How do I relocate my pet to another city or country?
Start early: a few weeks for another city, and often several months for another country, because many countries require a microchip, a rabies vaccine and sometimes a blood test with a waiting period. Check the airline's pet rules and the destination's official requirements, get a vet's health certificate close to the travel date, and get your pet used to its crate well before the trip.
Moving to another city
- Records. Carry your pet's vaccination record, including rabies.
- Health certificate. Airlines and some pet transport services ask for a vet's fitness certificate issued shortly before travel. Ask them how recent it must be.
- Book early. Airlines accept a limited number of pets per flight, and policies on cabin, baggage and cargo differ and change. Check with the airline when you book.
- Crate. Use an airline-approved crate big enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down. Let your pet get used to it for a few weeks.
- By road. Stop every few hours for water and a toilet break, keep your pet secured in a crate or harness, and never leave it in a parked car.
- In the new city. Find a vet before you need one, and update the microchip and ID tag with your new address and number.
Moving to another country
- Start months ahead. Many countries require a microchip, a rabies vaccine given after the microchip, and sometimes a rabies antibody blood test followed by a waiting period. Some also need an import permit or quarantine.
- Check the destination's official rules (its government or embassy website) and the airline's pet rules for your exact route.
- Leaving India. Pets need a health certificate for export from the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS) at the airport, as well as a vet's health certificate. Check the current requirements well before you fly.
- Snub-nosed breeds (Pug, Bulldog, Persian cat) face more breathing risk when flying, and many airlines restrict them. Ask your vet.
- Consider a pet relocation company for international moves: they handle permits, bookings and the paperwork timeline.
By the Pets24x7 team. Updated 13 October 2026.
Pet Relocation Services on Pets24x7
Pets24x7 lists 41 pet relocation services in 13 cities in India.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to relocate a pet abroad?
Anything from a few weeks to several months, depending on the destination. Countries that require a rabies antibody blood test often also require a waiting period after it, so start as early as you can.
Can my dog fly in the cabin?
It depends on the airline, the route and your dog's size; many airlines allow only small pets in a carrier in the cabin, and policies change. Larger dogs usually travel in the hold or as cargo in an approved crate. Ask the airline when you book.
Should I sedate my pet for a flight?
Usually not. Many vets and airlines advise against sedation for flights because it can affect breathing and balance. Talk to your vet about anxiety, and get your pet used to its crate instead.
Do I need a pet relocation company?
Not for most moves within a country. For international moves, a relocation company can save mistakes with permits, tests and timelines, which can otherwise mean a pet is refused at the border.
How many pet relocation services are listed on Pets24x7 in India?
Pets24x7 lists 41 pet relocation services in 13 cities in India. Open your city's page to compare them and send a free enquiry.