Pet Travel Experts Share Tips for Responsible Pet Owners Month
February 2, 2016 — The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association, the nonprofit association dedicated to the care and welfare of pets and animals during transport, is commemorating Responsible Pet Owners Month by offering tips on how to prepare your pet for travel.
Over 2 million pets and other live animals are transported by air every year in the United States. More than 4 million worldwide, according to IPATA.
Whether traveling a short distance or across the world, it has never been more safe to take your pet with you. Responsible pet owners should:
- Acclimate your pet to the kennel in which it will be transported.
- Not give your pet solid food in the six hours prior to the flight, although a moderate amount of water and a walk before and after the flight are advised.
- Never sedate your pet!
- Write your name, address and phone number on the kennel, and make sure your pet is wearing a tag with the same information.
- Consider hiring a professional pet shipper so your pet has a stress free trip, which will make your travel a little easier. You can find a pet shipper through IPATA.
Over 2 million pets are transported by air every year in the United States. More than 4 million worldwide.
Tip from Dr. David Landers, DVM, AirVets Pet Relocation:
Pet owners should work directly with a professional pet shipper regarding health certificates. From the United States, health certificates for domestic travel, Mexico and Canada can be done up to the day of the move. For most international destinations, 7 days before travel is a good time to do health certificates to accommodate endorsement times and changes in travel schedules. However, this varies by country and some must be done within a few days. Many countries require a lot of preparation before a health certificate can be written that may take up to 6 or 7 months, so pet owners should consult with a pet relocation company for advice on timelines.
"Your pet is a member of the family and you want to make sure they have a safe, comfortable travel experience,” says IPATA President Derek Huntington. “That’s our top priority as well!”
About IPATA
The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) is a non-profit, worldwide trade association for animal handlers, pet moving providers, kennel operators, veterinarians and others who are dedicated to the care and welfare of pets and animals during transport. The organization was founded in 1979. It began with six founding members and now has more than 350 members in over 80 countries. IPATA serves its members, the pet transport industry, and the public at large. For more information, or to find a professional pet shipper, visit www.ipata.org.
Media Contact:
Kim Cunningham
IPATA Communication Director
Phone: +1 (781) 223-4042
e-mail:
