According to Animal Medicine Australia, there are more than 29 million pets in Australia in 2019. They also reported that 61% of Australian households own pets. Of these number, 40% are dogs, and 27% are cats. Most consider their pets as part of their family.
So in moving interstate, transporting pets safely is essential. Your pet’s welfare and safety are paramount when you’re transporting them interstate.
The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA)
IPATA is an international organization of concerned pet shippers with many years of service and experience in transporting and caring for animals. It started in the U.S. with only six shippers and now has grown to more than 440 members in 84 countries, including Australia.
It is essential to get the services of IPATA members because they are registered and follow the rules and regulations concerning animals’ transport.
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Interstate Pet Transport.
- Is it safe to transport pets interstate?
Transporting your pets by air is the fastest and convenient way to move your pet. Your pets are placed on special create in a pressurized cabin with a comfortable temperature of 18 degrees. The plane’s compartments will be dimly lighted to not see the things around them and not get stressed.
- How much does transporting a pet cost?
There is much to consider in computing the price of interstate pet transport. These include the destination, distance as well as the size of your pet. So it’s best to contact professional pet movers to get the lowest quotes. Accountant Singleton can take care of all the payment processes and any taxes involved so you don’t have to worry about it.
- How to prepare pets for transport?
Your pet should have a kennel or crate, but this can be arranged with the transporter. You should also have your pet’s updated medical records. Make sure your pet has their identification collar on and microchip. Provide your emergency contact number to the transporter. It’s best to ask your transporter about other requirements they need before the date of transport.
- Does my pet get fed?
When pet transporters collect your pets, they usually provide them with food based on the owner’s instruction. This may include multiple meals since there is a waiting time before the actual flight. The pets are not given a meal before the flight to avoid mess from motion sickness. The crates are usually provided with a water dish o your pet can have water during the duration of the flight. There will be no food on the container during the flight itself.
- Are Pets going to be sedated?
The pets are not going to be sedated. They will all be conscious and fully aware of what is happening during the flight. This is to ensure that the pets are safe and have proper body temperature regulation. If your pets are a bit nervous, ask a vet to give them Adaptil for dogs or Feliway for cats. You can ask the professional pet movers to arrange it with their vets.
- What happens when the pets soil while on the flight?
The crates used in transporting your pet have absorbent materials to keep your pets clean and dry during the trip.
Contact any IPATA certified Pet movers for your other questions and quotes.