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Welcome to Pet Travel - Information & Services for Traveling Pets

For pet owners who are traveling with their pets, pet passports.

Pet import regulations for over 220 countries.

Airline Pet Policies

Live animal in-cabin, checked baggage & cargo services for over 150 airlines.

Private Jet Charter

Fly with your best friend beside you anywhere you need to go on your schedule.

For pet owners who are not traveling with their pets

Get a free transport quote.

Let us know how we can help. No obligation.

Air Transport

Safe and Comfortable Transport by Air

Ground Transport

Private and Shared Transport - All 48 US States

For all pet owners - More Info & Must-Haves

Products for travel.

Huge Clearance Sale on carriers, crates & accessories!

Pet Travel Information

Everything you need to know about pet travel.

Have questions?

Take a look at frequently asked questions.

Start here to prepare your pet for travel.

Where do I start? Checklist for pet travelers Keeping your pet safe in the cargo hold Airline Compliant Pet Crate Requirements Tips for Auto Pet Travel

Pet Travel Blog

Training a Dog to Travel Risks of Traveling with a Snub-Nosed Dog Why Microchip your Pet? Is your Pet's Crate IATA Compliant? How to Clear Airport Security with a Pet Pet Passport - What is it? 13 Things to Pack When Traveling with Your Cat

Stories from some of our global pet travelers

pet travel customer experiences

See Our Reviews:

Are you planning a move or vacation in the coming months?

We can help! Let us transport your pet for you. Relocating is stressful enough. Whether planning an international or domestic move in the lower 48, we can offer a variety of services to safely and comfortably get your pet wherever it needs to go.

Pet Travel Transport offers international relocations, private jet charters and ground transports for all types of pets. We have been serving pet owners for over 20 years and we're ready to help you!

Beware of Pet Scams!

Scammers use our logo and say they are using our company to ship pets. Email us and ask! PetTravel.com does not transport pets. PetTravelTransport.com is our shipping company. How to spot a pet scam .

Read the stories of some of our global pet travelers ...

Pet Express - The Pet Travel People

Our team cares for your pet as much as you do.

From our Pet Transport Services team, who specialize in making all the travel arrangements for your pet, to our Pet Handlers, who care for your pet during the travel process – we all love your furry family member !

Get a pet travel quote  

Why choose pet express for your international pet transport service, caring team.

Caring for your pets is our job, and we put the welfare of your animals above all else, always. Pet safety is always our top priority. But we also care for you. We’re here to answer your questions, support your decisions and make sure you feel comfortable and confident in our pet shipping service at all times.

Family-Owned & Operated

We’re a family – owned and operated company, and we take that family approach into our care for you and your pet’s journey. When you work with us, you and your furry friends are family.

Highly Knowledgeable

Whether it’s juggling veterinary protocols, understanding the quarantine requirements of countries worldwide, or ensuring your pet has access to food and water while they travel, we have the information you need. We make the entire pet shipping experience hassle-free and are dedicated to transporting your family safely right to your front door. 

Solutions-Focused

We find solutions, not problems. Our pet shipping services are comprehensive and suitable for any big trip. We’ve transported pregnant pets, handled breed restrictions, dealt with cancelled flights and managed it all through a global pandemic. We have a ‘make it happen’ attitude because we know how important your pets are to you.

Industry Experts

International pet transportation is constantly changing, even more so now. We keep abreast of all the most recent regulations, airline protocols and individual country requirements to ensure your pet arrives at its destination happy and well.

Caring Partners

We wouldn’t leave your pet transport needs with anyone who wasn’t as caring and supportive as we are ourselves. We’ve chosen to work with only the best industry partners, such as Canine Companions for Independence.

We are the pet transport people.

Since 1978, our pet transportation business has been trusted by families to safely relocate their pets all over the world.  We are a family-owned and operated business that believes that the pets who move with us are very special, and so are our values: we love pets, we are the experts in pet transport, we are genuine when it comes to our knowledge and care, and we strive to exceed expectations.

How pet transport services work

Pet Express can take care of the entire process and provide a pet shipping service that is stress free – for both owners and pets!

Book a Travel Crate

We can provide the correct size crate to keep your pet safe & happy.

Get Pet Itinerary

A broken down itinerary of your pet’s travel and shipping information.

Pet Fit to Fly

Your pet is given the all clear by one of our partner vets to take off.

Time to Fly

We take care of pickup, accommodation and transport to your destination.

Wherever Your Pet Needs to Go, We’ll Get Them There

Moving your beloved pets can be emotional and confusing, especially when every country has their own set of rules and regulations. We transport pets cross country or anywhere in the world. And whether they’re going to Sydney, Australia, Florida, USA, or London, UK, we always ensure the process is smooth and seamless for both you and your multiple pets, no matter where you need them to go.

hawaii

United Kingdom

australia

New Zealand

ireland

Is it safe for pets to fly?

Air travel is as safe for pets as it is for people. Airlines have staff that are trained in pet shipping and who will care for your beloved pet on their journey. And, of course, we take care of everything to ensure your pet has a happy and safe journey.

Where does my pet travel on the plane?

Where can i get a strong, comfortable travel crate, how much will it cost to relocate my pet, will my pet have to stay in quarantine, what we’re talking about on the blog.

Our entire team are pet owners as well as pet relocation specialists . So, when we say that we live and breathe pet relocation, we really mean it.

On the blog, we write about location relocation requirements, how to keep your pet healthy and happy during their pet transport service and everything in between. Check it out.

Read Our Most Popular Blogs

animal travel agent

The Specialists in Cat and Dog Transport Services

Experience makes all the difference when taking part in dog or cat shipping. International destinations (and Hawaii) have rules and restrictions that must be adhered to. Using our experienced pet transport service knowledge of dog and cat breeds and sizes, airline restrictions and direct routing (even through COVID changes), we make sure your pet arrives happy and well at their new home. We’ll even transport them right to your front door.

PetRelocation Home

Take your friend wherever life takes you.

U.S. and International Pet Transport Services

What sets us apart.

Years of experience

5-star reviews on Facebook

Total pets moved

Pet-loving team members

Destination countries

How We Move Pets

We're reimagining the way we move pets!

Our pet transport process, partners, and expert employees guarantee your pet will be treated as a best friend should, every step of the way, no matter the distance.

We know that every pet is different, and the regulations that affect pet travel are always changing. Sure, you could find other ways to move your pet, but if they could choose a pet shipping company, they’d choose us.

Learn more about our pet transportation services!

Where We Ship Pets

As an international pet transportation company, we’ve helped safely deliver pets across the globe. Learn more about how our animal transportation services vary by country, from important requirements, to timelines, to understanding what’s needed to transport your pet internationally. Understanding all of the above can help the process go more smoothly.

Browse some of the most popular long-distance destinations we ship to.

Different Pets, Different Paths

There’s no one-size-fits-all pet transport solution. Different animals require different travel needs, as do individual pets. We have the expertise to know how to ship pets across the globe while giving pet owners the peace of mind their furry family member is safe and well taken care of.

Learn more about how we handle pet transportation services for dogs and cats.

Dog Transport Services

Cat transport service, other animals & pets.

Need to move a more exotic pet? We've seen it all and can help with that! From your feathered friends to your scaly companions, we can help you find the best pet transportation service for your exotic pet.

Please complete this form , and we'll do our best to assist you.

United Kingdom

New zealand, other destinations.

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PetRelocation Travel Tails

If this is your first time moving with a pet, you’re probably worried about all the unknowns. Our past clients remember the feeling, so they love sharing their stories of moves we’ve walked them through—even some very complicated moves—and how sweet it was to reunite with their pets on the other side.

Moving Across the Pond with a Dog: Vinny’s Story

“PetRelocation made the insane process of moving our animals breeze! Thank you!”

A Surprisingly Complicated Move: Taking Your Pets to Hawaii

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Navigating Moves During a Pandemic: Thunder’s Story

Pet move of the month: metgot moves to japan, from our blog.

Travel with your pet like a pro! We know pet transport services are constantly changing. Whether you’re traveling with one or multiple pets, we offer advice that can help make your transition as smooth as possible.

Browse the blog to stay on top of regulation changes and learn expert tips to keep your pet safe, comfortable, and happy while traveling. Gain more insight into our pet transportation services so you have peace of mind your pet is taken care of during their journey.

Moving Your Pet to Taiwan?

Updated 2024 Guide: Understanding Australia’s New Pet Import Requirements

Planning Pet Travel to Australia

Pet Travel to Australia Via Canada

Planning Pet Travel to Australia From Colombia

How to Ship a Cat From Australia to the United States

How to Manage Dog Travel to Australia From China

Pet Move Spotlight: Four Pets Make the Most of Australian Quarantine

We’re reimagining the way pets move around the world.

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Common Questions

& Quick Answers

Pet Shipping Services for national, overseas and Military. Pet Shipping by Ground or Air.

Happy Tails Alerts

New live chat.

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Responses will be received as quickly as possible during business hours (7 am - 4 pm MST Mon - Fri). After hours, the chat feature will leave us a message and we will respond the next working day.

Featured Testimonial

animal travel agent

From our initial contact with Happy Tails Travel, Lizzie, our Pet Travel Specialist, demonstrated unparalleled professionalism and dedication. Lizzie's expertise and commitment were evident throughout the entire process, providing us with the confidence that Sparky was in the best possible hands. Her attention to detail, clear communication, and genuine care for animals made the entire experience seamless and stress-free. "

Make sure to read the rest of Sparky's testimonial and our others here !

Pet travel specialists

Pet Travel Services

Your pet travel specialists.

Happy Tails Travel, Inc. makes moving your pet a breeze, whatever your pet transportation needs! We can provide a wide variety of services locally in Tucson and Phoenix, as well as nationwide & worldwide. Happy Tails Travel started locally in Tucson, Arizona and has grown to a national and overseas pet travel agency. We are proud of our pet travel safety record. No pet has ever been injured or lost in all of thousands of pet relocations.

At Happy Tails Travel, Inc., our goal is peace of mind and convenience for a safe, prompt, and comfortable journey for your pet. We help achieve a stress-free experience for you both by providing helpful tips and knowledge based on our experience and expertise. We are registered with the USDA as an Intermediate Handler (registration 86-H-026). We comply with all rules and regulations of the Animal Welfare Act, which is a federal law protecting animals in transit.

Your pet's safety and well-being is of the greatest concern and is key to our success. We will work with you to arrange the most direct travel route, with the best pet travel programs, to maximize comfort during your pet's travel.

We are happy you are considering our pet travel services and look forward to assisting you with the difficult process of pet shipping. We are here to ease your mind and spirit, and let your pet's relocation be as comfortable as possible.

Happy Tails Travel, Inc. offers Pet Relocation/Moving Services, including:

  • Pet Transport Service customized to you and your pets unique needs.
  • Professional Pet Pickup and Delivery - We can provide or arrange to pick up and deliver your departing or arriving pet, including door-to-door service nationwide to and from the airport, veterinarian, home or kennel (not available in all areas, for an extra charge).
  • Flight Arrangements - Your Pet Relocation specialist will arrange the most direct flight possible to minimize the in-transit time for your pet.
  • Private Long-Distance Ground Transportation
  • Compliance with all Animal Welfare Act Regulations.
  • Compliance with all TSA-mandated security measures.
  • Instructions for acclimation for your pet's safe travel without the use of sedation!
  • Acquire Health Certificate and Letter of Acclimation.
  • Ensuring that vaccinations, including rabies, are up-to-date.
  • Work one on one with your vet to ensure proper documentation preparation.
  • Supply & review all required documents for international travel.
  • Research and complete the requirements of destination country (if shipping internationally) including documentation, quarantines, etc.
  • Contact the airline for any additional requirements.
  • Assist you in obtaining travel carrier of appropriate size, and instructions on how to professionally prepare the pet carrier to ensure a safe and comfortable flight for your pet.
  • Determine proper arrival and departure procedures and documentation.
  • Arrange payment to airline, vet, quarantine facility, dog or cat kennel, pet transport vendor, etc.
  • Assist with all logistics and timing offlight/vet/transport/paperwork.

Your customized pet travel services also include:

(Please note: the steps below are very time consuming and can take hours or even weeks to complete.)

  • An estimate of costs you may expect to incur for your pet travel services.
  • Explanation of pet relocation process including clear communication, guidance and reassurance of any concerns from start to finish!
  • Research into the most direct airline flight available for your pets.
  • By e-mail, you will receive customized pet shipping and travel instructions such as: Information on documentation requirements.
  • Tips to prepare your pet for Air and/or Ground travel.
  • Proper kennel size requirements and preparation info for the airline.
  • Proper check-in/pick-up procedure at the airline.
  • Assistance with logistics involved such as: who, where, when, how.
  • Booking of the pet's airline flight or scheduling your pet's long distance ground transportation. Our fee does not include airfare ticket costs or the cost of ground transport.
  • Direct communication with your Pet Travel Specialist by phone or e-mail.
  • A Pet Travel Packet with all the required airline flight documents and crate stickers and customized tags.

As a professional pet shipper, Happy Tails can also provide or arrange for the following pet services:

  • Pick up and/or delivery of your pet (including from shelters, breeders, or wherever you desire).
  • Selection and purchase of airline-approved pet carrier.
  • Obtain health and/or veterinary certificates.
  • Complete domestic and international pet travel documentation.
  • Arrangement of boarding and/or pet grooming services.
  • Ground transport to kennel, vet, home, and/or airlines.
  • Prepayment for goods and services.

To simplify your book-keeping, when we set up and arrange for third-party professional boarding, ground transportation, veterinary service or kennel purchase, we will arrange for direct payment to these vendors for a one-time handling fee plus the cost of the goods or service. A final invoice will be provided upon your request. If we pay for the airline fees through our accounts with the airlines, there will be a minimum service fee.

We accept all major Credit Cards. For your security, credit card transactions will be made through Quickbooks. Discounts are given for multiple pets , military personnel , roundtrip services, repeat clients and 501c3 rescues.

For more information & a comprehensive pet travel plan, please fill out the Pet Travel Form .

Currently filling spots for our Guam Charter!

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[email protected]

  Copyright © 2019 AnimalTravelAgent.com - All Rights Reserved.

World Pet Travel

It’s All About The Journey

At World Pet Travel we believe that every pet deserves a journey filled with love, care, and unforgettable moments. Our mission is to turn the complexities of international pet travel into a seamless and joyful adventure for you and your furry companion. With our unwavering commitment to safety, expertise, and personalized pet transportation service, we transform your pet’s journey into a heartwarming tale of exploration and togetherness. Discover the world with your pet by your side, and let us make every step of the journey a cherished memory.

Pet Nanny Services Now Available

Our Pet Nanny will take excellent care of your little one from pickup to delivery, ensuring a stress-free pet shipping experience. Every pet is cared for by trained and licensed pet care specialists.

Grey Cat

What Sets Us Apart

  • Expertise in Pet Transport : Our team comprises seasoned professionals with in-depth knowledge of international pet travel regulations, ensuring a smooth and compliant journey.
  • Personalized Pet Travel Service : We believe in tailor-made solutions. Each pet is unique, and we work closely with you to create a travel plan that meets their specific needs for pet transportation.
  • Safety First for Animal Transport : Your pet’s safety is our top priority. From health certifications to secure transportation, we leave no detail unchecked.
  • Client-Centered : We’re here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide support at every step of the way. Your peace of mind matters to us.

​Join us in embarking on a journey where pets are cherished companions, and their well-being is our foremost concern. Let’s explore the world together, one safe and happy pawstep at a time.

Pet Travel Services

Tailor your pet transport experience, all airport services.

Explore our comprehensive airport services designed to make your pet’s travel experience smooth and stress-free. From seamless check-in and flight coordination to customs clearance, we’ve got all your airport needs covered.

Ground Transportation

Discover our top-notch ground transportation services dedicated to ensuring your pet’s safe and comfortable journey from door to door. We handle every aspect, from secure pickup to reliable transit, with the utmost care and expertise.

Export & Import Documentation

Streamline your pet’s international journey with our expert import and export documentation services. We take care of all the paperwork, permits, and endorsements, ensuring full compliance with destination country regulations.

Your Pet’s Stress-Free Journey Around the World

Our goal is to make international pet travel as smooth and worry-free as possible, ensuring your pet’s journey is safe, comfortable, and filled with care and attention from start to finish. Choose us to embark on your pet’s stress-free adventure together!

Cat & Dog Pet Transportation

ARE PET SHIPPING COSTS HIGHER THAN EXPECTED?

The cost of our services reflects the comprehensive care, expertise , and attention to detail that we dedicate to each pet’s travel experience. It encompasses a range of services, including health certifications, document preparation, vaccinations, microchipping, travel crate selection , and coordination with airlines and customs authorities, among others.

RELIABLE * RESPECTED * RECOGNIZED BY OTHERS IN OUR INDUSTRY AND BEYOND.

NBC News

Our Clients Say

PC and Rosebud in Hawaii

PC & Rosebud’s Move to Hawaii

animal travel agent

Jake’s Big Move from India to Australia

animal travel agent

Japan to USA

Working with the best clients and partners.

We are so very happy to see our Nemo! Thank you all!

NuCompass Relocation

Thanks a lot guys for your support!! We are a happy family again!! Dogs are happy and Anja and I even more!

Cartus Relocation

Thanks for taking such great care of my babies!

MoveCenter Relocation

Fly With Me

By angela passman.

I decided to write this book for several reasons. The first is when I realized that there isn’t really a lot on this topic available. Unlike pretty much everything else, where there is a wealth of information to sort through on the internet, when it comes to pet shipping and transportation, well, to say it’s lacking is an understatement! There isn’t a whole lot out there. It’s a real struggle trying to find information about the rules and regulations, about the actual process, about what an owner needs to do for a pet before the move, during the move, and even after the move.

Fly With Me Book by Angela Passman

+1 214-396-5070

Or Text Us at

(469) 757-4364

[email protected]

JAP LOGO (1).BMP

JET-A-PET INTERNATIONAL

Door-to-door pet relocation services.

+1 (888) JET-A-PET

Jet A Pet International_Moving-With-Dog.

Welcome to Jet-A-Pet International  

JET-A-PET International Offers Prompt, Reliable & Trusted Pet Relocation Service

At Jet-A-Pet International, we  aim to make your move as easy and seamless as possible. We work with you to customize your pet's travel arrangements and put you in touch with experienced, background-verified and user-rated pet transporters. 

We’ll work whenever our clients need us, offering worry-free, quality service at a great price. Contact us today and let's get your loved pet get where you need to go - safely and with care.

Call Us for any Questions you may have about your Pet Relocation needs.

Smart Phone Outline

+1 (888) 538-2738

Se habla Espanol

[email protected]

animal travel agent

We treat every animal as our own.

Call Us for any Questions you may have about your Pet Relocation needs

OUR SERVICES

Your Go-To Pet Relocation Experts

Are you planning a move to another country?

Check out all universally acceptable airline kennels below.

Jet-A-Pet is your pet's personal travel agent.

We offer both Domestic U.S. and International services for your loved pets.  We have expert knowledge of the rules and current regulations of all countries and will, once you retain our services, advise you of not only these rules but as to the vital time frame in which you need to abide by in order to transport your pet on the desired date. The most important and best advice we can give is to contact us as much in advance as possible.

Are you planning to move to another State or Country?

With all the details you have to consider when planning a move, let Jet-A-Pet take the burden off you by arranging your pet's transport from start to finish for you.  Are you having trouble trying to figure out what airline will fly your pet from Point A to Point B? We are familiar with which airlines accept animals, where their hubs are, the best route to take, and the size aircrafts they use (not all aircrafts can hold large kennels or bigger). ​ We will choose the most direct, low cost air route possible to ensure your pet's comfort without sacrificing their safety.

Further, every shipment is unique. We custom tailor your pet's relocation services in order to meet your exact needs.

Jet-A-Pet Travel Services

Jet A Pet International_Moving-With-Dog.

Full Service

JET-A-PET makes the flight arrangements for you! We pick up your pet at your own residence/origin, obtain the health certificate, tender it to the airline in advance and pick them back up at your final destination.

Please Note: Same day pick up and tender at the point of origin will depend on the time needed to drive and obtain the Health Certificate.

JET-A-PET International_Cat on plane fly

Airport-to-Door

Our Airport-to-Door transport service.

We will make the flight arrangements. You will meet our certified agent at the airport at the origin destination and we tender to the airline, pick-up at the destination airport and we deliver to the final destination.

Jet A Pet International_moving with gold

Door-to-Door

Our Door-To-Door transport service.

Similar level of service from our Full Service VIP offering. Only difference is the Health Certificate, which will need to be obtained by you.

holiday vacation jack russell dog waitin

Airport-to-Airport

Our Airport-To-Airport transport service.

We will make the flight arrangements, you will meet our agent at the airport at the origin, we will tender to the airline, and you will collect upon arrival.

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Door-to-Airport

Our Door-To-Airport transport service.

We will make the flight arrangements, we pick-up at your residence at the origin, we will tender to the airline.  All you have to do is collect your pet upon arrival!

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International

Wherever your destination is, we provide service worldwide.

Jet-A-Pet is in tune to your concerns and worries when it comes to relocating your pets but, rest assured we'll be there for you every step of the way. We will answer any questions you may have or just simply ease your mind. Relocating pets is our business and our purpose is to provide the best possible service. Here at Jet-A-Pet our main objective is to ensure your pet's relocation is smooth and hiccup free!

AFFILIATE PARTNERS

Jet A Pet International_IPATA-Logo-300x1

Meet Our Jet-A-Pet Team

Since our founding in 1978, the professionals at Jet-A-Pet have been dedicated to the care and comfort of animals. One call to 888-JET-A-PET is all it takes to arrange safe and comfortable transport of your pet to anywhere in the world.

With everything you have to worry about when moving, we will give you the peace of mind that you no longer have to worry about the details regarding relocating your furry friends. Jet-A-Pet will happily take the responsibility to safely and comfortably transport your pets.

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Mel Goldman

Founder, European Specialist

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Lisa Strode - Schmidt

Operations Manager,

Australia & New Zealand Specialist

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Marcie Goldman

Northeast U.S. Specialist

Daughter of the founders of JET-A-PET, is our agent in Portland, Maine. Marcie has been around dog shows and kennels most of her life. Marcie is a graduate of the University of Colorado and when she's not "Getting Her Mojo On", she's helping Jet-A-Pet get pets in/out of or making a connection in Maine.

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Cheyenne Pereira

Central/South America & UK

Specialist 

Our latest addition to the Jet-A-Pet team. Cheyenne joined us in October 2015, and is our Central, South America & UK specialist. An avid animal lover, she has worked in the pet sitting/dog walking industry for the past 10 years which includes working with many exotic animals. She is a premier K9 Handler.

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Leigh Smith

Asia Specialist

Joined the JET-A-PET team in 2006 after working for fifteen years as a Vet Technician at the Veterinary Center in New York City. Leigh is our Asia specialist, residing in Cleveland, Ohio. She has extensive experience shipping to China, Japan, and Bahrain to name just a few of the Asian countries.

100% Safety Record

We take every detail of your pets move into consideration to ensure a safe arrival. Your pet's safety is our number 1 priority!

JET A PET International Logo

Here at JET-A-PET we will do as much, or as little as you need. We custom tailor each client's services to meet their precise needs.

Our Worldwide

We are united with a worldwide network of Pet Transportation Experts who will assist with your pet's big move.

The rules and regulations associated with importing pets into another country can be complicated and they change often. Here at Jet-A-Pet we keep ourselves up-to-date and have a comprehensive knowledge of all country requirements.

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Beware of Pet-Related Internet Scams. 

The CDC has learned that internet scammers are falsely representing themselves as CDC employees in emails to US citizens. We urge all our clients to follow the CDC's guidelines and only use sources you can trust! Follow the link above to learn more.

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Follow Us on Social Media for Updates.

Let us know if you'd like your pet featured!

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Mailing Address

1040 Post Rd E Suite A, Westport, CT 06880, USA

​ Office Hours (Eastern Standard Time EST)

Monday: 8am - 5pm

Tuesday: 8am - 5pm

Wednesday: 8am - 5pm

Thursday: 8am - 5pm

Friday: 8am - 5pm

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

(239) 344-8959

Client Portal

Get a Quote

  • How it Works
  • Cat Transport
  • Corporate Pet Relocation
  • Dog Transport
  • International Pet Transport
  • Military Pet Relocation
  • US Domestic Pet Transport
  • US Pet Imports
  • Pet Protection Plan
  • Testimonials
  • Why Choose Starwood?
  • Country Pet Travel Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Travel Kennel Calculator
  • State of Pet Travel Annual Report
  • Destinations

Over 10,000 pets safely delivered to their owners!

Pet Shipping Services, Peace of Mind Included

Trusted By:

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Learn why Starwood is the most highly rated global pet travel company in the US.

With a 4.9 rating and 4,000+ reviews!

Our Happy Customers

See what our customers are saying!

We Provide Global Pet Shipping Services

With our extensive experience and a reliable network of international partners, we strive to make your pet's journey a stress-free experience by meticulously attending to every aspect of their move and tailoring our services to meet your specific needs.

Our pet relocation services include transportation to or from Hawaii, pet import services to the United States, and comprehensive door-to-door international air transportation from the US to many countries worldwide.

The Starwood Family of Companies

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We know you've got questions, and we've got answers. Take a look at our pet travel FAQ's to help ease some of your concerns. 

Animal Transportation Services With Pet Safety In Mind

As fellow pet parents and pet lovers, we understand your worries about pet travel. Pet safety is our top priority, and we care for your pets as if they were our own family members.

International Pet Travel

We specialize in delivering exceptional international pet transportation solutions. Our extensive door-to-door pet shipping services are designed to cater to all your needs.

U.S. Pet Travel

In collaboration with CitizenShipper, we offer specialized services for pets traveling throughout the continental U.S. Starwood also provides seamless door-to-door transportation from the mainland to Hawaii.

Corporate Pet Travel

Whether you are a Relocation Management Company, a corporation's HR talent mobility department, or a relocation service provider seeking a reliable partner in pet transport, referring your clients and employees to us ensures their peace of mind.

Military Pet Travel

We take pride in extending exclusive discounts and tailor-made services to our brave active-duty military personnel and esteemed veterans.

Dog Shipping

We understand that your dog is not just a pet but a beloved member of your family. We are here to ensure a stress-free and comfortable journey for your four-legged companion. 

Cat Shipping

We are dedicated to providing your feline friend with the utmost care and comfort during their travels. Our experienced and compassionate team is here to ensure a stress-free journey.

300+ Reviews

"After getting our family back (2 Goldens) from NY to London Gatwick I have to congratulate you and your global team for achieving what is no small achievement. Your service in managing the paperwork, the customs clearance, selecting the best airline and route and hand holding the vets through this timely but critical process was, I am sure the only reason everything went through without delay or undue stress. Thanks to you and to all of your team. You are a service benchmark."

"The people you used at each step were wonderful. The girl who picked him up in Houston was wonderful. The man who delivered him here in Dubai – equally great. I know this is something you and your team do on a regular basis – but obviously this isn’t something we do – and to have our little dog with us here in our new home in Dubai makes our apartment here, our home! Of course, I shall recommend you to anyone wishing to fly a pet – and when it’s time for us to fly home, I’ll be in touch."

"I would like to thank you for the wonderful service transporting our four legged kids. It was not just transporting, your updates, the photos and most of all for that moment of happiness when they arrived. Priceless!"

"Greg and I wanted to thank you very much for all your work to get Pepper safely back to Australia.I know that we bombarded you guys with a lot of anxious emails at one of your busiest times of the year. We wanted to put on the record that we sincerely thank you for all your guidance and patience with us, and especially for taking on Pepper’s move at a time when we were having trouble getting traction with another service provider – you got us back on track, and very quickly."

"Samantha is doing quite well. We were very pleased with your service. She is a very important member of our family and we were very stressed about her being on such a long flight. Thanks to all the personal assistance you gave me to prepare her, everything turned out better than we could have expected. If we should ever need to fly out pet again, I can’t imagine using any other service. I would highly recommend Starwood Animal Transport to everyone!"

"Blake and Raven had a wonderful journey. I don't think the trip phased them in the least. They are happily settled and enjoying life in Georgia. Kenny did a wonderful job taking care of them both. He was very conscience and caring, and made sure they were fine before leaving. I will definitely recommend your business to anyone needing to relocate their pet family."

"Thank you very much for your help in getting Cricket here. We are so happy to have him here and he is settling in. Of course the journey was long but he is now back to being his usual self. You really did make the entire process very smooth and easy and we never had to worry about anything. Thanks a lot!"

"All went very well and my parents and aunt were impressed with the care and organization of the people they met on each end. Thanks so much! Gigi is settling in and has no issues with her crate after the trip."

"Thanks to Starwood Animal Transport, our first experience moving our dog internationally was a very successful one! The communication throughout the entire process was prompt, clear and comforting. Kudos to Ross, Sherry and Nick for providing great customer service.I do believe that in the end, our dog had better care and travel arrangements than we did. I highly recommend Starwood and will certainly use them again in the future."

"A very BIG thank you to you all! The trio arrived safe and sound this morning around 2am and they were absolutely fine. They seem to have settled well into their new home as if nothing ever happened. I so appreciate all the hard work, care and professionalism that made this relocation happen. 'Starwood' is on my top list of favourites and shall make sure everyone that is ever wanting to relocate pets shall know about you all!"

Pet Travel Blog

What might delay my pet's travel plans, puppy and kitten scams, the best airline-approved travel carriers for cats and dogs, moving your pet can get complicated..

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Never Leave Your Furry Friend Behind With These Pet Transportation Services

These services will get your pet where they need to be when you can't.

Maddie Topliff is a Daily Paws intern and a senior at Drake University studying public relations, Spanish and advertising, but perhaps most importantly, she is sister to her human brother Ben and her two fur baby brothers Chip the cockapoo and Doug the pug. Maddie also works as an intern at Principal Financial Corporation and has a year of ad agency experience under her belt, too. Writing for Daily Paws has been absolutely paw-some, and Maddie feels lucky to be a contributor!

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Whether you're moving across the country or the world, figuring out how to get your pet from point A to point B can be a challenge. Thankfully, there are many pet transportation services whose mission it is to safely deliver your furry friend to wherever you're going. Some even offer luxury services like travel insurance or the ability to transport your pet via private jet.

It can be daunting to choose a pet transportation service, especially since you're trusting a company with your pet's well-being. Unfortunately, there are many scam companies that do not have you or your pet's best interests in mind. To avoid any mishaps, we gathered a handful of trusted pet transportation services that are recognized by the United States Department of Agriculture for their work.

Best Pet Transportation Services of 2022

Best for layovers: airpets international.

  • Best for Multiple Quotes: CitizenShipper
  • Best International Pet Transport: Air Animal
  • Best Ground Transport Service: Royal Paws
  • Best Pet Protection Coverage: Starwood Pet Travel
  • Best Multi-Pet Discount: Happy Tails Travel, Inc.
  • Best Luxury Service Options: Blue Collar Pet Transport
  • Starting price: $1,000
  • Operates in: 50 states
  • Type of transport offered: Ground and air

Pros & Cons

  • Offers pet lodging for layovers during long-distance trips
  • Has a personalized pet nanny service
  • Over 30 years of experience with a variety of household pets (dogs, reptiles, etc.)
  • Must request an estimate to access pricing
  • Starting price: Will vary
  • Type of transport offered: Ground
  • Receive multiple quotes within minutes of submitting request
  • You have the ability to choose a driver
  • Offers $1,000 pet protection plan and 24/7 Televet care
  • Pricing can be unpredictable
  • Starting price: $1,100
  • Services are offered in more than 165 countries
  • Clients are assigned a dedicated pet move manager
  • Offers multiple service options like pet lounges, door-to-door pickup, and more
  • Doesn't reimburse you if flights are canceled
  • Operates in: 49 states
  • Can use your own vehicle for transportation
  • Provides text, photo, and video updates throughout the ride
  • Pets always ride solo
  • Only accepts trips that are 500+ miles
  • Offers veterinary, cancelation, and trip interruption coverage
  • Company is endorsed by the USDA
  • Has connections with veterinary clinics across the U.S.
  • All coverage plans cost extra
  • Starting price: $300
  • Offers reduced prices for multiple pets
  • Hires an extra handler for 3+ pets
  • Registered with the USDA to ensure reliability
  • Doesn't provide pet transportation on weekends
  • Starting price: $1,150
  • Offers a private jet service for your pet
  • Assigns a flight nanny to any pets under 20 pounds
  • Trip coverage is included in transportation price
  • Only available for domestic trips

What Is the Cheapest Way to Ship a Pet?

The cheapest way to ship your pet is to transport them yourself using your own vehicle. By doing this, you'll essentially avoid spending any money on a pet transportation service. But if driving your pet yourself isn't an option, opting for a pet transportation service's basic offerings without any bells and whistles can help keep your costs low.

Is It Safe to Ship Pets in a Plane's Cargo Hold?

While some pets travel just fine in cargo holds, it's still a good idea to either opt for a less stressful form of transportation or just leave them with a sitter if you're going on vacation or a quick trip. Generally, transporting your pet in a plane's cargo hold is risky business, as this puts them in a potentially deadly situation if the temperature ends up becoming too hot or cold during transit.

Related Articles

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Animal Airways

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We Make Flying with Pets Easy

We Make Flying with Pets Easy

We offer simple tailor-made solutions to help you fly with your pet to any destination.

In-Cabin Pet Travel

In-Cabin Pet Travel

From choosing travel crates to the finding the most suited itinerary, we help you take care of every aspect of flying with your pet in-cabin.

Cargo or Checked Baggage Pet travel

Cargo or Checked Baggage Pet travel

Maximizing your pet's safety when traveling in the airline's cargo hold.

FLY with your PET leave your worries with us. We CARE, we KNOW and we DO.

Enjoy a simple, straight-forward travel experience with your pet. We help you choose an airline and the most suitable route for your family and pet.

Our Management Services

Flight Management

We help you choose an airline and build a simple, comfortable route for you and your pet - taking into account your budget - then we coordinate all the services involved.

Veterinarian Guidance

We Are Vets

Our professional flight veterinarians will assist you and support you through the process making sure your pet is in good health conditions and all the terms and standards requested for pet shipment take place.

Emotional Support Animal

Special Services

A special services for people with special needs. We are here to assist and help pet owners that suffer physical and / or emotional disabilities and need their pets with them.

Frequently Asked Question

Can my pet eat during the flight, what shots (vaccinations) does my pet need, what documentation do i need, news & updates, per courier usa-europe, animal airways to open an italian branch, animal airways cultivates new line of expertise.

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International Pet Moves

Moving your pet around the world.

There are hundreds of details to attend to when moving a pet offshore. Regulations vary by destination and frequently change. Engaging Air Animal to manage your pet's international move will ensure a smooth transition for you and your pet. We move pets to more than 165 countries and we’ve posted average bundled prices for some of the most common overseas destinations on this page.

Let’s talk! Start your pet’s move well before your relocation date by telling us more using our online request .

  • Start six to 12 months before immigrating with your pet to the Pacific rim countries - Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, the Fiji Islands.
  • Start three months ahead when moving to Europe, the Middle East or Africa.
  • Start two months ahead when moving to Central America, South America or the Caribbean.
  • Start three weeks ahead when moving to Canada. See our domestic pricing for Canadian relocations.

Your pet relocation needs depend upon your pet’s species, breed, the number of pets relocating, each pet's weight, the flight kennel in which your pet flies, the origin, the destination, the pre-flight requirements, air transport charges, and in-transit care charges. That’s why we don’t do automated cookie-cutter replies. Sharing your plans using the online request allows your pet move manager to develop your itinerary and move proposal based on your move or flight date and thoughtful consideration of your needs.

Your international pet relocation average bundled price includes air cargo charges, relocation logistics, a pet travel kennel, laboratory charges for required blood tests, veterinary inspections, international health certificate preparation, in-transit care, pet hotel or quarantine if required, customs entry procedures, ground transport to a gateway airport if needed, and the specific requirements of the destination country.

Last minute cancellations and flight changes without notice still persist due to airline staffing and aircraft availability.  These situations are out of our control. We will try our best to assist and reschedule.  Air Animal will not compensate or reimburse for expenses when such situations arise.

Many clients call on us repeatedly and refer friends and family to us. Try us once and you'll understand why!

Pet Move Pricing

Select a destination.

Choose your regional destination to view average prices to the most popular relocation destinations.

Pet Move Service Levels

Step 2: select a service level, option 1 vip – origin residence to destination residence.

This service includes residential pickup and delivery, airport terminal services, commercial airline cargo charges and international health certificate preparation.

OPTION 2 Origin Pet Express – Origin Residence to Destination Airport

This service includes residential pickup at origin, commercial airline cargo charges, and international health certificate preparation. It does not include destination arrangements or costs such as quarantine.

OPTION 3 Destination Pet Express – Origin Airport to Destination Residence

This service includes commercial airline cargo charges, residential delivery at destination, and international health certificate preparation.

OPTION 4 Book & Fly – Origin Airport to Destination Airport

This self-service airport to airport option includes airline cargo reservations, cargo charges, international health certificate preparation, and logistics fees on airlines that move pets. It does not include origin or destination arrangements; or costs such as quarantine. Not available for all international destinations .

OPTION 5 Pet Travel - Health Certificate Services

This option includes providing documents to facilitate a USDA-accredited veterinarian-issued international health certificates. We offer health certificates for additional pets at $100 each.

Please review the pricing, the steps we use, the necessary timeline and the information we need from you. Then request services using our online request form . Veterinary appointment required.

Pet Move Plan Ahead

Step 3: faqs.

De-stressing Your Move - Our Air Animal Pet Moving Made Easy ® App offers mobile and desktop concierge service exclusively for Air Animal clients. You’ll have your pet move and global tracking services in the palm of your hand. When you complete your online request your pet move manager will email your Air Animal App username and password. You will also receive scheduled email timelines outlining next steps before the move so you know exactly what is happening. You and your pet mover set the frequency of these updates.

Airline Partners - As an IATA-approved agency, Air Animal leverages pet transportation industry relationships and pet moving expertise built over more than 40 years to arrange your pet's move as live animal air cargo on commercial airlines. Pet moves by air are safer and cause less stress than moving your pet in the family car. Like all professional pet shipping companies, we are not a low-cost alternative to arranging your own move, nor do we own the planes.

The Industry Leader - Our longstanding relationships with commercial airlines and our intricate knowledge of the rules and regulations in over 165 countries have made Air Animal the top international animal shipping company in the United States. We know the international marketplace, quarantine issues, blood test and documentation requirements, and the preferred air carriers by destination better than anyone.

Booking Space - Space for pets is managed solely by the airlines. As an IATA-approved agency, Air Animal employs up-to-date online booking tools and reserves space for your pet when the airline offers a booking opportunity. We call these air waybills. Space is offered by airlines three to 30 days before the flight depending on the airline.

Ground Transport - If your pet is a large breed, ground transport to a gateway airport may be required. Wide body airplanes accommodating the extra-large and giant kennels are only available at gateway airports. Air Animal offers a nationwide network of service partners who will drive your pet to their departure airport.

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Find A Pet Shipper

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International Pet and Animal Transportation Association

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Do you ship animals! See details about joining IPATA and becoming a globally recognized company who promotes humane animal transport.

Need to ship a pet? You’re in the right place! Search from a list of trusted IPATA member pet shipping experts from all over the world.

View IPATA members (Including airlines) who provide goods and services to the pet transportation industry.

Shipping a Dog, Cat or Other Pet?

There is no single checklist because every pet is different and unique. But IPATA can help. Here are some FAQs to get you started.

Do I have to join IPATA to ship my pet?

How do I select a kennel, or crate, to ship my pet by air?

Can pets travel by bus, train or on ocean vessels?

Why does an airline refuse to fly pets when it is too hot or cold?

How do I find quarantine requirements for a specific country?

Are cargo holds safe for pets?

Is tranquilization okay for my pets?

Featured Members

Dubai Kennels & Cattery

Why choose a pet shipper who is a member of IPATA?

IPATA The Pet Shipping Experts International Pet and Animal Transportation Association

Have You Been Scammed

Were you told ipata was shipping a pet to you.

Do you have a receipt from “IPATA” covering payment for a puppy or for shipping?

If so, this is a SCAM!

IPATA is an association of professional pet shippers. IPATA does NOT ship pets ; our members ship pets but under their own company name .

There is no legitimate pet shipping company with “IPATA” or “ipata” in their name.

If you see a company using the IPATA name, please report it to [email protected] For more information on pet scams go to https://www.ipata.org/pet-scams

IPATA on Facebook:

Pet shipping news last update: 3/19/2024.

Now Arriving at J.F.K.: Horses From Iceland and Dogs From the West Bank, New York Times 3/19/2024

The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) Presents Brachycephalic Program at the IATA World Cargo Symposium - Hong Kong,   IPATA 3/18/2024

The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) Past President, Simon Jackson Spoke on the Gold Standard Delivery in Pet Shipping at the IATA World Cargo Symposium in Hong Kong, IPATA 3/17/2024

Gulf Air Bahrain Team Awarded Industry Partner Award at IPATA International Conference in Dubai  IPATA 10/10/2023

Professional Pet Shippers Vote for Best Pet Shipping Airlines at the 45 th Annual IPATA Conference in Dubai IPATA 10/10/2023

IPATA Launches New Brachycephalic (BOAS) Online Portal and Certification Program for Pet Shippers, Airlines and Veterinarians IPATA 9/12/2023

  • The Essentials of Travelling Abroad with Your Dog StuffCoNz 8/2023

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Travel With a Pet

A cartoon image of a woman in her home preparing to travel. She is kneeling down to pick up her cat in a carrier and a thought bubble shows her thinking of an airplane.

Do you want to travel with your pet to another State or country? Before you go, you may need to complete certain paperwork or tasks, such as getting a health certificate for your pet. Meeting these requirements takes time, so contact your veterinarian for help as soon as you decide to travel (whether by plane, car, boat, train, or other means).

Not all animals qualify for pet travel.

What is considered a pet? A pet is a privately owned companion animal not intended for research or resale and includes only certain animal groups.

Find out if your pet qualifies to travel

Your animal doesn't qualify for pet travel and is subject to different import regulations and export regulations if you:

  • Don't see your pet listed below.
  • Are exporting semen or embryos from any animal.
  • Have a pet that's considered livestock or poultry, like pigs or chickens.

The following animals qualify as pets, meaning they're subject to pet travel requirements:

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The following birds DON'T qualify as pets, meaning they're subject to different regulations:

Because they may carry and transmit certain diseases to the U.S. poultry industry, these birds are regulated as poultry.

  • Guinea fowl

View import regulations and export regulations if the type of animal you have does not qualify as a pet.

I Want To...

A cartoon woman shows a woman with a suitcase and a dog on a leash. She is standing in front of a map-like image of the United States with two planes flying away from it, representing travel out of the country

animal travel agent

BC : +1-604-303-7384      ON : +1-647-479-4989       Toll Free : +1-877-958-7387 (Canada)

We Speak Mandarin and Cantonese

Relocating with your furry, scaly, or feathered family member.

Our expert team is ready to help!

Why Work with a Certified Pet Relocation Team?

We know how important expert care is for your pet, which is why our team is comprised of individuals from across the globe with years of experience. Let’s connect.

Not sure how to prepare your pet for their upcoming travel?

Checkout our most frequently asked questions

With over 50 years of airline and customs industry knowledge, and a certified pet relocation team, Worldwide Animal Travel has established itself as a leader in pet transportation in Canada, so you can trust your furry, scaly, or feathered family members’ well-being with pet relocation services that exceed expectations.

Why choose us

Worldwide Animal Travel is a full-service pet relocation company based in Vancouver, BC, and Toronto, ON. We are here to provide your pet with a truly comfortable and e xceptional travel experience! We love what we do, and we understand how important your pets are to you. We treat your pets as if they are our own!

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International Travel

Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to ensuring the well-being and comfort of your furry friends. Our travel coordinators have access to a network of reputable and experienced agents worldwide and are ready to simplify the process for you.

Canadian Travel

We offer door-to-door service between any two points within Canada. We can provide reliable pickup and delivery services in all major Canadian cities to ensure your pet has a comfortable and safe travel experience.

Comfort Stops

If your pet is passing through Vancouver on their travels, we can provide a much-needed rest stop for feeding, exercise, and bathing at our Canada Customs bonded cat and dog kennel.

Corporate Travel

Relocating for work with your pet? We’re committed to making your corporate move a seamless experience for both you and your pet whether internationally or domestically.

Canadian Import Brokerage Services

We can help you simplify the process of filling out the necessary paperwork to import your pet. We offer import handling services, including Canada customs clearance, pet collection upon arrival, boarding, and delivery to your door To simplify your pet.

The Pet Relocation Process

You request a quote

We assign your pet a travel coordinator

Permits are obtained while we book the flight

We’ll provide a journey plan, pet carrier, and regular updates on onboarding, flight check-ins, and delivery/pick-up to keep you informed throughout your pet’s journey

Your local and federal vet approve your pet for travel

We arrange your pet’s drop off or pick up

We prepare the carrier to ensure your pet is cozy

Your pet is checked in and gets cleared for take-off

If your pet requires a comfort stop, we make the arrangements

After a government inspection you get reunited with your pet!

Contact us to get your pet ready for their next big adventure!

Achievements.

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First Company in Canada to receive BOAS certification (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) snub nose

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IPATA Industry Partner Award

IPATA Millie Woolf Memorial Leadership Award- Bruno Mansueto

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Member of ATA

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35 staff speaking 15 languages

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Monthly Spotlight

It was our joy to assist Marcel in relocating his two beloved cats, Ulysse and Grey Lynn, from Canada to France. We understand cats can be sensitive to stress and environmental changes, so careful coordination and attention to detail are crucial when planning a long-distance move. Our team took every measure to ensure that Ulysse and Grey Lynn felt secure and comfortable throughout their journey, including providing a nurturing environment during their air-bound adventures.

From pre-travel preparations like veterinary checks, crate selection, and ensuring optimal pet wellbeing, our goal was to reassure Marcel that his precious cats were in the best of care. We prioritize not only your pets’ safety but also your peace of mind.

Our team is honoured to be recognized by Marcel as “the most responsive, friendly, caring, and fairly priced pet transport company” among those he contacted.

We look forward to continuing to provide exceptional service to families and their furry companions around the world!

Worldwide Animal Travel

What’s The Best Time Of The Year To Relocate My Pet?

Life can change in unexpected ways, and it can be difficult to decide when it’s the best time to travel with your family, especially your furry friends. With work, school, relationships and general parts of life sometimes interrupting or complicating plans, it’s best...

How To Keep Your Pet Healthy Through the Winter Season

How To Keep Your Pet Healthy Through the Winter Season

With snowstorms covering the ground in powdered white and ice coating the streets, everyone’s top priority for the next month or so turns to safety. Although we might want to keep indoors, turn up the heat and enjoy some hot chocolate, the staples of cold weather, if...

Protecting your Pet from Ice and Snow This Winter

Protecting your Pet from Ice and Snow This Winter

While the snowy, blistering cold month of January brings the new year to pet households around the world, its harsh weather is not as welcoming. Snow tires, closed schools and weather warnings are slowly coming back into fashion as we charge headfirst into the...

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  • Cat Transport
  • Bird Transport
  • Small animal Transport
  • Transport of zoo animals
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  • Animal transport: dog trainers & breeders
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  • Corporate Move
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GRADLYN Petshipping – animal transport since 1968

The animal travel agency – because animal transport is a matter of trust, welcome to gradlyn pet shipping we are a specialist animal travel agency with 50 years’ experience.  .

With animal travel arrangements, it‘s all a matter of knowledge and expertise – in dealing with animals and humans, and in the preparation, planning, organization and timing. We have been handling animal transportation of all kinds since 1968 and are well-acquainted with all relevant rules, regulations and licensing requirements, from health certificates through to the application of CITES guidelines (Washington Convention for the Protection of Endangered Species), and also as regards the selection of optimal containers for the transport of animals. Our professional team can take care of your trip planning and look after your animal transportation from A to Z, right from the outset through to the arrival at your destination airport. And naturally, our tour guides will also take into account the special needs, preferences and worries of our air passengers and travelling companions whether they have two or four legs, or even more. So with your human and creature comforts assured, where do you want to go?

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ANIMAL TRAVEL TICKET

Price request about a pet transport, if your pet flies alone

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PASSENGER TICKET & ANIMAL

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Dog to USA - Referral Letter

Dear Sandra & Gradlyn Kennels,

I want to thank you for all your kindness and expert service. From start to finish and working through the recent tragedy in my family, you have been superbly professional and even more importantly, extremely caring. I cannot say enough good things about the staff at Gradlyn and especially, Sandra. The attention to service was fantastic. Communication was fabulous and always far beyond simple instruction. Rene was so kind to translate Herr Müller's emails for me. Sandra was my liaison with Willi Müller and I cannot begin to put into words how much that is appreciated. The puppy arrived in great shape. The flight was on time and all necessary paperwork was there and ready to go. Sincerely, Linda Skidmore

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ANIMAL TRANSPORT DOGS

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ANIMAL TRANSPORT CATS

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ANIMAL TRANSPORT BIRDS

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ANIMAL TRANSPORT SMALL ANIMALS

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ANIMAL TRANSPORT FISH

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ANIMAL TRANSPORT ZOO ANIMALS

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ANIMAL TRANSPORT REPTILES

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ANIMAL TRANSPORT AMPHIBIAN

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ANIMAL TRANSPORT INSECTS

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Species specific transport

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Personal contact

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"By car or by plane, the animal is the focus. A species-appropriate and thus pleasant transport is our top priority. This is guaranteed, among other things, by our air-conditioned special vehicles and animal transport boxes licensed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Our "animal" passengers cannot reach their destination more comfortably and safely. The health and well-being of the animal is ALWAYS the focus of our actions.“ Kay Wissenbach, CEO of GRADLYN

GRADLYN Infothek

Let us tell you a touching story - the story of Timo...

Gradlyn, the renowned zoo animal transporter, recently embarked on a special journey to safely transport four adorable koalas to their new home in Wilhelma Zoo, Stuttgart...

Sally's journey from Frankfurt to Vancouver with Lufthansa...

April 2021 :

21 Kirk's dik-dik to Kazan, Russia

21 arctic fox to edinburgh, scotland, 28 hawks to sao paolo, brazil.

January 2021 :

45 Western Hognose Snakes to Seoul, Korea

4 cornsnakes to seoul, korea, 180 western hognose snakes to osaka, japan, 97 ball pythons to osaka, japan, 2 brown kukri snakes to osaka, japan, 97 cornsnakes to osaka, japan.

December 2020 :

2 Philippine Crocodiles to Manila, Philippines

147 western hognose snakes to miami, usa, 2 dwarf rabbits to palma de mallorca, spain, 1 goodfellow´s tree kangaroo to narita, japan, 10 geese to toronto, canada, 47 pythons to osaka, japan, 10 milksnakes to osaka, japan, 1 falcon to bahrain, 1 dwarf rabbit to dubai, uae, 30 pythons to seoul, korea.

November 2020 :

43 Pythons to Narita, Japan

1 dwarf rabbit to houston, usa, 1 hamster to washington, usa, 43 marbled teals to palma de mallorca, spain, 1 african grey parrot to addis ababa, ethiopia.

October 2020 :

1 Russian Tortoise to Dallas, USA

10 pied avocets to singapore, 1 hawk to toronto, canada, 88 pythons to osaka, japan.

September 2020 :

1 African Grey Parrot to EWR, USA

2 lionhead rabbits to miami, usa, 1 griffon vulture to sofia, bulgaria, 1 falcon to dubai, uae, 5 falcons to bahrain, 120 pathons to narita, japan, 3 black-capped squirrel monkeys to johannesburg, south africa, 180 western hognose snakes to hong kong, 147 pythons to osaka, japan, 15 children´s pythons to osaka, japan, 11 stimson´s pythons to osaka, japan, 2 pygmy pythons to osaka, japan, 2 woma pythons to osaka, japan, 87 pythons to narity, japan.

August 2020 :

1 Harpy Eagle to Quito, Ecuador

3 guinea pigs to chicago, usa, 36 falcons to doha, qatar, 553 western hognose snakes to miami, usa, 3 kingsnakes to miami, usa, 267 cornsnakes to miami, usa, 24 falcons to dubai, uae.

July 2020 :

1 Cockatiel to New York, USA

1 ferret to chicago, usa, 1 dwarf rabbit to seattle, usa, 725 western hognose snakes to miami, usa, 411 cornsnakes to miami, usa.

June 2020 :

1 dwarf rabbit to Toronto, Japan

25 frogs to brussels, belgium, 1 african grey parrot to new york, usa, 2375 pigeons to lisbon, portugal, 1 palla´s cat to helsinki, finland, 1 dwarf rabbit to narita, japan, 29 pythons to narita, japan, 24 pythons to osaka, japan.

April 2020 :

2 Clouded Leopards to Sydney, Australia

March 2020 :

240 Pigeons to Lisbon, Portugal

71 pythons to chicago, usa.

February 2020 :

1 Russian Tortoise to Nairobi, Kenia

3 budgeriars to bangkok, thailand, 2 hawks to phnom penh, cambodia.

January 2020 :

25 Carpt Pythons to Nagoya, Japan

18 budgeriars to new york, usa, 1 finlayson's squirrel to bangkok, thailand.

December 2019 :

2 changeable hawk-eagles to Narita, Japan

64 snakes to osaka, japan, 11 geckos to osaka, japan, 7 waldrapps to malaga, spain.

November 2019 :

8 Vietnamese Crocodile Newts to Hanoi, Vietnam

30 marbled teals to palma de mallorca, 187 western hognose snakes to hong kong, 1 dwarf rabbit to atlanta, usa, 1 yellow-footed-rock-wallaby to tel aviv, israel, 22 pythons to taipei, taiwan, 150 canary birds to new york, usa, 4 guinea pigs to detroit, usa, 4 turtle doves to zagreb, croatia.

October 2019 :

20 Falcons to Dubai, UAE

1 hawk to narita, japan, 1 hawk to haneda, japan, 100 pythons to chicago, usa, 71 pythons to seoul, korea, 10 pythons to nagoya, japan, 63 pythons to narita, japan, 6 southwestern snake-neck turtles to narita, japan, 167 pythons to osaka, japan, 2 golden lion tamarins to moscow, russia, 40 pigeons to lisbon, portugal, 1 griffon vulture to sofia, bulgaria, 11 pythons to calgary, canada.

September 2019 :

59 snakes to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

2 hawks to dubai, uae, 4 falcons to bahrain, bahrain, 4 falcons to doha, qatar, 31 falcons to dubai, uae, 60 venomous snakes to miami, usa, 64 pythons to nagoya, japan, 4 dwarf rabbits to new york, usa.

August 2019 :

1 Blue-Tongued Skink to Houston, USA

1 bearded dragon to atlanta, usa, 430 pigeons to porto, portugal, 15 long-ead hedgehogs to chicago, usa.

July 2019 :

1 green-cheeked parakeet to Dallas, USA

127 western hognose snakes to london, uk, 569 western hognose snakes to miami, usa, 259 western hognose snakes to osaka, japan, 2 emperor tamarins to auckland, new zealand, 166 western hognose snakes to hong kong, 83 western hognose snakes to tokyo, japan, 6 diamondback terrapins to dubai, vae.

June 2019 :

1 Tiger to Osaka, Japan

2 black.and-white ruffed lemurs to tel aviv, israel, 1 white-naped mangabey to malaga, spain, 1 green-cheeked parakeet on road trip, 9 common gundis to tokyo, japan, 80 pythons to nagoya, japan, 2 bengal cats to washington, usa, 1 habicht to tokyo japan, 600 pigeons to lisbon, portugal, 2 marginated tortoises to palma de mallorca, spain, 1 hermann's tortoise to new york, usa.

April 2019 :

450 pigeons to Lisbon, Portugal

1 de brazza's monkey to singapore, 2 european minks to tallin, estonia, 1 hamerkop to athens, greece, 2 cockatiels to new york, usa.

March 2019 :

3 Ferrets to Atlanta, USA

265 pigeons to lisbon, portugal, 82 pythons to chicago, usa, 82 pythons to osaka, japan, 12 geckos to osaka, japan, 8 inca terns to faro, portugal, 1 grey parrot to dallas, usa, 59 pythons to haneda, japan, 10 pythons to dubai, vae.

January 2019 :

2 guinea pigs to London, United Kingdom

48 pythons to taipei, taiwan, 2 sugar gliders to tucson, usa, 1 hyacinth macaw to lisbon, portugal, 64 snakes to hong kong, 94 canary birds to new york, usa, 1 falcon to london, united kingdom.

December 2018 :

4 Nothern Bald Ibis (Road transport)

1 binturong to novosibirsk, russia, 6 nothern bald ibis to malaga, spain, 7 pythons to nagoya, japan.

November 2018 :

1 Kirk's dik-dik to Kazan, Russia

1 arctic fox to edinburgh, scotland, 2 hawks to sao paolo, brazil, 2 guinea pigs to washington, usa, 7 giant flemish rabbits to seattle, usa, 21 pythons to panama.

October 2018 :

4 brown spider monkeys to Taipei, Taiwan

1 fiji iguana to toronto, canada, 35 marbeled ducks to palma de mallorca, 4 geladas to new york, usa, 2 hawks to toronto, canada.

September 2018 :

59 falcons to Doha, USA

1 hamster to tampa, usa, 1 sumatran orang utan to dallas, usa, 16 goats to bangkok, thailand, 3 north island brown kiwis to new york, usa, 6 falcons to dubai, united arab emirates, 1 hawk to dubai, united arab emirates, 2 griffon vultures to sofia, bulgarien, 102 pythons to nagoya, japan, 240 pigeons to porto, portugal.

August 2018 :

2 hawks to Sao Paolo, Brazil

2 falcons to lisbon, portugal, 2 falcons to sofia, bulgaria, 198 snakes to hong kong,, 45 falcons to doha, qatar, 4 guinea pigs to reykjavik, iceland, 355 pigeons to porto, portugal, 6 hawks to new york, usa, 5 hawks to tokio, japan.

July 2018 :

2 Geladas to Montreal, Canada

1 macaw to miami, usa, 11 falcons to bahrain,, 10 falcons to doha, qatar, 2 empty boxes to columbus oh, usa, 1 palawan peacook pheasant to barcelona, spain, 1 green-cheeked parakeet to atlanta, usa, 297 snakes to miami, usa, 94 snakes to hong kong, china, 38 snakes to tokyo, japan, 97 insects to tokyo, japan, 2 red ruffed lemurs to istanbul, turkey.

June 2018 :

6 Hawks to New York, USA

141 snakes to hong kong,, 285 snakes to miami, usa, 46 pythons to osaka, japan, 53 pythons to chicago, usa, 1 angora rabbit to chicago, usa, 1 common musk turtle to seattle, usa, 432 pigeons to lisbon, portugal, 1 fossa to dubai, uae, 4 gelada baboons to montreal, canada.

April 2018 :

497 pigeons to Lisbon, Portugal

1 brush-tailed rat bettong to tel aviv, israel, 4 hawks to rio de janeiro, brazil, 2 golden-headed tamarins to hong kong,, 1 cotton-headed tamarin to tel aviv, israel, 2 sloth bears to chicago, usa.

February 2018 :

1 Emperor Tamarin to Sao Paolo, Brazil

2 orang-utans to tel aviv, israel, 60 pythons to chicago, usa.

January 2018 :

1 dwarf rabbit to Chicago, USA

1 hawk to geneva, switzerland, 1 hamerkop to istanbul, turkey.

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Should I Use a Travel Agent? Our Travel Expert Says It Makes All the Difference.

The new age of travel agents know how to find deals, book off-the-beaten path trips, and get you out of any jam. Here are our travel expert’s favorites.

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I’ve always thought that planning my own trips was the most cost-effective way, but I’ve been hearing more about travel agents making a comeback and saving their clients a lot of money. What kinds of outdoor trips should I turn to a travel agent for, and are there any who specialize in working with adventurers like me?

Technically, I’m a professional traveler. As a journalist, it’s my job to research and connect with locals to get beneath the surface of a destination. So I have never really used travel agents. What could they plan better than I could?

A lot, it turns out. Over the years, I’ve gotten to know many travel specialists, and I consider them magicians. My big aha moment happened two winters ago on a trip to Iceland . A massive storm shut down internal flights for a day, causing me to miss my return flight to the U.S. Normally, I would have spent frustrating hours on hold with the airline. But because I’d paid $65 to have Ana Gloria Garcia, an air-support specialist at the travel agency EmbarkBeyond, find and book the most affordable and convenient flight option for me, she handled the rebookings while I soaked in the Blue Lagoon.

A woman soaks in Iceland’s Blue Lagoon.

During the pandemic, agents became advocates helping travelers get refunds on canceled flights and trips. As travel has come roaring back, an agent’s superpower is now their access to the best hotel rooms, most in-the-know guides, free amenities, and more, says Cory Hagopian, senior vice president of sales and partnerships for Virtuoso , a global network of travel agencies.

And they’re attracting a young clientele. According to a recent industry survey , 38 percent of millennials and Gen Zers are opting to use travel agents as opposed to booking on their own trips. That number is far greater than Gen Xers and baby boomers, of whom only 12 and 2 percent respectively use agents.

What Do I Gain from Using a Travel Agent?

I recently had a friend tell me she spent close to 40 hours researching a family trip online. She probably could have gleaned the same intel from an hourlong conversation with a travel adviser. Knowledge is priceless, and advisers act as your insiders. They know what you don’t and fill in the blanks for things you might not have considered, says Erika Richter, a spokesperson for the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA). Their firsthand knowledge, vast network, and on-the-ground connections all combine to provide a unique perspective for crafting the perfect itinerary for you.

Kayak, paddle, raft—a river trip down Costa Rica’s Pacuare is good fun. And Danielle Meyer of Coastline Travel likes to book clients in the riverfront, all-inclusive, 20-suite Pacuare Lodge. “The way to get to the property is by whitewater rafting, so you truly begin with adventure!”

Most travel advisers specialize in certain regions and countries and travel to them frequently, so they have up-to-date intel on not only the best safari camps but the perfect tent to book for the most incredible views and the best local restaurants you won’t find on Tripadvisor. They want their client’s trips to go well to keep them coming back, so it’s in their interest to have sussed out hotels and itineraries before they send you out into the world.

Nicole Forster, 29, considers herself a savvy traveler. She’s been to 20-plus countries and enjoys destination research. But when it came to planning her honeymoon in Africa, she felt overwhelmed, so she reached out to Danielle Meyer at Coastline Travel Advisors , which specializes in bespoke itineraries. “Originally, I wanted to go to South Africa, Victoria Falls, and Madagascar,” Forster recalls. “Danielle convinced me that if we wanted to relax, we should stay in South Africa and save the other countries for separate trips.”

Over five phone conversations and multiple emails, they crafted a 15-night itinerary that included Cape Town, the winelands, the Cape Peninsula, and a safari at the Thornybush Game Reserve. Forster established her budget early in the process, and Meyer sent her a variety of lodge options to choose from.

“I initially wanted to start with the safari, but she pointed out that we’d be jet-lagged and would need to wake at sunrise for game drives,” says Forster. “The safari was our highlight, so it was a perfect way to end the trip.”

A man sitting in an open-air vehicle while on safari in South Africa smiles at the camera while an elephant is just over his shoulder, approaching.

Not only did Meyer book all of the flights, hotels, and transfers, but she created a detailed, day-by-day trip app for the couple that included useful information like check-in times at hotels and how much to tip guides .

Agents also act as advocates. If something goes wrong during your travels, they’re on call 24/7 to handle it. When Forster left the battery and charger for her camera at a hotel, Meyer arranged for an on-the-ground contact to go to a camera store and buy new ones that would be delivered to her hotel the next day.

The cost for the honeymoon planning: $150 per person. “I wouldn’t use a planner for a trip to Hawaii ,” Forster says, “but if I ever took a big trip like this again, I’d 100 percent work with an expert.”  

When to Consider Using a Travel Agent

For savvy trip planners, the best time to use a travel agent is for complicated international travel. It can save you hours of planning and peace of mind that if anything goes wrong in your chosen far-flung destination, there’s someone a What’sApp message away to handle it.

Domestically, I’d consider using a travel agent when planning a multi-week national park trip or multi-island trip in Hawaii. They will save you time, guarantee you get the best guides, and help you land reservations at always-booked lodges and hotels.

Dream Trips Delivered

Jessica Cook and her husband both work in the travel industry. Decision fatigued, they handed their honeymoon logistics over to the team at Askari Travel , an agency that specializes in South Africa. Their original plan was also an African safari, but just as they were about to put a deposit down, the Omicron variant of the coronavirus made headlines. Worried about getting stuck abroad, they reached out to Askari’s founder, Muriel Truter, who is from Zimbabwe, and upon her advice, changed their focus to South America.

Knowledge is priceless, and advisers act as your insiders. They know what you don’t and fill in the blanks of things you might not even have considered.

Truter suggested they stick to Colombia rather than country-hop. Cook supplied a budget and a wish list: 12 days, no more than three destinations, a barefoot-luxe feel, and adventures like horseback riding and mountain biking. The rest was a surprise that Askari pretty much nailed, with the exception of one hotel.

“Everything felt so authentic, but this one hotel on Barú island felt really fabricated and was full of American tourists,” recalls Cook. She immediately messaged the Askari team, saying, “Hey, this place really isn’t our vibe,” and within an hour they were on a water taxi headed to Blue Apple, a B Corp hotel—and an Outside pick for tropical adventures —on Tierra Bomba island. “It was honestly the best trip we’ve ever taken,” she says.

Tierra Bomba, a 15-minute boat ride from the Colombian capital of Cartagena, is an affordable Caribbean destination with a relaxed pace and soft white sands.

Are Travel Agents Expensive?

It depends. Cost varies. Some travel agencies won’t charge any fee, as they receive a commission from the bookings, while some high-end agencies will charge pricey annual membership fees for their services. Still others charge nominal “professional” fees starting at $150. Fees often fluctuate based on the length and intricacy of a trip and how far out you do the planning (6 to 12 months is recommended). You may occasionally come across agents who charge a percentage of the total trip price or hourly rates.

Basic travel enquiries are generally free. In 2016, Leah Smith, founder of Tafari Travel , opened an old-school brick-and-mortar location in Denver’s Cherry Creek neighborhood so her services would feel less intimidating to first-time users. “With our retail-office location, we’ve become part of the community, and both clients and non-clients are welcome to pop in and ask whatever questions they may have, no charge,” she says.

Matt Lindsay, founder of the surf-guiding and travel company LuxSurf Travel , builds relationships with resorts and property owners to get discounted rates that he can then pass on to guests.

Matt Lindsey of LuxeSurfTravel can arrange a surf safari on a 165-foot boat, complete with dive masters. surf guides, and a spa. Guests spend a week cruising around atolls in the Maldives seeking out perfect swell and swimming with whale sharks and manta rays.

Dominic Allan, the founder of Real Latin America , specializes in travel to Belize and Nicaragua and caters to independent travelers who are happy to book their own flights and hotels but are seeking his local intel. Allan’s three-tier pricing structure starts at $300 for up to three hours of phone calls, during which he might weigh in on where to eat (or not to), the best room to request in a certain lodge, or whether you really need a guide to hike.

”Totoro Eco-Lodge, in Nicaragua, has always been one of our favorites,” says Dominic Allen of Real Latin America. In addition to its laid-back vibe, it’s spectacuarly placed on Ometepe Island, with views out to the active Conception volcano. Allen recommends volcano hikes, rainforest excursions, tours of a chocolate farm, and sunset paddles in search of caiman.

Value Versus Savings

If you’re just looking for deals and steals, you might not be ready to work with a travel adviser, says Richter of the ASTA. “Anything you invest in with a travel adviser comes back to you in the form of amenities, customer service, peace of mind, better access to unique experiences, and handcrafted itineraries,” she says. “You could save money by cutting your own hair, too, but most people go to someone who knows what they’re doing.”

Agents work with preferred partners who can guarantee perks for clients, such as free upgrades, early check-in or late check-out, and resort credits. Those add-ons often translate into savings, says Justin Huxter, cofounder of the UK-based Cartology Travel . “We had a client go to Maui for a week, and because of our partnership with the resort, breakfast was included,” he says. When breakfast costs $120 for two, that’s a savings of $840.”

A meerkat sits atop a man wearing a ball cap and scans the horizon of Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pans.

Some of the Best Travel Agents in the Adventure World

Some of my go-to resources for finding a person to work with include travel expert Wendy Perrin’s annual Wow List of tried and trusted agents, the Adventure Travel Trade Association’s adviser network , and the ASTA’s advisor directory .

In addition to the agents mentioned throughout this story, others I highly recommend for adventurous travelers include:

  • Dan Achber of Trufflepig , for Africa and the Middle East
  • Miguel Cunant of Sri Lanka in Style
  • Javier Echecopar of Journey Costa Rica
  • Daniel Fraser of Smiling Albino , for Southeast Asia
  • Elizabeth Gordon of Extraordinary Journeys , for Africa
  • Kleon Howe of the Art of Travel , for French Polynesia
  • Jay Johnson of Coastline Travel , for Hawaii and California
  • Antonello Losito of Southern Visions Travel , for Puglia, Italy
  • Rabia Malik of Fora Travel , for general worldwide travel
  • Robyn Mark of Mayamaya Travel , for Africa, the Alps, Patagonia, and Japan
  • Marisol Mosquera of Aracari , for Peru and Bolivia
  • Zach Rabinor of Journey Mexico
  • Raluca Spiac of Beyond Dracula , for Romania

The author immersed in the hot waters of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, with mud on her face. It beats being on the phone trying to reschedule a flight cancellation.

Travel-advice columnist Jen Murphy is now a believer in using a travel agent. Thanks to their expertise and connections, she’s avoided dozens of trip catastrophes. 

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How to Become a Travel Agent: Everything You Need to Know

A re you great at finding reasonably priced flights and hotel rooms? Does making itineraries and solving booking issues come naturally to you? If your answer is yes, you might want to consider becoming a travel agent. And if you're the designated "trip-planning friend," you're already halfway there.

You might think the the profession is outdated, but that's not what the data shows: According to the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), 50 percent of travelers are more likely to use a travel agent now than they were in the past. Not only are travel agents needed, but the career's earning potential can be impressive, depending on the type of agent you choose to be. Use this guide to learn how to become a travel agent and kickstart your journey into a unique career.

RELATED: 26 Best Trip-Planning Hacks Straight From Travel Agents .

What do travel agents do?

A travel agent's job is to ensure their clients have the best travel arrangements. Using their expertise, they offer advice and essential details about your trip, make your reservations, book flights and hotels, and manage your travel plans overall. Any hiccups regarding your accommodations are handled by them, and they are the best at finding money-saving deals. Travel agents prioritize your needs, like your vacation schedule and budget.

Their goal is to provide peace of mind throughout the trip-planning process so you can get the most out of your vacation.

What credentials do you need to be a travel agent?

You don't necessarily need a degree to become a travel agent, but getting some training within the field could be in your best interest. This not only makes you an attractive candidate to employers and agencies who may require a form of certification , but also helps you appear more qualified, which can help further your career in the long run.

Even though there might not be a degree in "travel agency" per se, you can opt for a related program like business, economics, or hospitality instead.

What do you need to become a travel agent?

There are different ways to become a travel agent, but anyone hoping to break into the field should definitely keep the following three points in mind.

Decide what kind of travel agent you want to be.

Having a specific focus on the kind of travel experience you want to provide allows you to build the knowledge and resources to best help those specific clients. Suppose you want to work in corporate travel: Building your skills according to your niche clientele and field will help you sharpen the skills you need to develop your expertise.

Learn about the travel industry and its trends.

The travel agency field is constantly shifting, so it's important to stay up-to-date on industry changes and trends to know what you should be offering clients. People's preferences are ever-changing, so knowing what's hot and what's not is crucial. Spend time learning which places are popular and unpopular based on the season, or which restaurants are staple visits. This shows a solid and up-to-date understanding your clients will appreciate.

Build your communication and interpersonal skills.

A large part of being a travel agent is advising your clients and earning their trust, which doesn't happen overnight. Presenting yourself as knowledgeable and approachable can encourage them to trust your judgment and recommendations. This is especially important if you're not working with a travel agency, because you'll have to rely more on your brand and relationships instead of leaning on a company's reputation.

Maintaining a healthy balance of communication between you and your clients is also essential, which means scheduling phone calls, in-person meetings, keeping up with emails, and any other form of communication your client prefers.

RELATED: 9 Ways Flying First Class Can Actually Save You Money, Travel Experts Say .

Get certified if you can

Getting a certificate can be pricey and cost hundreds of dollars . So, if this option is not feasible for you, that's understandable. However, while certification isn't a requirement to become a travel agent, it can certainly help you throughout your career. Here are a few certificate programs to consider.

Certified Travel Counselor

This Travel Institute certificate requires at least five years of experience and a Certified Travel Association certification. This course focuses on marketing and building consumer relationships. CTC costs $550 to complete the course and $600 for the CTC Fast Track.

Certified Travel Industry Executive

CTIE is also backed by the Travel Institute and requires at least five years of field experience. This $550 program includes courses on travel business, marketing management, bookkeeping, and travel law.

ASTA Verified Travel Advisor

This certificate is given by the American Society of Travel Advisors and teaches applicants about the legalities of travel and how to solidify relationships with consumers. The nine-course program also focuses on ethical travel advising, agency law, and travel agency compliance.

For ASTA members, the course is $399, and for nonmember independent contractors, it's $598. Travel Advisor nonmembers pay the steepest price, which is $729, and $179 for recertification.

RELATED: 7 Hacks for Flying With Just a Carry-On—No Matter How Long Your Trip Is .

How much do travel agents make?

According to Indeed , travel agents make an average of $53,924, and salaries can range between $30,131 and $96,506, depending on where you live. But other factors can affect an agent's earning potential, like working independently instead of for a travel agency.

A travel agent's income also depends on their area of travel. The Hotel Agency Review 2023 report revealed that corporate and luxury travel agents earn much more than agents who focus on Disney and cruise trips.

Your experience level can also impact your earning potential, as agents who have worked in the field longer are typically viewed as more qualified.

RELATED:  The 7 Best Cruises to Book If You're Over 60 .

Do travel agents get discounts on flights?

Being a travel agent doesn't automatically mean you get tons of discounts and deals, but they do have access to perks that can help make planning trips easier and less expensive. Travel agents have the inside scoop on reduced rates because of their relationships with hotels and airlines. As a result, agents share these negotiated prices with their clients to help them save. Agents can, of course, also benefit from this insider knowledge and save money on their own trips.

Thanks to their agents, clients can enjoy luxury accommodations at high-end hotels like Hyatt Privé, Hilton Impresario, Marriott STARS&Luminous, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, and Mandarin Oriental Fan Club, to name a few. These perks range from spa services and later checkout times to room upgrades and complimentary breakfast.

How do you make money as a travel agent?

There are several ways a travel agent can make money in their field beyond selling travel packages or working for an agency.

Travel agents can charge a service fee, which is a base pay clients cover along with any other charges.

Travel agents can also make commissions from their contracts with hotels, tour/excursion companies, cruises, car rental services, and airlines. Add-ons like insurance can also help boost an agent's income, if their client wants it.

Booking group tours can increase a travel agent's earnings because their commission is based on how much their clients purchase, so more people means more accommodations. For example, booking travel for destination weddings or family reunions is an excellent way to book multiple hotel rooms. It's such a lucrative strategy that some agents make group booking their niche, because managing just a few a year can bring in a substantial profit.

RELATED: The Best Day to Book Flights for Your Next Getaway .

Being a travel agent comes with many perks, but ultimately, becoming one takes a lot of dedicated effort. Taking the time to learn about the travel industry is a great way to expand your tourism knowledge and consumer communication techniques. Refining your skills and becoming certified is one of the best ways to attract and retain clients.

So, if becoming a travel agent sounds like the career for you, join this community of globetrotters and combine your love for adventure, great deals, and helping others plan impressive getaways.

In the meantime, you can sign up for our newsletter to enjoy similar career-building content, as well as the latest in wellness, entertainment, and travel.

How to Become a Travel Agent: Everything You Need to Know

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Empowering small and midsize businesses for growth with generative AI

At Microsoft Advertising, we’re keenly aware of the opportunity AI presents to small and midsized businesses. We've made investments to empower SMBs to exceed their business objectives. After all, we're in the business of empowering yours!

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Unlocking the power and potential of generative AI for advertisers and publishers

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Demystify and Advocate for IAB/MRC Retail Media Measurement Guidelines

How Microsoft Retail Media (powered by PromoteIQ) helps retailers and advertisers comply with data transparency, accuracy, privacy, and security

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In 2023, over 500 million Indians tuned in to two of the biggest cricket events. A massive audience like this is a prime opportunity for marketers to tap into a wide demographic

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Starting on May 13th, all existing image and feed campaigns on a manual CPC bid strategy will upgrade to enhanced CPC.

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Max conversion value for search and other updates for April

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    animal travel agent

  3. Como escolher a melhor companhia aérea para transportar seu animal

    animal travel agent

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  5. Animal Travel Agency

    animal travel agent

  6. Agent Animalier de refuge : Fiche métier

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  1. 007 special animal agent😎😎😂 #youtubeshorts #funny

COMMENTS

  1. Lisa Meador Schoppa-Animal Travel Agent LLC

    Lisa Meador Schoppa-Animal Travel Agent LLC. 1,894 likes · 1 talking about this. Experts at Animal Transportation! More than 35 yrs experience and skilled at moving pets worldwide.

  2. Pet Travel

    Whether planning an international or domestic move in the lower 48, we can offer a variety of services to safely and comfortably get your pet wherever it needs to go. Pet Travel Transport offers international relocations, private jet charters and ground transports for all types of pets. We have been serving pet owners for over 20 years and we ...

  3. Pet Shipping Services by Ground and Air

    Happy Tails Travel has been safely shipping pets since 1995. We specialize in summer pet travel, even from the hottest states such as Arizona, Texas, Hawaii and Florida, during the hottest months. Personal & Friendly Service since 1995. Professional Pet Transport & Pet Relocation by Air. Professional Pet Transport by Ground Safe & Sound.

  4. Pet Express

    Since 1978, our pet transportation business has been trusted by families to safely relocate their pets all over the world. We are a family-owned and operated business that believes that the pets who move with us are very special, and so are our values: we love pets, we are the experts in pet transport, we are genuine when it comes to our ...

  5. Pet Transport Services

    As an international pet transportation company, we've helped safely deliver pets across the globe. Learn more about how our animal transportation services vary by country, from important requirements, to timelines, to understanding what's needed to transport your pet internationally. Understanding all of the above can help the process go ...

  6. Pet Travel

    Happy Tails Travel, Inc. makes moving your pet a breeze, whatever your pet transportation needs! We can provide a wide variety of services locally in Tucson and Phoenix, as well as nationwide & worldwide. Happy Tails Travel started locally in Tucson, Arizona and has grown to a national and overseas pet travel agency.

  7. AnimalTravelAgent.com

    The best choice for moving your pets safely across the globe!

  8. Pet Transportation Services

    World Pet Travel provides pet transportation solutions for families that are relocating around the corner or around the world with the best service. +1 214-396-5070 or text us at (469) 757-4364 [email protected]

  9. International Travel

    This travel agent's dedication to ensuring a smooth and secure journey for my pets sets them apart as a reliable and customer-focused service. If you are considering travel arrangements, I highly recommend reaching out to this travel agent for their outstanding services. ... We used Worldwide Animal Travel to support us with moving our two ...

  10. Pet Transportation

    Jet-A-Pet is your pet's personal travel agent. We offer both Domestic U.S. and International services for your loved pets. We have expert knowledge of the rules and current regulations of all countries and will, once you retain our services, advise you of not only these rules but as to the vital time frame in which you need to abide by in order to transport your pet on the desired date. The ...

  11. Starwood Pet Travel

    Starwood Pet Travel provides safe, comfortable, and stress-free pet shipping and animal transport services. Learn about our global pet transport services. (239) 344-8959

  12. The international pet travel agency

    Feathers and Fur Express specializes in organizing all your needs for international pet relocation. As a US-based pet shipping service, we are proud members of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA), ensuring that your pets are transported around the world following IATA guidelines for their safety.

  13. 7 Best Pet Transportation Services of 2023

    Best for Multiple Quotes: CitizenShipper. Best International Pet Transport: Air Animal. Best Ground Transport Service: Royal Paws. Best Pet Protection Coverage: Starwood Pet Travel. Best Multi-Pet Discount: Happy Tails Travel, Inc. Best Luxury Service Options: Blue Collar Pet Transport. 01 of 07.

  14. Animal Airways

    Animal Airways - The Pet Flight People - Pet travel and Relocation. FLY with your PET leave your worries with us. We CARE, we KNOW and we DO. Enjoy a simple, straight-forward travel experience with your pet. We help you choose an airline and the most suitable route for your family and pet. Our servuces.

  15. Lisa Meador Schoppa

    Lisa Meador Schoppa - Animal Travel Agent LLC United States, Texas, HUMBLE TX & GUAM Branch Designator: dded 2011 Industry Partner Award Primary Airport: IAH Off Phone: +1 832 776-8994 Secondary Airport: GUM Houston: Office: +1 832 776-8994 Other Airports served: AUS, DFW, HNL, SAT Guam: Office: +1 671 747-2466 Special Services Provided:

  16. International Pet Transport & Shipping Services

    OPTION 5 Pet Travel - Health Certificate Services. This option includes providing documents to facilitate a USDA-accredited veterinarian-issued international health certificates. We offer health certificates for additional pets at $100 each. Please review the pricing, the steps we use, the necessary timeline and the information we need from you.

  17. IPATA

    IPATA is an association of professional pet shippers. IPATA does NOT ship pets; our members ship pets but under their own company name. There is no legitimate pet shipping company with "IPATA" or "ipata" in their name. If you see a company using the IPATA name, please report it to [email protected]. For more information on pet scams go ...

  18. About Us

    At Worldwide Animal Travel our team has over 50 years of experience within the airline and animal transportation industry. Our vast knowledge, expertise and certifications help to ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation of your furry or feathered family members. Established in 1998, we pride ourselves in providing clients with up-to-date ...

  19. Pet Travel

    Find out if your pet qualifies to travel. Your animal doesn't qualify for pet travel and is subject to different import regulations and export regulations if you: Don't see your pet listed below. Are exporting semen or embryos from any animal. Have a pet that's considered livestock or poultry, like pigs or chickens.

  20. Worldwide Animal Travel

    Worldwide Animal Travel is a full-service pet relocation company that is dedicated to providing your pet the true VIP travel experience! ... This travel agent's dedication to ensuring a smooth and secure journey for my pets sets them apart as a reliable and customer-focused service. If you are considering travel arrangements, I highly recommend ...

  21. GRADLYN Petshipping

    The Animal Travel Agency -because animal transport is a matter of trust. Welcome to GRADLYN Pet shipping! We are a specialist animal travel agency with 50 years' experience. With animal travel arrangements, it's all a matter of knowledge and expertise - in dealing with animals and humans, and in the preparation, planning, organization ...

  22. Professional Animal Transport Company South Africa

    Animal Travel Service is a proud member of IPATA (the Independent Pet & Animal Transport Association). IPATA is an international network of pet shippers that operate according to a strict code of ethics. We build our business on the feedback we receive from our clients by providing each client with a questionnaire to evaluate our service. This ...

  23. Animal Travel

    Local and International Animal travel services have been operating since 1971. - The absolute first Pet Travel agency in South Africa. Our skilled specialists in Pet Travel and animal relocations will assist you and your pet family to safely relocate whether you are travelling domestically or immigrating we will guide you through every step of ...

  24. When to Use a Travel Agent

    As travel has come roaring back, an agent's superpower is now their access to the best hotel rooms, most in-the-know guides, free amenities, and more, says Cory Hagopian, senior vice president ...

  25. How to Become a Travel Agent: Everything You Need to Know

    The nine-course program also focuses on ethical travel advising, agency law, and travel agency compliance. For ASTA members, the course is $399, and for nonmember independent contractors, it's $598.

  26. Microsoft Advertising Blog

    Travel. Business Type. Advertiser. Partners. Clear filters. Blog post. Unlocking the power and potential of generative AI for advertisers and publishers ... The Microsoft Advertising Global Partner Awards recognize the outstanding work of our valued Agency, Channel, and Technology Partners. March 28, 2024. What's new. Surface Laptop Studio 2 ...