Our pets inevitably become our family, whether we consciously choose it or not. For every smug declaration of ‘my dog won’t be allowed on the sofa’ or ‘no way is the cat sleeping on the bed’ is a person who now loves nothing more than to cuddle up with their fur baby after a long day. With endearing faces and the inability to talk back, pets become a cherished part of the house that we can’t imagine life without. So, when it comes to moving house, particularly moving interstate, it’s normal to want what’s best for them just like the rest of the family. That’s why this blog talks you through everything you need to know about moving your pets interstate, so that you can be happy knowing that they’re happy.
Before Moving
Before you set off on your new adventure across states, it’s important to make sure that your pets are prepped and ready to go. A couple of months before moving, whilst you’re working through updating documents and organising your home to move, it’s a good idea to book in your dog or cat with the vet to check over their health and make sure they’re fit for the trip. Moving can be stressful for your pets just as it is for you, so ensuring that there are no underlying conditions or health problems will help create ease when it comes to moving. Also, this gives you the perfect opportunity for you to speak with your vet about what they think would be the best transport options for your pet.
Also, it’s a good idea to speak with your interstate removalists to see if they are also able to arrange pet transportation. As well as moving your belongings across state, companies that are highly reputable will also be able to take care of your pet relocation for you and organise professional transport for your precious fur babies so that there is one less thing off your plate to worry about.
The Travel
When relocating with pets there are two main routes you can take; by flight or by vehicle transfer. With each choice offering both positives and negatives, knowing which option best suits you and your pet is essential to making it a smooth transition into your new home.
If you’re planning on hopping on a plane to reach your interstate destination then you might be wondering if your furry family member can do the same. While flying is definitely a quick way to get your pet from A to B, it can be quite a complicated process. Each state has its own set of rules (Tasmania, for instance, likes to keep things interesting with special declaration forms), so you'll want to do your homework on both where you're leaving from and where you're headed.
Is flying stressful for pets?
Although you believe your pet to be an angel with four legs, not everyone would agree and so, unfortunately, as it stands no airlines allow pets to travel in cabin with you in Australia. Therefore, the airlines that will enable pet transport require them to be transported in specific crates with checked luggage. If your fur baby normally has free reign of the house and is not used to being in crates, then they could find the restriction slightly stressful. Getting their crate in advance and getting them comfortable in it can help to avoid this whilst travelling. Either way though, flying interstate in Australia will take no more than five hours and so the shorter journey makes it less stressful for them than say an international flight of 12 hours.
What is the best airline for pets in Australia?
Generally, the most pet-friendly airlines within Australia are Qantas and Virgin Australia which both offer the possibility of flying your pets via their cargo hold area. Also, whilst not yet in play, Virgin Australia has also committed to enrolling the option of flying your pets in the cabin with you for most domestic flights starting in March 2025. A win for you and your four-legged friend!
Transport via vehicle
Alternatively, if you’re not travelling too far or if your pet is over 65kg with their container (sorry to all the chunky fur children) then pet transport interstate by road may be a better option for you. Although a longer journey, pet transportation services will often stop every couple of hours to ensure that your furry friend gets a chance to stretch their legs and do what they need to do before getting on the move again (Dogtainers).
If you are already working with professional removalists for your interstate move then finding a reliable vehicle transfer will likely be something that they are able to arrange for you.
How much does it cost to transport a dog interstate in Australia?
Pet travel can cost anywhere from $100 to $1000 based on the pet’s size, the transport option or the length of travel, so it’s important to seek quotes from various places before committing to one company.
Settling in
Once you have reached your new home and are reunited with your four-legged family member it’s good to get them settled in as quickly as possible. One of the first things you should do is register your pet with a new vet and with the council. This may mean having your little furry friend microchipped or given a health assessment, based on the local area's requirements. During this period, also take the time to help get your pet acquainted with their new home - maybe try to place their favourite toys or their bed/cage up in a spot so that the space feels familiar. Most importantly, be patient with them. Just as you are learning to adjust to your new surroundings, so are they. If their behaviour is a little different for the first week or so, give them time to adjust and before you know it you will all be enjoying life in your new home.
If you are soon to be moving interstate, let Holloway Removals & Storage help navigate you there. Providing exceptional customer service and expert knowledge, our removalists are always here to help with any task that you may have along the way. Whether that’s packing your belongings or helping your fur babies get safely to their new home, there is no stone left unturned!
