I am sitting here in my new living room in Lisbon, watching my golden retriever, Max, nap in a patch of sunlight. It is hard to believe that just a few months ago, I was back in the United States, pulling my hair out and wondering how I would ever get him across the Atlantic Ocean. Moving to a new country is a giant task. Moving with a pet is an even bigger mountain to climb. I spent hundreds of hours researching the Top Pet Relocation Services from the US to Europe to make sure Max was safe.
The process is a massive puzzle. Paperwork. Vaccines. Crates. It is a lot to handle. I want to share my journey and the best tips I found so you do not have to feel as lost as I did. First of all, you need to know that your pet is not just luggage. They are family.
Why I Chose a Professional Relocation Service
I originally thought I could handle the move myself. I was wrong. The rules for entering Europe are very strict. If you make one small mistake on a form, your pet could face a four-month quarantine or even be sent back home. That was a risk I was not willing to take. Therefore, I looked for the best international pet relocation services to guide me.
Professional companies act like travel agents for animals. They handle the flight bookings and the complex customs paperwork. On top of that, they ensure you have an IATA-compliant travel crate that fits your pet perfectly. I found out that most airlines do not even allow you to book a pet as cargo unless you use a registered agent.
The Best Pet Shipping Companies I Discovered
During my search, a few names kept coming up. I wanted a company with experience and a heart.
1. WorldCare Pet Transport
This company is a powerhouse based in the US. They have completed over 28,000 pet relocations since 1999. They do not just move cats and dogs. They also handle rabbits, hamsters, and even horses. What I loved most was their 4.9-star rating on Google. They assign you a Senior Pet Relocation Counselor who manages everything from your door in the US to your new door in Europe. They even have a pet protection plan that covers up to $1,000 in vet fees if something goes wrong during travel.
2. Starwood Pet Travel
I also looked closely at Starwood Pet Travel. They have been in the business for over 40 years. They are members of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA). They are famous for their transparent pricing and a great pet travel portal where you can track your furry friend. I read a review from a user named Molly who said her dog arrived happy and healthy thanks to their responsiveness. Starwood is often ranked as the number one choice in many expert guides.
3. Air Animal Pet Movers
If you are worried about your pet’s health, Air Animal Pet Movers is a fantastic choice. A veterinarian founded this company in 1977. They are experts in pet health certificates and USDA endorsements. I found their online videos very helpful for learning how to measure Max for his crate. Similarly, they have a mobile app that keeps you in the loop during the whole journey.
4. Airpets International
This company is perfect if you want a luxury experience for your pet. They offer first-class air transportation and even have grooming and exercise programs. They use IATA-approved sky kennels and have vets on staff to make sure everything is perfect. Though they can be a bit more expensive, the peace of mind is worth it.
International Pet Shipping Costs: What to Expect
Let us talk about the money. It is not cheap. The pet relocation services cost can vary wildly depending on your pet’s size and where you are going.
On average, the pet transport europe cost starts around $2,000 for a small animal but can go up to $7,500 for larger dogs or complex routes. I found a few specific numbers during my research:
- Average cost for a pet shipping company: $2,526.
- Shipping a large dog to the UK: Roughly $6,000.
- In-cabin transport (small pets): Between $1,600 and $2,500.
- Basic ground transport: Starts around $300 for short trips.
You also have to factor in the international pet shipping costs for vet visits. A health certificate in the US can cost between $100 and $350. A rabies vaccine is usually about $55, and a microchip is around $45. It adds up quickly. Therefore, you should always get at least three quotes before you decide on a company.
Navigating the Paperwork Maze
The documentation is the hardest part. It felt like I was applying for a top-secret clearance for Max. Here is the checklist you must follow.
First of all, the Microchip. Your pet must have an ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip. It is very important that the chip is implanted BEFORE the rabies vaccine is given. If you do it in the wrong order, the vaccine is considered invalid for travel.
Later, the Rabies Vaccination. Most European countries require the vaccine to be at least 21 days old before the pet can enter. For some countries, you might even need a rabies antibody titer test. This is a blood test that proves the vaccine worked. It can take 3 to 6 months to complete this process, so you must start early.
Finally, the Health Certificate. You need a Great Britain pet health certificate for the UK or an EU health certificate for the rest of Europe. A USDA-accredited veterinarian must sign this within 10 days of your arrival. Then, it must be endorsed by the USDA.
How Do Pets Actually Fly?
I was terrified of Max being alone on a plane. I spent hours reading about international pet relocation services reddit threads to see what other people said. I learned there are three main ways pets travel.
- In-Cabin: This is for very small dogs and cats (usually under 8kg or 17lbs). They stay in a soft carrier under the seat in front of you. Airlines like KLM, Lufthansa, and Air France are great for this.
- Checked Baggage: The pet stays in a temperature-controlled hold on the same flight as you. This is getting less common for international moves.
- Manifest Cargo: This is the safest and most professional way for pets to travel internationally. They travel as a “live animal shipment” handled by experts. This is the only way some countries, like the UK, allow pets to arrive.
I chose manifest cargo. Max was handled by trained staff and stayed in the Frankfurt Animal Lounge during his layover. They gave him food, water, and a comfortable bed. They even sent me a photo of him looking relaxed!.
Special Rules for Different Countries
Europe is not one giant block with the same rules. Each country has its own quirks.
- The United Kingdom: You must use an approved route and airline. Dogs need a tapeworm treatment given by a vet 1 to 5 days before arrival. Also, certain breeds like Pit Bulls and XL Bullies are prohibited.
- Portugal: They recently changed their rules. The owner must arrive within 5 days BEFORE the pet, or it counts as a commercial move. They also want to see your actual boarding pass, not just a booking confirmation.
- France and Germany: These are generally easier, but you still need all the core paperwork. If you fly into Frankfurt or Amsterdam, your pet gets the best care at their world-famous animal hotels.
Avoiding the Scammers
I noticed many fake websites while I was looking for pet relocation services near me. Scammers are everywhere. They often post ads for free puppies and then ask for money for “insurance” or “better crates”.
Here is how to stay safe:
- Check for IPATA membership. Legitimate companies are almost always members.
- Look for a physical address. If they only have a contact form, run away.
- Avoid untraceable payments. Never pay with Western Union or gift cards.
- Talk to a human. Ask for a video call to see their office or staff.
My Personal Tips for a Smooth Move
Gradually, I learned that the secret to a happy pet is preparation.
First of all, you must crate train your pet. Start at least four weeks early. Put treats and blankets inside so they see it as a safe “den”. Later, think about the weather. Many airlines have heat embargoes. If it is too hot on the runway, they will not let your pet fly. I moved in the spring to avoid the summer heat. Also, do not sedate your pet. It is actually dangerous at high altitudes and most airlines will refuse to fly a sedated animal.
Finally, communicate with your vet. Make sure they are USDA-accredited. If they make a typo on the microchip number, it can cause a huge drama at customs.
FAQ
Can I ship my goldfish or other aquatic pets to Europe?
First of all, you should know that most top pet relocation services do not handle fish. These animals are very difficult to ship safely. You must find a specialist for this task. Plus, most general transporters will not even accept them.
Are there specific dog breeds that cannot enter Europe?
Yes, there are. Great Britain prohibits specific breeds such as the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and XL Bully. Therefore, you must check the breed rules for your destination early. It is a very important step.
Should I give my pet medicine to sleep during the long flight?
No. You must not sedate your pet for air travel. Airlines will actually refuse to fly an animal that is sedated because of health risks at high altitudes. It is much safer for them to stay awake. No exceptions.
What exactly is a “Pet Nanny” service?
A pet nanny is a professional who stays with your furry friend during the entire move. This service usually involves the nanny carrying a small pet in the cabin. On top of that, it provides a luxury experience for pets that need extra care.
How do I find the right size for a travel crate?
You follow a specific formula from the International Air Transport Association. First of all, measure the length of the animal from the nose to the base of the tail. Later, find the height to the elbow and the height in a standing position. Use these numbers to ensure the crate allows the pet to stand and turn. Proper fit is everything.
What is the average price for these services?
The average cost for a pet shipping service is about $2,526. However, this number can change based on the size of your animal and the distance of the trip. On top of that, larger crates and international routes always cost more.
Concluding Words
Is it worth the cost? Yes. I paid for a service, and it was the best money I ever spent. I used a company that handled the paperwork and the flight logistics. Max arrived in Lisbon tail-wagging and ready to explore.
If you are looking for the best pet shipping companies, I highly recommend starting with WorldCare Pet or Air Animal. They know the rules inside and out. Plus, they treat your pet like family, which is the most important thing.
The move was stressful. However, seeing Max happy in our new home made it all worthwhile. Take your time, do your research, and keep this guide handy. You and your furry friend will be sipping coffee at a European cafe before you know it! Safe travels to you and your furry co-pilots.
