Are Pets Still Flying During the Pandemic?

The COVID-19 pandemic has put a lot of plans on hold over the last two years. Big international moves, holidays and work opportunities have all gone by the wayside. But what about international pet transport? Are our cats and dogs still jet setting around the world?

Has COVID-19 put a stop to international pet transport?

The simple answer is no. Humans are still making big, international moves and, while slightly more difficult, we’re still even taking those international vacations. Of course, us humans still make those international moves means our pets need to as well.

Much like the rest of the industry, international pet transport has taken a few hits. With reduced capacities on flights and reduced flights generally, it has meant less spots for our furry friends on each plane and a greater demand for international pet travel through COVID-19.

How has international travel changed for our pets?

The pandemic has completely transformed how humans travel internationally. Masks, vaccines, and mandatory quarantine periods have become the standard for us. 

Your pets don’t need to get any additional vaccinations or quarantine any differently to before and they won’t need to sport a mask. There have been some changes to how things used to be done though.

Delays

With reduced flight capacities and reduced flights altogether, there have been some delays in getting pets on planes. 

The actual flight paths have been delayed for long-haul international pet transport too, with additional comfort stops being added to some routes.

Pssst. If you’re looking for international pet transport and are finding these delays stressful, there’s options available to you! 

We can accommodate your pet while we wait to get them on the next available flight to you. Our team ensures the best health, comfort, and safety for each and every pet. 

Picking your pet up

Depending on the current situation with COVID-19 in your pet’s destination city, you may have to be mindful picking them up. Some countries are simply enforcing social distancing rules for these pick ups whereas others, like Auckland, are asking pet owners to engage a pet travel agent to collect their pet on their behalf.

 

Our tips for international pet transport during the pandemic

Get your pet booked in first

If your pet’s travel is quite dependent on yours, then it’s a good idea to wait for confirmation of their spot on a plane before booking your own.

This way, you can ensure you’ll be there to collect them. 

Consider their quarantine period (and yours)

Your pet may have to stay in their own quarantine facility on arrival in their new destination. Quarantine periods vary, depending on the country. Some countries specify a four-day quarantine period, others (and most commonly) a 10-day period, and in Iceland, a four-week period is required.

The following countries are just some of the destinations requiring pets to quarantine: 

You’ll also need to consider whether you’ll need to quarantine. Many countries who’ve reached their vaccination targets have already begun waiving these quarantine restrictions, however, it’s good to check ahead of time!

As we slowly emerge from the pandemic, there’s been some wholesome reunions

As we slowly but surely emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, flights are opening up, flight capacity is building, and international vacays and those big bold international moves are back on. How exciting!!

The reopening of the world has brought on a slew of wholesome reunions between our furry friends and their humans. 

Here are some of our favourite recent reunions.