International Travel · Worldwide

International pet relocation from New Zealand to anywhere in the world

Exporting a pet overseas involves complex documentation, strict veterinary timelines, and trusted partners at the destination. As active international breeders ourselves, we know every step of the process - and we manage it all for you.

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Why Choose Star Pet Travel

International expertise built from personal experience

First-Hand International Experience

As active breeders importing Labradors and Lagotto Romagnolo from Australia and Europe, Betty and Desiree navigate complex international requirements themselves - not just for clients, but for their own dogs.

Country-Specific Veterinary Timelines

Every destination has different requirements: rabies vaccinations, titre tests (RNATT), parasite treatments, and health certificates. We provide a precise, step-by-step veterinary plan for your destination.

Full Documentation Management

Import permits, export health certificates, rabies titre tests, microchipping compliance, and government endorsement - we manage every document and ensure nothing delays your pet's journey.

Worldwide Trusted Partner Network

We work with trusted pet transport agents and receiving agents in destinations around the world - ensuring seamless handoffs and proper care throughout the journey, wherever it ends.

Climate-Controlled Cargo Travel

Your pet travels in the live-animal cargo hold - pressurised, temperature-controlled (18–22°C), and separate from passenger baggage. Flight crew are notified that animals are on board.

Flight Tracking & Air Waybill

You receive your pet's Air Waybill (AWB) number and flight details so you can track their journey via the airline's cargo tracking system from departure to arrival.

What's Included

Everything taken care of, end to end

  • Country-specific veterinary treatment plan and timeline
  • Rabies vaccination and titre test coordination where required
  • Import permit applications and government document endorsement
  • Export health certificate coordination
  • Airline cargo booking and routing optimisation
  • IATA-approved travel crates correctly sized for your pet
  • Air Waybill and cargo tracking details
  • Receiving agent coordination at the destination
  • Pre-flight boarding at Glenstar Kennels when required
  • Post-arrival guidance and collection instructions

How It Works

A step-by-step approach to international pet travel

  1. 1

    Early consultation

    We discuss your destination, pet details, and travel timeline. Many countries have 3–6 month preparation windows - starting early is essential.

  2. 2

    Destination research & requirements

    We research the exact import conditions for your destination country: vaccinations, titre tests, treatments, microchipping, and permit requirements.

  3. 3

    Veterinary treatment plan

    We provide your vet with a detailed, timed checklist. Rabies vaccinations, titre tests, parasite treatments, and health certificates all have specific timing requirements.

  4. 4

    Documentation & permits

    We apply for import permits, manage health certificate wording, arrange government endorsement, and verify all paperwork before travel.

  5. 5

    Crate preparation & flight booking

    We confirm the correct IATA crate, book airline cargo space, and coordinate logistics at origin and destination - including any transit points.

  6. 6

    Departure & cargo check-in

    Your pet is checked in by our approved team. You receive the Air Waybill number so you can track the journey online via the airline's cargo system.

  7. 7

    Arrival & collection

    Our receiving agent or your nominated contact collects your pet at the destination. We provide full collection instructions, including what to expect at customs.

Travel Requirements

What your pet needs for international travel

  • Microchip implanted before any vaccinations are given
  • Rabies vaccination required for most destinations (not NZ↔Australia)
  • Rabies titre test (RNATT) required for some destinations - results can take 30+ days
  • Parasite treatments completed within destination-specific timeframes
  • Government-endorsed export health certificate
  • Import permit from destination country (where required)
  • IATA-approved, solid-sided travel crate
  • Sedation is not permitted under any circumstances
  • Pets should not be fed within 6–8 hours of departure to reduce nausea

International requirements vary significantly by destination. Start planning as early as possible - some countries require titre tests that have a 30+ day result window, and the overall process can take 3–6 months.

Got Questions?

International Pet Transport - FAQ

Can I be on the same flight as my pet?
From New Zealand, all pets must travel as cargo, even if you are on the same aircraft. During your consultation, we discuss routing and timing options that best align with your own travel plans.
Can my pet fly in the cabin with me?
Pets cannot travel in the cabin on flights departing New Zealand. The only exception is for Registered Service Dogs, where owners may apply directly to the airline for special dispensation. Airlines have strict requirements and approval is not guaranteed.
Where does my pet travel in the aircraft?
Pets travel in the live-animal cargo hold, which is pressurised, temperature-controlled (18–22°C), and separate from passenger baggage. The flight crew are notified that animals are on board.
Should I sedate my pet for the flight?
No - sedation is not permitted for air travel. Sedatives can reduce heart rate, lower body temperature, affect breathing, and prevent safe bracing during take-off and landing. Star Pet Travel will not transport sedated pets, and airlines may refuse acceptance if sedation is suspected. Safe calming alternatives are available - we recommend discussing options with your vet.
Does my pet have access to food and water during the flight?
To reduce nausea and the chance of soiling the crate, pets are not fed within 6–8 hours of departure. Their water dish will be filled before departure and checked and refilled at any transit point.
Can I track my pet's journey?
Yes. You will receive your pet's Air Waybill (AWB) number and flight details. You can track your pet via the airline's Cargo/Freight website under 'Track My Cargo'. Some airlines allow approved tracking devices on crates, but this is at your own risk as airline staff may remove them during handling or security checks.
What vaccinations are required for international travel?
For New Zealand ↔ Australia, no vaccinations are required, though we recommend your pet is up to date with core vaccinations. For most other countries, strict protocols apply which may include rabies vaccination, rabies titre testing (RNATT), and parasite treatments. We provide a country-specific veterinary timeline for your destination.
Can my pet travel with medication?
Yes - but medication must be clearly labelled with your pet's name and dosage. Only essential medication for the trip and the first 72 hours after arrival should be included. Please discuss any ongoing medication needs with us during your consultation.

Still have questions? Get in touch - we're happy to help.

Ready to move your pet internationally?

Get in touch and we'll map out exactly what your pet needs for their destination. We'll guide you through every step from your first consultation to safe arrival.

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Or call 027 273 1049