When you find out you're moving, it can feel like information is coming at you from every angle. Between everything you need to plan for yourself, your family, and your pet, it can be hard to know where to even begin. Knowing when to start planning the pet travel portion of your move can help take one thing off your mind.

So, how early should you start planning international pet travel? The answer depends on where you're going, but starting earlier than you think can give you more time to prepare for the requirements along the way.

How Early Should You Start Planning International Pet Travel?

The earlier you can start planning your pet’s move, the better. Some international moves can come together fairly quickly, while others may require several months of preparation depending on the destination and your pet’s specific requirements.

Certain countries have vaccination timelines, blood tests, import permits, health certificates or other requirements that have to be completed within specific timeframes. Starting early gives you time to understand what your pet will need without adding unnecessary last-minute stress to an already busy move.

Why Some International Pet Moves Take Longer to Plan

There isn't one timeline that works for every international pet move. Where your pet is traveling, their vaccination history, the country's import requirements, and even flight availability can all affect how far in advance you need to prepare.

This is why one of the first steps should be finding out exactly what your destination requires. Once you know that, it's much easier to work backward and create a timeline for your pet's move.

When Should You Contact a Pet Relocation Company?

You don't have to wait until every detail of your move is figured out before reaching out to a pet relocation company. In fact, getting in touch early can help you understand what your pet will need and which parts of the process may take the most time.

Even if you only know your approximate destination and moving timeframe, that's enough to start the conversation. A pet relocation company can help you understand the requirements ahead and build a timeline around your pet's move.

If your move is already coming up quickly, don't assume you've waited too long. Reach out and find out what's possible. Some moves can be arranged on a shorter timeline, while others have requirements that simply can't be rushed.

Start Planning Your Pet’s Move

If an international move is in your future, you don’t need to have every detail figured out before getting started. The earlier you understand what your pet will need, the more time you’ll have to prepare.

Planning an international move with your pet? Contact World Pet Travel to tell us where you’re headed and when you’re hoping to move. We will help you figure out what comes next!