---
title: Pet Transport for New Zealand | Starwood Pet Travel
description: Let the experts ship your pet to or from New Zealand and ensure a peaceful and safe arrival. Make pet transportation easy with our services.
---

## Your pet’s safe trip to or from New Zealand starts here

[ Get a quote ](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/quote-request)

[ Moving to New Zealand ](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/new-zealand#moving-to) [ Moving from New Zealand ](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/new-zealand#moving-from)

![New Zealand outline](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/hubfs/New%20Zealand.png)

### W e ' r e   D i f f e r e n t

## Pets, not packages - expect more

We’re proud to be the highest rated and most trusted international pet shipping company in the United States.

![plane](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/hubfs/New%20website%202026/plane.svg)

#### Decades of experience

Trust our expert team of coordinators, with the most collective industry experience (and all the 5-star reviews to prove it!).

[ Learn more → ](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/)

#### Technology

Industry-leading [Pet Travel Portal](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/pet-travel-portal/) to make things simple & clear.

[ Learn more → ](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/)

#### Pet Protection Plan

Coverage for every dog or cat ensuring your peace of mind throughout their journey.

[ Learn more → ](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/)

#### Stay in touch

The only US-based company to partner with CareTags Travel Sense to provide automated updates throughout your pet’s move via email & text.

[ Learn more → ](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/)

### S t a r w o o d   F a c t o r

## What sets us apart

Read stories traveling to and from 🇳🇿 New Zealand

#### Testimonials

 147 days ago

Sage and the team at Starwood are great. We moved our two 9 year old kitties from the US to New Zealand. They kept us on the ball, helped coordinate all of the vet visits and made sure things were rea...

Ezekiel Watts

 ✈️ United States → New Zealand

 🐱 Two Cats' Big Trip to New Zealand

 Read more →

![Two Cats' Big Trip to New Zealand's pet](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/505287/hubfs/nz-%5E%CC%AE%20%CC%AE%5E.webp?width=400&height=400&name=nz-%5E%CC%AE%20%CC%AE%5E.webp)

 151 days ago

Making the move from Washington, USA to New Zealand was one of the biggest decisions our family has ever made, and there was no way we were leaving our fur babies behind. Starwood Pet made what could ...

Mikayla Clabbatz

 ✈️ United States → New Zealand

 🐱 Nyx and Jupiter's Trip to New Zealand

 Read more →

![Nyx and Jupiter's Trip to New Zealand's pet](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/husky.webp?width=800)

 151 days ago

Starwood is an amazing pet transport service full of animal lovers! It's clear that they care for you pets like their own and are willing to go the extra mile to ease the pain of moving internationall...

Courtney Sarpy

 ✈️ United States → New Zealand

 🐱 Mochi's Trip to New Zealand

 Read more →

![Mochi's Trip to New Zealand's pet](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/mochicat.webp?width=800)

 206 days ago

We flew our two vizslas to New Zealand from LAX with Starwood Pet Travel. They were very good about communication before, during, and after the flight. It was a stressful process and they made it as e...

Leanne Milburn Rhodes

 ✈️ United States → New Zealand

 🐱 Maya & Callie's Trip to New Zealand

 Read more →

![Maya & Callie's Trip to New Zealand's pet](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/reviewnewnew.webp?width=800)

 267 days ago

I reached out to Starwood to help me relocate my 14 yo Yorkie to New Zealand. Sage was assigned to me as my coordinator and she was amazing! She was very helpful and responsive every step of the way. ...

Mae Flener

 ✈️ United States → New Zealand

 🐱 Tyncee's Trip to New Zealand

 Read more →

![Tyncee's Trip to New Zealand's pet](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/Tyncee2.webp?width=800)

 332 days ago

They are the best!!!! The process of flying Bailey to NZ was tough but everything went as smooth as possible.

Maria Caudal

 ✈️ United States → New Zealand

 🐱 Bailey's Trip to New Zealand

 Read more →

![Bailey's Trip to New Zealand's pet](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/bailey.webp?width=800)

 366 days ago

I highly recommend Starwood Pet Travel. Our journey was amazing with this company, and we are very thankful with the support and consistent communication. Tiggie flew from San Francisco, United States...

Ashley Tyson

 ✈️ United States → New Zealand

 🐱 Tiggle's Trip to New Zealand

 Read more →

![Tiggle's Trip to New Zealand's pet](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/tiggle.webp?width=800)

 545 days ago

Starwood Pet Travel took very good care of our dog, Sierra in her journey to New Zealand. The process leading up to her travel was smooth. They kept in contact with us during every step of the process...

 ✈️ United States → New Zealand

 🐱 Sierra

 Read more →

![Sierra's pet](https://50936337.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/50936337/New%20website%202026/testi-img-logo.svg)

 599 days ago

I was very grateful to have Starwood Pet help me get my cats moved. Even though I had done it once before, I still had a lot of questions and they were always around to help answer and support us thro...

 ✈️ United States → New Zealand

 🐱 Pansy and Lilac

 Read more →

![Pansy and Lilac's pet](https://50936337.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/50936337/New%20website%202026/testi-img-logo.svg)

#### Review from Ezekiel Watts

×

![Review Image](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/nz-%5E%CC%AE%20%CC%AE%5E.webp)

 147 days ago

Sage and the team at Starwood are great. We moved our two 9 year old kitties from the US to New Zealand. They kept us on the ball, helped coordinate all of the vet visits and made sure things were ready to go for each step of the process. Our boys arrived safe and sound thanks to Starwood. I would highly recommend them to anyone moving pets internationally.

- Ezekiel Watts

**Source: [Google](https://share.google/h3fqCkdYsDKZyExVG) **

[View more reviews →](https://www.starwoodpet.com/pet-shipping-testimonials)

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#### Review from Mikayla Clabbatz

×

![Review Image](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/husky.webp)

 151 days ago

Making the move from Washington, USA to New Zealand was one of the biggest decisions our family has ever made, and there was no way we were leaving our fur babies behind. Starwood Pet made what could have been a stressful and overwhelming process feel smooth and completely manageable. From the very beginning, they guided us through every step — coordinating vet appointments, handling paperwork, and making sure all requirements were met for international travel. Their communication was excellent, and they were always available to answer our questions and keep us updated. A special shoutout to Rosemary Cann, our pet coordinator, who went above and beyond for us. She was organized, responsive, and incredibly caring. We truly felt like our pets were in the best hands with her. When it came time to drop our pets off, we received regular updates throughout their journey, including photos and notes from their handlers, which gave us so much peace of mind. We were notified when they landed safely and kept informed during the entire quarantine process as well. Starwood Pet made relocating with our animals feel effortless. We’re so grateful for their professionalism, compassion, and attention to detail. We would absolutely recommend them to anyone moving with their pets! So thank you again from Nyx the Husky and Jupiter the cat!!

- Mikayla Clabbatz

**Source: [Google](https://share.google/dqHgPKGkS22BdBs3p) **

[View more reviews →](https://www.starwoodpet.com/pet-shipping-testimonials)

Close

#### Review from Courtney Sarpy

×

![Review Image](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/mochicat.webp)

 151 days ago

Starwood is an amazing pet transport service full of animal lovers! It's clear that they care for you pets like their own and are willing to go the extra mile to ease the pain of moving internationally.

- Courtney Sarpy

**Source: [Google](https://share.google/HU9qOSQnyZ7MuHZ9d) **

[View more reviews →](https://www.starwoodpet.com/pet-shipping-testimonials)

Close

#### Review from Leanne Milburn Rhodes

×

![Review Image](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/reviewnewnew.webp)

 206 days ago

We flew our two vizslas to New Zealand from LAX with Starwood Pet Travel. They were very good about communication before, during, and after the flight. It was a stressful process and they made it as easy as they could!

- Leanne Milburn Rhodes

**Source: [Google](https://share.google/EVD7addQ0JcHJHKlt) **

[View more reviews →](https://www.starwoodpet.com/pet-shipping-testimonials)

Close

#### Review from Mae Flener

×

![Review Image](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/Tyncee2.webp)

 267 days ago

I reached out to Starwood to help me relocate my 14 yo Yorkie to New Zealand. Sage was assigned to me as my coordinator and she was amazing! She was very helpful and responsive every step of the way. They were a huge help and really eased my mind. They really took the stress out of the whole process. If you need to move your pet I highly recommend going with Starwood. They are worth it!

- Mae Flener

**Source: [Google](https://share.google/UbuuQgCDoQuggASYk) **

[View more reviews →](https://www.starwoodpet.com/pet-shipping-testimonials)

Close

#### Review from Maria Caudal

×

![Review Image](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/bailey.webp)

 332 days ago

They are the best!!!! The process of flying Bailey to NZ was tough but everything went as smooth as possible.

- Maria Caudal

**Source: [Google](https://maps.app.goo.gl/feV4TJoS9mkmQLR57) **

[View more reviews →](https://www.starwoodpet.com/pet-shipping-testimonials)

Close

#### Review from Ashley Tyson

×

![Review Image](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/505287/tiggle.webp)

 366 days ago

I highly recommend Starwood Pet Travel. Our journey was amazing with this company, and we are very thankful with the support and consistent communication.

Tiggie flew from San Francisco, United States to Auckland, New Zealand via Air New Zealand. They guided me through the whole process from day 1, all the way to the end. Starting from scratch with absolutely no idea what to do, they gave me all the best resources and advice. The travel crate was a perfect size, where he still had plenty of room to move, stretch and be comfortable.

I was partnered with Sage Ingle as my pet travel coordinator, and no better words could describe her ongoing support and guidance. She was absolutely amazing, and always went above and beyond with any questions I had. I was dealing with this situation from New Zealand, while my cat and partner was still overseas, it wasn't easy.. but she made it come true. My cat Tiggie was thoroughly taken care of by Sage and her team before departure and he is very ecstatic to be back home safe and sound. Thank you Ross for getting in touch from my initial inquiry, Starwood team, handler/driver Danny and most of all Sage. You've all outdone yourselves and should be proud for what you all do!

- Ashley Tyson

**Source: [Google](https://maps.app.goo.gl/4nQLQWRh1NLtB5mR6) **

[View more reviews →](https://www.starwoodpet.com/pet-shipping-testimonials)

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×

 545 days ago

Starwood Pet Travel took very good care of our dog, Sierra in her journey to New Zealand. The process leading up to her travel was smooth. They kept in contact with us during every step of the process. Our travel coordinator Sage was very responsive and answered all our questions quickly. The forms and paperwork were organized nicely on the online portal and it was nice that there were very specific timelines for everything. The resources shared on the Starwood Pet Travel website were very helpful, especially the videos which walked us through the process. We were very appreciative that our pup was able to make it to New Zealand safely without any issues. Thank you Starwood Pet Travel!

**Source: Google **

[View more reviews →](https://www.starwoodpet.com/pet-shipping-testimonials)

Close

×

 599 days ago

I was very grateful to have Starwood Pet help me get my cats moved. Even though I had done it once before, I still had a lot of questions and they were always around to help answer and support us through the move. Although we’ve made our final move, I wouldn’t hesitate to use their trusting sources again.

**Source: Google **

[View more reviews →](https://www.starwoodpet.com/pet-shipping-testimonials)

Close

#### Stories

#### Puff's Trip to Auckland

 ✈️ LAX-AKL

Puff arrived in Auckland with the quiet confidence of a cat who knows she’s the main character. Fresh from Arizona, this sweet-and-spicy cuddle queen wasted no time reclaiming her throne—demanding att...

[Read full story →](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/our-stories/puff-auckland)

![Puff's pet](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/505287/hubfs/puff-story.webp?upscale=false&width=400&height=400&name=puff-story.webp)

#### Rookie and Henry's Trip to New Zealand

 ✈️ MIA-CHC

When Henry and Rookie finally bounded out of their travel crates, tails wagging and eyes bright, it felt like the whole world exhaled with them. The long journey to New Zealand had been nerve-wracking...

[Read full story →](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/our-stories/rookie-henry-new-zealand)

![Rookie and Henry's pet](https://505287.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/505287/hubfs/rookie%20(1).webp?upscale=false&width=400&height=400&name=rookie%20(1).webp)

## Moving to New Zealand

 How to Ship a Pet to New Zealand

### How to Ship a Pet to New Zealand

Need to bring your pet to the New Zealand? Learn about costs, airline rules, cargo vs cabin travel, and how to safely transport your dog or cat from the US with Starwood Pet Travel.

Moving a pet to New Zealand requires careful planning due to the country's strict biosecurity regulations designed to protect its unique ecosystem. Pet owners often find the process challenging, but with proper preparation, it can be navigated successfully. **Shipping a pet to New Zealand typically costs between $6,000 to over $10,000**, which includes permits, veterinary requirements, quarantine fees, and transportation.

The journey begins months before travel, as pets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and undergo specific tests including a rabies antibody titer test. All dogs and cats entering New Zealand must complete a minimum 10-day quarantine period at an approved facility upon arrival, with no exceptions for pets coming from the United States.

It's important to note that certain dog breeds are prohibited from entering New Zealand, including American Pit Bull Terriers and Dogo Argentinos. Working with a professional pet relocation service can help pet owners navigate the complex requirements and ensure their furry family members arrive safely at their new home.

 Eligibility for Import

### Eligibility for Import 

New Zealand maintains stringent biosecurity measures to protect its unique ecosystem from foreign diseases and pests. Successfully importing pets requires meticulous preparation and compliance with specific health protocols designed to safeguard both native wildlife and domestic animals.

Pets must come from an approved country with acceptable rabies status to be eligible for import to New Zealand. The United States is an approved country, but import requirements vary based on the originating nation.

All pets must be microchipped with an ISO-compatible chip before any vaccinations or testing procedures. This microchip serves as the permanent identification for all documentation.

The pet must have lived in the exporting country for at least 6 months (or since birth) prior to travel. The animal must also be healthy and fit to travel, without signs of infectious or contagious disease.

Pregnant animals cannot be imported, and pets must be over 12 weeks of age at the time of rabies vaccination

 Banned Breeds

### Banned Breeds

**Prohibited dog breeds**:

- American Pit Bull Terrier
  
   
- Brazilian Fila
  
   
- Dogo Argentino
  
   
- Japanese Tosa
  
   
- Perro de Presa Canario
  
   
- Wolf hybrids or dogs with wolf ancestry are strictly prohibited.

Birds, reptiles, amphibians, and most other exotic pets are generally not permitted for import as pets.

 Import Permit

### Import Permit 

Pets traveling from the USA to New Zealand require an import permit. This can only be completed after the microchip, rabies vaccinations, blood test, OVD, and quarantine booking are completed.

MPI needs **at least 30 working days** to process the online application for an import permit.

 Microchip

### Microchip 

Microchipping is mandatory for pets entering New Zealand. **The microchip must be ISO-compliant (either 15-digit ISO 11784 or ISO 11785) and implanted before rabies vaccinations and testing.**

If your pet already has a non-ISO compliant chip, don't remove it. Instead, implant an additional ISO-compliant chip and document both numbers on all paperwork. Veterinarians should scan the microchip at each visit to verify its functionality.

Proper identification goes beyond microchipping. Attach secure identification tags to your pet's collar with your current contact information and destination details. Include a temporary tag with flight information and your New Zealand accommodation address.

 Vaccinations

### Vaccinations 

##### Rabies Vaccination

- The rabies vaccine must be given **after** microchip implantation
- Primary vaccination - must be completed more than six months and less than one year prior to travel
- Booster vaccination - must be given within the validity period of the primary vaccine and less than one year prior to travel

**Required Dog Vaccinations**:

- DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza)
- Leptospirosis
- CIV (canine influenza virus)
- Bordetella (kennel cough)

**Required Cat Vaccinations**:

- FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitus, calcivirus)
- Feline Leukemia (recommended but not mandatory)

 Blood Tests

### Blood Tests 

**Rabies Titer Test (FAVN)**:

- Should be completed 3-4 weeks after the rabies vaccination
- Must be completed greater than 3 months but less than 24 months prior to travel
- The result must be greater than or equal to 0.5 IU/ml

**Other Blood Tests - Required for Dogs Only**:

- **Babesia canis (only for dogs that have ever been to South Africa)** 
    - Administer an approved treatment for Babesia canis within 16 days prior to travel; OR
    - Complete a blood test (IFA or ELISA) for Babesia canis within 16 days prior to travel

- **Babesia gibsoni ** 
    - Complete an IFA or ELISA test for Babesia gibsoni within 16 days prior to travel

- **Brucella canis** 
    - Complete a rapid slide agglutination test (RSAT) within 16 days prior to travel; OR
    - Complete a tube agglutination test (TAT) within 16 days prior to travel the date of shipment
- **Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis)** 
    - Complete a heartworm antigen ELISA test within 30 days prior to travel

 Additional Treatments

### Additional Treatments

**External parasites (cats and dogs):**

- An accredited vet must administer an approved topical tick & flea treatment twice:
  
    - One within 30 days prior to travel and at least two weeks before the second treatment.  
    - One within two days prior to travel

**Internal parasites (cats and dogs) **

- An accredited vet must administer two treatments of an approved product (or combination or products) for the control of nematodes and cestodes at the manufacturer’s recommended dose
  
    - One within 30 days prior to travel and at least two weeks before the second treatment.  
    - One within 4 days prior to travel

**Heartworm Treatment:**

All dogs (regardless of age) must be treated with a product registered for heartworm prevention at the manufacturer’s recommended dose within 4 days prior to travel.

 Health Certificate

### Health Certificate 

A USDA Accredited veterinarian must perform a final clinical exam 2 days prior to travel and must complete the New Zealand health certificate.

The certificate must then be endorsed by the USDA prior to travel.

 Arrival & Customs

### Arrival & Customs 

All pets arriving in New Zealand must first clear customs at designated ports of entry, primarily Auckland International Airport. Your pet's documentation will be thoroughly reviewed, including the import permit, veterinary certificates, and proof of completed treatments. This verification typically takes 1-2 hours depending on arrival time and how many animals are being processed.

The customs officials will check that your pet's microchip matches the documentation. Any discrepancies or missing paperwork can result in delays or even refusal of entry. It's essential to have all documents organized in a clear folder with copies available.

Pet owners should notify their pet shipping company or agent of the flight's arrival to ensure someone is available to facilitate the clearance process. Fees for this service are usually between NZD 150-300.

 Biosecurity Inspections and Quarantine Facilities

### Biosecurity Inspections and Quarantine Facilities

After customs clearance, pets undergo a biosecurity inspection by Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) officials. They examine your pet for signs of illness, parasites, or other biosecurity concerns. Pets are transported in secure, MPI-approved vehicles to the quarantine facility.

New Zealand has several approved quarantine facilities:

- Auckland Quarantine Facility (primary location)
- Qualification Pets in Christchurch  
  Canterbury Quarantine in Kaiapoi

The minimum quarantine period is 10 days, though this may be extended if health concerns arise. During quarantine, pets receive:

- Daily health monitoring
- Clean accommodations with temperature control
- Regular exercise opportunities
- Veterinary care as needed

Quarantine fees range from NZD 1,200-2,000 depending on the facility and length of stay. These must be paid in advance when booking the quarantine space.

 Collecting Your Pet From Quarantine

### Collecting Your Pet From Quarantine

Once your pet completes the quarantine period and receives final clearance from MPI, you'll be notified to arrange collection. You'll need to present photo identification matching the import permit details and sign release documents.

Most quarantine facilities offer transportation services to your final destination for an additional fee. If collecting personally, bring an appropriate carrier for smaller pets or a leash and collar for dogs.

Your pet may seem tired or slightly disoriented after the journey and quarantine. Give them time to adjust to their new environment gradually. Maintain their regular feeding schedule and provide plenty of fresh water.

Consider scheduling a check-up with a local veterinarian within the first week in New Zealand. This helps establish care with a new vet and ensures your pet has adjusted well to their journey.

 How Starwood Can Help

### How Starwood Can Help 

Our New Zealand pet transport services include:

- Door-to-door pet transport
  
   
- Assistance with health certificates, import certificates, and other travel documents needed for pet travel to New Zealand
  
   
- USDA endorsement of all relevant documents
  
   
- Airline-approved travel kennels provided with personalized labels, identification and emergency notification instructions
  
   
- Customs clearance and delivery to your home
  
   
- Travel consultation and flight reservations

For more detailed information on life in New Zealand with your pet, please refer to our comprehensive New Zealand Country Guide.

 New Zealand Country Guide

## Moving from New Zealand

 How Starwood can help

### Pet Travel from New Zealnd to the USA 

Whether you’re flying your pet to the United States after a brief stay or a whole lifetime in another country, there are a number of hoops to jump through. Getting all of the details right can be confusing and time-consuming, and improper planning or documentation could delay your pet’s entry into the country. Let us handle all the details for you!

 

### P r i c i n g

## Starting cost for moving your pet to New Zealand

## Pet Transport Cost Estimator

| Number of pets | Starting cost* |
| --- | --- |
| 1 | $5,295 |
| 2 | $8,095 |
| 3 | $10,695 |
| 4 | $10,795 |
| 5 | $13,900 |
| 6+ | Contact Us |

* This does not serve as our official quotation. For an exact quote and detailed proposal, please request a free quote.

[Pet relocation packages and pricing - more info → ](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/cost-and-pricing)

#### Talk to our experts

Need help or have questions?  
Our team is ready to help!

![peoplenow](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/hs-fs/hubfs/peoplenow.png?width=120&height=40&name=peoplenow.png) 

 Get in touch →

### F a q

## Questions, answered

### Is pet travel safe?

+

 Yes, pet travel is safe with the proper preparation and precautions. Thousands of pets fly every year without issue. You can read more about pet travel safety [here.](https://starwoodpet.com/blog/will-my-pet-be-safe-on-an-airplane/)

### Should I sedate my pet?

+

 NO. It is not recommended to sedate or tranquilize any pet that is flying on an airplane. This can negatively affect their breathing and respiration when they are up in the air at high altitudes. This can be even more dangerous for pets with pre-existing conditions or snub-nosed (brachycephalic) pets. Starwood will NOT transport any pet that has been sedated or tranquilized. Additionally, if the airline believes that your pet has been sedated, then they can refuse your pet for travel. You can learn more about sedation and air travel in our [blog post.](https://starwoodpet.com/blog/dont-tranquilize-your-pet-during-air-travel-theres-better-options)

### Where do pets travel on the plane?

+

Starwood only transports pets who are traveling as manifest cargo. This means that they travel on commercial flights underneath the passenger cabin in a space that is temperature controlled, pressurized, and oxygenated. Live animals travel beneath the pilot and the pilot must sign off on a manifest so they are aware of any pets onboard. Your pet’s travel kennel will be held into place by a thin netting that acts like a seatbelt to keep them safe and secure during takeoff and landing. [Learn more about where pets travel on a plane](https://www.starwoodpet.com/blog/where-do-pets-fly-on-a-plane).

### Will my pet eat or drink?

+

You should definitely ensure your pet is provided plenty of water prior to and on the day of their big adventure. Our team will also make sure that their water bowls are topped off once we check them in for the flight. Once pets are in the care of the airline after check-in, the airline staff will be sure to top off water as well. However, it is NOT recommended for pets to eat right before takeoff or during the flight. This can cause an upset stomach, which we of course want to avoid. Our team will not provide food for the flight and we do not recommend feeding them less than 4 hours prior to flight departure. If your pet has a layover, they will be provided more water and some food (depending on the length of the layover). Water will also be provided once they have landed as they are clearing through customs. If your pet will be boarding or spending time in quarantine throughout their trip, they will be provided food and water regularly. [You can read more about whether you should feed pets who are flying in our blog.](https://starwoodpet.com/blog/should-i-feed-my-dog-before-flying-what-else-should-i-know)

### How will my pet go to the bathroom?

+

 If you have a dog that is traveling, our team will provide them with a nice walk and potty break prior to check-in at the airport. Once your pet is checked in, they must remain inside their travel kennel until they arrive at the destination. We do not let cats out of the travel kennel after we pick them up since you know they can be sneaky escape artists. Upon arrival to the destination, dogs will be provided with a walk and potty break before they head home to you. Again, cats will need to remain inside their travel kennels unless there is a safe and secure room to let them out. Litter boxes are not permitted to be inside the travel kennel so please be aware that sometimes your pet may go to the bathroom inside the kennel. As they say, if you gotta go, you gotta go. If your pet has soiled their travel kennel and there is a safe place to let them out of the kennel then we do try our best to clean the kennel when possible prior to delivery. [Learn more here](https://www.starwoodpet.com/blog/how-do-pets-go-to-the-bathroom-on-a-plane).

[ Visit our Knowledge base → ](https://www.starwoodpet.com/)

We partner with the best in the industry:

![qantas](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/hubfs/New%20website%202026/qantas.svg) ![qatar](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/hubfs/New%20website%202026/qatar.svg) ![american-airlines](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/hubfs/New%20website%202026/american-airlines.svg) ![lufthansa](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/hubfs/New%20website%202026/lufthansa.svg) ![air new zeland](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/hubfs/New%20website%202026/air%20new%20zeland.svg) ![british airways](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/hubfs/New%20website%202026/british%20airways.svg) ![klm](https://50936337.hs-sites.com/hubfs/New%20website%202026/klm.svg)

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    "url" : "https://www.starwoodpet.com/"
  },
  "serviceType" : "International pet transport and pet relocation to New Zealand",
  "url" : "https://www.starwoodpet.com/locations/new-zealand"
}
```

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@id" : "https://www.starwoodpet.com/locations/new-zealand#breadcrumbs",
  "@type" : "BreadcrumbList",
  "itemListElement" : [ {
    "@type" : "ListItem",
    "item" : "https://www.starwoodpet.com/",
    "name" : "Home",
    "position" : 1
  }, {
    "@type" : "ListItem",
    "item" : "https://www.starwoodpet.com/locations/",
    "name" : "Locations",
    "position" : 2
  }, {
    "@type" : "ListItem",
    "item" : "https://www.starwoodpet.com/locations/new-zealand",
    "name" : "New Zealand",
    "position" : 3
  } ]
}
```

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "FAQPage",
  "mainEntity" : [ {
    "@type" : "Question",
    "acceptedAnswer" : {
      "@type" : "Answer",
      "text" : ""
    },
    "name" : "Is pet travel safe?"
  }, {
    "@type" : "Question",
    "acceptedAnswer" : {
      "@type" : "Answer",
      "text" : ""
    },
    "name" : "Should I sedate my pet?"
  }, {
    "@type" : "Question",
    "acceptedAnswer" : {
      "@type" : "Answer",
      "text" : ""
    },
    "name" : "Where do pets travel on the plane?"
  }, {
    "@type" : "Question",
    "acceptedAnswer" : {
      "@type" : "Answer",
      "text" : ""
    },
    "name" : "Will my pet eat or drink?"
  }, {
    "@type" : "Question",
    "acceptedAnswer" : {
      "@type" : "Answer",
      "text" : ""
    },
    "name" : "How will my pet go to the bathroom?"
  } ]
}
```

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BreadcrumbList",
  "itemListElement" : [ {
    "@type" : "ListItem",
    "item" : "",
    "name" : "Home",
    "position" : 1
  }, {
    "@type" : "ListItem",
    "item" : "",
    "name" : "Destinations",
    "position" : 2
  }, {
    "@type" : "ListItem",
    "item" : "",
    "name" : "New Zealand",
    "position" : 3
  } ]
}
```