Pet Travel

The following information applies mainly to domestic dogs and cats. To obtain further information and advice about shipping your pet overseas or other animals, please contact your local Cathay Pacific Cargo office. Our staff will be happy to help you.

Travel Documentation

The majority of countries require the following documentation for pets travelling to or via their territory:

• Valid import/export permits from the relevant authority of the countries.
• Valid health certificate from a registered veterinarian, stating that the pet is free from rabies and any other diseases.
• Valid vaccination record to show that the pet has received all necessary vaccinations.
• Any additional documentation or validations required by the destination country.
• Transit permits and any other documentation required by the relevant authority of all transit countries.

Some countries require your pet to be microchipped and/or quarantined. Please ensure that you are fully aware of the specific requirements of your destination country.

Please note that these requirements vary from country to country and are subject to change. Please check with local authorities for specific documentary requirements of the destination country and any transit countries, please refer to the publications or websites of local authorities.

Container Requirements

The construction and design of the containers must comply with the IATA Live Animals Regulations. In general, containers must be appropriately sized, well-ventilated, rigid and fitted with solid and leak-proof flooring. In addition, they must comply with the following regulations:

• Containers must be constructed of fibreglass, metal, rigid plastics or welded metal mesh. No wooden cage is allowed.
• Foldable container fixing by removable pin will not be accepted for carriage as it is not a rigid design.
• Containers made entirely of welded mesh or wire mesh will not be accepted.
• Containers must be clean and leakproof.
• Any wheels attached to the container must be removed.
• Animals must be able to stand, turn and lie down in a natural manner.
• Containers must be adequately ventilated, with the majority of the ventilation system being situated in the upper part.
• The maximum size openings in the welded mesh is 25 mm x 25 mm (1 inch x 1 inch) for dog's container, and 19 mm x 19 mm (3/4 inch x 3/4 inch) for cat's container. All openings must be nose and pawproof.
• Water container must be present within the container with outside access for refilling. Water container must be open on the top surface allowing the animal unrestricted access and must be securely affixed to the inside of the shipping container.
• Water bottles or similar dispensers that are attached either inside or outside the shipping container are not considered to be open containers.
• Separate food and water troughs should be provided and easily accessible for replenishment in case of delay.
• All feeding and watering instructions must be provided in writing and affixed to the outside of the container.

Checklist

Advance Arrangement

• Weaned puppies and kittens younger than eight weeks (2 months) will not be accepted for carriage.
• Check the specific export, transit and import requirements for your pet with all destinations and transit countries/cities.
• Refer to the latest DEFRA leaflet or website and observe its requirements if bringing pets into the UK.
• Obtain all required health certificates and vaccination records from a qualified veterinarian and have your pet microchipped if necessary.
• Apply for and obtain any other documentation required by the relevant authorities of all destination and transit countries.
• Contact your local Cathay Pacific Cargo office and the offices of any other carriers to arrange booking for your pet.

Container

• Prepare an appropriate container (not wooden cage, foldable cage) for your pet.
• Affix an open water container inside the container.
• Ensure that your pet can stand, turn and lie down in a natural manner in the container.
• Check that there is enough ventilation space, i.e., unblocked ventilation openings on at least three sides, with the majority of the ventilation space being sited at the top of the container.
• Fix feeding and watering instructions to the container (if any). Food and water, and ensure that they are easily accessible from outside the container.
• Place absorbent bedding on the floor of the container such as cloth or blanket.

On the Day of Departure

• Place a piece of your pet’s favorite toys in the container.
• Remove collars/vests/harnesses from animals prior to crating.
• Attach feeding and watering instructions to the container (if any).Remove any wheels attached to the container.
• Check that your pet looks healthy and fit for travel.
• Give your pet a light meal and a little water no less than two hours prior to departure.
• Toilet your pet before placing it in the container.
• Bring original copies of all relevant certificates and other documentation to checkin.