International Pet Shipping
FAQs
PRE-TRAVEL PREPARATION
Does my pet need to travel with the original rabies certificate? What does “original” mean?
Yes, the original rabies certificate is required for international pet travel. For the Rabies Certificate to be
considered original, it must include the vet’s wet-ink signature. Some countries DO NOT accept digital
signatures or copies of the original so it’s important to confirm with your agent whether your certificate meets
the specific requirements for your destination.
Is an electronic signature from my veterinarian on the rabies certificate acceptable?
Many countries require an original wet signature on the rabies certificate for international travel. It’s best to consult us for guidance.
I already have a crate for my pet. How do I know if it’s valid for travel?
Your crate must meet all IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards for size, ventilation, durability, and security. We can help verify if your crate is suitable via pictures, send links for the correct crate to purchase
on your own, and/or recommend modifications to your current crate if they are needed.
Can I send a bag/luggage of items with my pet?
Airlines DO NOT allow additional bags or items to be sent with your pet in the cargo hold. Only essential items, such as food, leash/collar etc. are permitted.
Can I send medication with my pet? Why are sedatives NOT allowed?
Only veterinarian-prescribed and airline-approved medications are allowed. A prescription must accompany the
pet, please ensure a copy is provided to us for airline approval. SEDATIVES ARE STRICTLY PROHIBITED due to the high risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems at high altitudes. Anti-anxiety medications are often classified as sedatives, which airlines typically DO NOT allow. We need to provide this information to the airline
at the time of booking so let us know ASAP if you plan to send medication with your pet.
Do I need to provide live animal stickers or attach anything to the crate?
We will provide ALL stickers required. We will also tape items on the crate AFTER the airline checks the crate during the security screening. Do NOT tape or secure anything to the crate without our approval first.
TRAVEL PROCESS
Will my pet fly on the same flight as me?
Feathers and Fur Pet Express is NOT responsible for any flight arrangements you make for yourself and/or
family. In some cases, your pet can be booked on the same flight. However, this depends on airline availability,
the type of aircraft flown (Cargo Hold Space), and pet travel policies for that specific airline
Will someone be flying with my pet?
No. Pets travel independently in the cargo hold. The airline’s animal handling team will oversee their care during
the loading/unloading and at any layovers.
How long will my pet be in the crate?
Your pet will remain in their crate from after security check/check-in at the airport until arrival at the
destination, except during layovers, where they will be given ample space, food and water in a secure animal
handling area.
Can you guarantee the flight date?
While we strive to secure your requested flight date, schedules are subject to airline availability. We can NOT
guarantee your requested flight date will be available.
Why does my pet need to check in 4-6 hours before the flight?
The airlines require this timeframe. This allows for the thorough processing of your pet, including document
verification, and crate inspection. It also ensures there’s ample time for your pet to be safely and securely loaded onto the flight. Every airline is different with their time requirement, so your agent will let you know what time is best.
Will I need to bring my pet to the airport myself, or do you handle the pickup?
Anyone can deliver your pets on departure day. Please provide us their contact information. We also have an optional add-on service for pick up and transport to the airport.
What happens during my pet’s layover?
During layovers, pets are cared for by ground staff in the airline’s designated animal handling area. They are provided food, water, and ample space. Their experience is similar to a boarding facility. Pets will not be placed back into their crates until it’s time to board the next flight.
What happens if there are delays during the journey?
Airlines have protocols in place to ensure pets are cared for during unexpected delays. We’ll monitor your pet’s journey and communicate if any changes arise. No worries, with FFE there is always a solution!
How is the cargo area prepared for pets?
The cargo hold is temperature-controlled, and pressurized.
POST-ARRIVAL & CUSTOMS CLEARANCE
Can I clear my own pets through customs?
In most cases, you can clear your pet through customs, but it depends on the destination and airlines requirements. If customs clearance is listed as required on your quote, then we will assign an agent in the destination country to complete the
customs clearance on your behalf. However, if it’s listed as an optional add-on, you have the option to clear your pet yourself or hire and agent on your own. While the process can be time-consuming, many people choose to handle it themselves when
permitted to save on cost.
What is the process for self-customs clearance? (GENERAL ADVICE ONLY as we cannot be in all countries at all times)
Arrive 1-2 hours after your pet lands to start clearance. Confirm customs hours of operations. The process may take 2–6 hours (longer for Central/South America). The airline will direct you through the process but we highly recommend you confirm the items needed, fees, how to pay, the pickup time and address with the airline/customs so the process goes as smoothly as possible. At minimum, bring the Airway Bill #, passport, proof of travel/residency, and supplies for crate cleanup (trash bag, water, paper towels etc.). DO NOT take the original health documents with you to the destination country as they MUST travel with your pet. You can take copies, but it’s not required.
Where will my pet be while waiting for me to pick them up?
Each airport has different pet accommodations. Upon arrival at airports with pet facilities (ie: FRA, CDG, AMS, LHR, DXB, DOH, MUC, BRU) your pet will be cared for in a designated pet car area until customs clearance is completed and will not be stuck in the crate. Other smaller locations do not have animal facilities, and you must arrive promptly to pick your pets up to avoid excessive time in the crate. We will provide more specific details and pick up address on our Transport Details Email sent out about a week before departure.
FEES AND SERVICES
What is the non-military veterinarian fee, and what service does it cover?
The non-military vet fee covers the preparation, review, FedEx shipping, and USDA endorsement of your pet’s health certificates when you use a non-military accredited veterinarian. This ensures the documents meet the
destination country requirements, and most of the fee goes to USDA and FedEx expenses. If you see a military vet for the health certificate appointment, this fee does not apply since the additional expenses are not incurred.
Are there additional fees I should be aware of?
Additional fees may apply depending on your destination and the services required or requested. We’ll provide a detailed cost breakdown during the planning process. Key fees to be aware of include:
-
Weekend Fee: Fee applies if your pet TRAVELS on a weekend or Federal holiday. Clearing agents might also have weekend arrival fees not included in the quote.
- Applies to weekend home pick ups as well. Monday departures are not recommended.
- Rush Fee: Applies if required documents are not received at least 14 days before departure (Order Form, ID/Passports, Rabies Certificates). Note: the quote is NOT the order form.
-
Unaccompanied Pet: Applies if the pet is not traveling within 5 days of the owner/family/friend, or when ownership changes, or for over 5 pets.
- Fee is waived for military moves using a military veterinarian.
- Pets typically must depart on a Wednesday for this type of travel.
-
Home Pick Up and Delivery to U.S. Airport: Optional add-on for pickup and drop-off.
- Home pick up within city limits listed in the quote. Military bases excluded.
- Long distance pick ups may require boarding (vaccines required).
-
Customs Clearance & Home Delivery: Optional add-on; some countries require a clearance agent.
- Home delivery only within city limits.
- Assumes weekday arrival and clearance during business hours.
-
Non-Military Vet Fee: Applies when a non-military vet handles the health certificate.
- If declined, you and your vet handle USDA endorsement without our involvement.
- Crate Fee: Applies if we supply the crate. Payment is required before shipping.
We’ll treat your pets as our own
Every team member at FFexpress is also a pet parent, so we know just how important your fur baby is to you. We only use the best airlines and facilities to ensure your pet is receiving the best care possible.
If you require more information, please