Dog Transport
Dog And Puppy Transport Experts
At Dogtainers, we’re dog transport experts. We relocate tens of thousands of dogs domestically and internationally every year. Whether your dog is an energetic puppy, calm senior citizen, or anything in between, we can move them anywhere in Australia or abroad.
Dogtainers Can Take Care Of:
- Overall management of your pet’s relocation
- Advice and schedules for pre-import blood tests and vaccinations
- Endorsements and vet checks with overseas animal health authorities
- Scheduling flights
- Crate hire or purchase
- Airport drop off
- Airport collection
- Customs clearance, if required
- Quarantine reservations, if required
- Quarantine management
Interstate Dog Transport
We provide both air transport for dogs and road transport for dogs to everywhere in Australia. Our most popular destinations include:
- Dog Transport NSW
- Dog Transport QLD
- Dog Transport VIC
International Dog Transport
We can relocate dogs to anywhere in the world. We work with dog-friendly airlines and hundreds of local agents in almost every country on Earth to ensure we can get your pet where they need to go.
Some of our most popular international locations include:
Transporting ‘Brachy’ or Snub-nosed Dog Breeds
Air Transport For Brachy Breeds
Most airlines choose not to fly brachy breeds because they are more likely toexperience issues when flying. However, some airlines, such as Qantas, arebrachy-breed friendly.
Road Transport For Brachy Breeds
Road transport is a safe alternative for snub-nosedbreeds, and we can your dog to anywhere in Australia.
Transporting Large Dog Breeds
Extra large dogs may not be able to fly. Although it depends on the airline, most have an upper limit of 42kgs for dogs. At Dogtainers, our motto is Any Animal, Anywhere, Anytime. If we can transport a cassowary, we can transport your big boy or girl. We can even build them a custom crate.
Travelling with Puppies
Young puppies generally don’t handle long periods of travel well. They can have difficulty eating, sleeping, and will cry and whine for their mothers. For this reason, we recommend waiting until your puppy is independent before taking them on a trip. However, we understand that sometimes this isn’t possible.
If your puppy is older than 8 weeks old, you can fill out our free, no-obligation quote to get specific travel information tailored to you.
If your puppy is younger than 8 weeks, you can contact us on 1300 13 52 52 and we can organise a pet transit plan for when they’re old enough to travel.
Minimum Age For Dogs On Flights
Airlines have their own rules about minimum puppy ages for air travel, but it’s generally 8 weeks of age for domestic travel and 12 or 15 weeks for international travel.
Dogtainers Minimum Age For Puppy Travel
For the health and wellbeing of your puppy, we won’t transport them if they’re under 8 weeks of age. If they’re under 12 weeks of age, we require a veterinary certificate stating your pup is fit enough to travel.
Importing Dogs to Australia
When To Start Preparing Your Pet For Their Trip To Australia
How early you start preparing your dog for transport depends on which country you’ll be sending them from. Countries fit into one of three categories, with one having the least stringent rules and three having the most.
The Australian government recommends starting preparations at least 7 months ahead of export for category 3 and non-approved countries.
For category 2 countries, which do not require rabies preparations, they recommend starting the process at least two to three months before the intended date of export.
Dog Quarantine in Melbourne
All dogs coming into Australia must arrive directly into Melbourne International Airport where they will be transferred to the post entry quarantine facility. They cannot land in another Australian airport and travel to Melbourne on an Australian domestic flight.
Dog Transport Process
Get a Quote
The process of transporting your dog can be confusing at times, but we’re here to make it simple. The first step with any pet transport is to get a quote, as this will be the basis of your pet transport plan. At Dogtainers, our quotes are free and no-obligation.
Get a Crate
For your transit plan, we’ll need to know your crate arrangements. You have the option of supplying your own travel-appropriate crate or buying/hiring one of Dogtainers’ IPATA-approved travel crates.
Road or Air Travel
We’ll also need to know whether you’d prefer road transport or air transportfor your pet. Not sure which would be better? We can help advise you on what’s most appropriate for your situation, taking into account distance, availability, and urgency of travel.
Vet Checks and Paperwork
After this, you’ll need to ensure their vet checks, vaccines, and import documents are all in order. Not sure what’s required? Dogtainers will help guide you along each step of the way to ensure there are no last minute surprises.
Pick-up and Drop-Off
When your dog’s transport date has arrived, we have a variety of options for their pick-up and drop-off. Our most basic option is our airport-to-airport service, where our team of dog movers will arrange your pet’s transport from one airport to another, and you collect your pet from there.
Door-to-Door Service
We also offer a full door-to-door service, where our dog couriers will collect your pet from your residence in one of our climate controlled vans, and take them to boarding or directly to the airport depending on the flight schedule. After their flight, they will be collected once again and delivered to their destination. You don’t need to lift a finger.
Get in Touch
Not what you had in mind? We can create a customised pet travel solution for you, just get in touch at 1300 13 52 52 or fill in our online quote form.
What Dog Transport Is Like
Air Travel
Pets travel in a temperature controlled environment set to approximately 18 degrees. The compartment is pressurised like the passenger cabin and is dimly lit. With the gentle hum of the aircraft, pets often spend the time dozing before reaching their destination. All crates are secured with zip ties to ensure their safety. Their crates are also fitted with water so the dogs can remain hydrated during travel. For longer flights, pets are checked on during layovers to ensure they’re safe and comfortable.
Road Travel
All Dogtainer vehicles are temperature-controlled and designed to safely stow travel crates. To ensure all dogs are doing well, we check on them every two hours to make sure they’re healthy, hydrated, and their spirits are high. We recommend you pack a small, soft toy or your pet’s favourite blanket with them for the trip, as the familiar scent can give them a sense of security.
Keeping Your Dog Comfortable in the Crate
Your pet’s crate is one of the single most important elements of ensuring they will travel safely and comfortably. A crate that is too small for them will result in your pet being uncomfortable throughout the journey. A crate that is too big for them can cause problems, particularly if there is turbulence in the air or on the road. Sizing your pet accurately and getting them an appropriately sized crate can help make your pet feel more secure.
Pet Calming Products
Adaptil’s pet calming collar can also be helpful for keeping your pet relaxed while travelling. A blanket or other cushioning is also recommended for your dog’s comfort. This could be an old favourite of theirs or deluxe vet bedding designed specifically to absorb moisture and urine inside travel crates.
FAQs About Dog Transport
How Much Does It Cost To Fly A Dog?
The cost of flying a dog varies depending on several factors, including the route, the dog’s size and breed, and the airline. Domestic flights within Australia for a small dog can cost between $80-$200, while larger dogs can cost between $300-$500. The cost of an international flight can range from $500 to $3000 or more, depending on the destination, airline, and other factors. It is important to note, however, that these are only estimates, and the final cost will depend on individual circumstances. It is best to contact for a personalised quote based on your pet’s requirements and travel plans.
What Is The Best Way To Transport A Dog?
The best way to transport a dog is determined by where you are going to and from. Air travel is the quickest and most efficient mode of pet transportation. When travelling locally, however, road transportation is usually the best option.
If you are planning to transport your pet internationally or interstate by air, we can provide the necessary crates, handling, and documentation for air travel. It is important to ensure that our pet is comfortable and safe while being transported and that all requirements are met.
How Do I Prepare My Dog For A Flight?
Best to ensure your pets are as calm as possible in their upcoming transport. Given animals require to be created, it helps if they have prior crate training experience. If pets experience high levels of stress, it’s best to try Adaptil collars or Feliway spray to assist with stress before, during, and after transport. The night before transport it is best to have your pets secured within the house so there are no issues on the day (such as cats disappearing). On the day of transport ensure they’ve had plenty of time to go to the bathroom and have fasted for at least 8 hours prior to travel.
What Are The Requirements For Transporting A Dog On A Plane?
Requirements for transporting a dog on a plane will depend on its breed and location of transport. Majority of the time they are only required to be fit and healthy. Some locations may require permits, certificates, or veterinary requirements for entry.
What Kind Of Paperwork Do I Need To Bring When Travelling With My Dog?
Generally, you will only require your photo ID and Airway Bill number, but depending on your destination you may be required to show permits, certificates or veterinary paperwork at the airport.
Are There Any Recommended Crate Sizes For Transporting A Dog By Car Or Plane?
There are very strict IPATA requirements around the size of transport carriers. Pets need to fit comfortably within the crates, allowing 5 cm from the top of their head to the top of the crate, be able to lay down comfortably without their paws being squished against the crate and be able to turn around comfortably without restrictions.
Plan your pet’s trip the right way
With the care and support they need