Moving abroad is exciting, but when you’re relocating with a pet, the process can quickly feel overwhelming. Every country has its own rules, paperwork, and timelines, and even a small mistake can delay your pet’s journey. Whether you’re moving across the ocean or just to another continent, it’s important to understand what’s involved long before you book a flight.
Why Pet Relocation Is So Complex
International pet travel isn’t as simple as buying an airline ticket. Each destination has strict entry requirements designed to protect local animal health and agriculture. Some countries require rabies titer tests that must be completed months in advance, while others have mandatory quarantine periods or need government-issued import permits before your pet can even board the plane.
It’s not uncommon for travelers to spend weeks just gathering veterinary records, confirming microchip compatibility, and aligning vaccination schedules with the destination’s timing rules. Certain breeds and sizes may also face airline restrictions or need specialized travel kennels that meet international standards for ventilation, construction, and labeling.
Common Hurdles for Pet Owners
Many pet owners are surprised by how many steps are required between a vet visit and arrival day. The list often includes microchipping, rabies and booster vaccinations, parasite treatments, government endorsements, and travel crate preparation. Some pets need blood tests months before departure, and most airlines require final health certificates within a narrow window before travel.
Even if your pet is healthy, missing a single document can lead to delays, quarantine holds, or denied entry. That’s why careful planning—and knowing where to start—makes all the difference.
How Starwood Pet Travel Simplifies the Process
At Starwood, we specialize in managing the logistics so you don’t have to. Our team coordinates with your veterinarian, reviews paperwork, arranges import permits, books flights, and ensures every document is in order for customs clearance. We also provide real-time updates throughout the journey so you can travel with confidence.
Free Resource: The Complete Pet Relocation Checklist
To help you stay organized, we’ve created a free Pet Relocation Checklist that outlines each major requirement in one convenient guide. It covers essential details on documentation, kennels, vaccinations, import permits, quarantine, and more—all in a step-by-step format you can follow before, during, and after travel.
📥 Download the Pet Relocation Checklist
Whether you’re moving for work, family, or a new adventure, preparing early will make the process smoother for both you and your pet. With the right information and expert guidance, your furry family member will arrive safely and ready to settle into their new home.