Relocating a pet is a major logistical challenge, and it’s one that many owners underestimate, especially when planning to move during school holidays.
Whether you’re heading overseas for a new job, returning home with your pet, or bringing a new animal into the UK, one thing is certain: the timing makes a difference.
At Airpets, we’ve transported tens of thousands of pets since 1966, and one of the most common issues we help solve is late or rushed bookings. These are often made just as flights, vets, and cargo space are filling up fast.
In this article, let’s look at why planning ahead is essential for transporting pets, especially during busy seasons.
School Holidays and Peak Travel Seasons: Why It’s a Problem
Certain times of the year are busier than others, particularly around Christmas, summer holidays, and half-term breaks. Families tend to move during these times, often to align with school calendars or job start dates.
Unfortunately, this increased demand affects everything from available flights to animal transport services and even vet appointments.
If you type ‘move my pet’ into Google a few weeks before your desired departure date during a school break, chances are you’ll struggle to secure a smooth and timely relocation. Space for pet travel in the aircraft hold is limited, and bookings must be made separately from passenger tickets, often with their own restrictions and requirements.
Why Planning Ahead is Critical for Pet Transport
1. Cargo Space for Pets Is Limited
Unlike us, pets travel in the aircraft’s cargo hold. They have to be in airline-approved travel crates. Most airlines have strict quotas on how many pets can travel on a single flight. During busy travel seasons, that space fills up quickly, especially on international routes.
Booking early gives us the best chance of securing a direct, low-stress route for your pet.
2. Paperwork for Transporting Pets Takes Time
Every country has its own requirements for bringing in pets: some more complex than others. Depending on your destination, you might need:
- Rabies vaccinations and waiting periods
- Microchipping and health certificates
- Government export documents
- Import permits and customs clearance
- Blood tests (e.g. rabies titre test for certain destinations)
Many of these documents must be completed within specific time frames: some as early as six months before departure.
3. Flight Routes and Weather Restrictions
Certain countries or airlines impose seasonal restrictions based on weather. For example, during hot summer months, pets may not be permitted to fly through specific transit hubs due to temperature risks in the cargo hold. Cold weather can also restrict travel on some routes.
Planning ahead allows us to find the most appropriate and pet-friendly travel solution, using airlines that prioritise animal welfare and comply with international regulations.
How Airpets Makes Pet Travel Simple
At Airpets, our entire service is built to make international pet transport smooth and stress-free, for both animals and owners. We offer a door-to-door solution, including:
Direct Airline Bookings
We’re an IATA-accredited agent, meaning we book directly with airlines: no third parties, no delays. Early planning allow us to secure preferred flights with optimal routing and temperature conditions for your pet.
An On-site Veterinary Team
Our in-house veterinary clinic, Travelvet, ensures your pet gets the medical attention and documentation needed for travel. During busy periods, in-house access to vets means fewer delays and more control over the timeline.
A Handy Home Collection Service
Our experienced drivers can collect your pet from anywhere in mainland UK in our climate-controlled fleet. This saves you time and ensures safe, professional handling right from your doorstep. During school holidays, this service is in high demand, so it’s best to book early.
A Heathrow-Based Animal Lounge
We operate a licensed, 5-star rated animal lounge on the perimeter of Heathrow Airport. This allows pets to rest and acclimatise before or after a flight. With less time in a crate, your pet stays as comfortable and relaxed as possible, even during peak seasons.
Key Tips for Moving Pets During Busy Periods
To avoid unnecessary stress or disappointment, here’s what we recommend:
- Start planning at least 3 to 6 months ahead of your move, especially if it coincides with school holidays or holiday travel seasons.
- Get your pet’s vaccinations and microchip status up to date early. Some destinations require rabies vaccinations to be done months in advance.
- Begin crate training well in advance. We provide airline-approved crates that meet all international requirements and can guide you through the acclimatisation process.
- Trust your pet to professionals who understand the evolving requirements for each country. We keep on top of changing international regulations and streamline the process for you.
Get in Touch Today
We’re here to keep your family together, no matter where life takes you. With thousands of successful relocations under our belt, Airpets is your trusted partner in international pet transport.
Contact us today or use our website to get a quote and start planning your pet’s journey today.