prepare their pets for a smooth relocation experience?
Try to prepare your pet for travel by introducing a positive experience with the carrier they will be using for their trip. Doing this will absolutely help minimize their anxiety. Ensuring their vaccinations are up to date before making travel arrangements is also advised.
What measures does Relopet International take to minimize stress and anxiety for the pets during transport?
We always try to make the pets as comfortable as possible by ensuring their owners provide them with adequate bedding, a piece of their clothing for comfort, and a small favourite toy that doesn’t make noise. For anxiety, their vet may prescribe them anti-anxiety medication for their trip. There are also calming sprays and treats the owners can provide their pets for travel.
International Logistics & Regional Nuances
Each destination has its quirks. The UK requires blue ink on documents. Australia demands seven months of prep if a rabies vaccine is overdue. Pets entering Australia or New Zealand face a 10-day quarantine. Relopet navigates these challenges expertly with precision planning.
What complexities are involved in international pet relocations, and how does Relopet International manage them effectively?
As I mentioned, there is a lot that goes into relocating pets. There are travel documents, import permits, required treatments, appointments, etc. We make sure there is enough time for each of these things, and work closely with the owners, vet clinics, and government entities to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible.
Trends & The Future of Pet Relocation
More people are traveling with pets, and Cassandra sees this trend only growing. By staying current with industry news and attending events like IPATA conferences, Relopet evolves alongside the industry and continues to lead with innovation.
How do you stay updated with evolving trends and innovations in the pet transport industry? In your opinion, how do you see the future of pet transportation evolving?
I keep up to date on the news and keep an open ear for anything that may come up, and also read industry publications. Dayana often attends industry events to stay in the know and evolve with the times. I see pet transportation getting way more popular than it already is! So many people are traveling, but I see a lot of them leaving their furbabies behind because they feel they can’t bring them with. It’s an unfortunate situation for sure, and I believe the more word gets out about pet travel, the more pets will be able to stay with their families.
Final Thoughts on Responsible Pet Travel
Pets are family. Responsible relocation means preparing in advance, maintaining vaccinations, and choosing partners who care deeply about animal welfare. Cassandra’s parting advice? “Give yourself time and work with professionals who know the process inside and out.”
To wrap up, what final thoughts would you like to share about the importance of responsible pet transport?
Our animals are our family members, and we all want the best for them. It’s so important to ensure they have the correct travel carrier, keep up to date on vaccinations, and make sure you have enough time to arrange for their relocation.
How to Contact Relopet International
If you are considering relocating your pet internationally and want a team you can trust, Relopet International is here for you! Contact us today and let us help you navigate your pet’s journey with confidence and care.
For media inquiries or collaboration opportunities, please contact Relopet International at [email protected] or call +1-604-774-2707.
