Door-to-Door Pet Transportation Explained

Adaeze Nwakaeze Adaeze Nwakaeze · Updated February 23, 2024

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A black pug dog being transported door-to-door in a red car.

Pet owners know that transporting a dog or cat on a trip can be stressful. If it’s a long trip, there are usually the added worries of the pet being in an unfamiliar place for too long or not getting enough attention and care.

Sure, you could use your car and leave Fido in the back seat until you arrive at your destination, but wouldn’t it be nice if there was an easier way?

Good news: door-to-door pet transportation is here to save the day! With door-to-door pet transportation, your furry friend will be safely taken to their destination with minimal stress and effort on your part.

To help you get a better understanding of door-to-door transportation for cats and dogs, we’ve broken down the process with a detailed explanation of how it works.

What Is Door-to-Door Pet Transportation?

Door-to-door pet transportation offers a more personalized approach to getting your pet from point A to point B than traditional options, such as air travel.

Door-to-door pet transportation is a service in which a driver picks up your pet from home, takes them to their destination and drops them off at a pre-arranged location — all while providing a high level of safety and comfort.

This service is great for pet owners who do not have the time or resources to transport their pets, and it’s also perfect for those who prefer a more hands-off approach to pet travel.

If you are a breeder who needs help getting puppies and kittens to their new home, this service is also ideal.

Most door-to-door pet transportation companies will meet your pet at your home, transport them in a safe and comfortable vehicle, then deliver them to the pre-arranged destination. In addition to providing a stress-free ride, they will also provide your pet with food and water during their journey. This ensures that your pet is well-fed and hydrated throughout their travels.

The service may include additional amenities such as climate control, air conditioning, and even overnight stays in a pet-friendly hotel if needed.

Door-to-Door Pet Transportation: How Does It Work?

Ordinarily, getting Fido to his destination would involve a lot of planning, packing and stress. But not anymore! Door-to-door pet transportation takes the hassle out of long-distance pet travel by providing a convenient, reliable service that fits your schedule.

First, you’ll need to book the service. At CitizenShipper, we make it easy to find the perfect driver for your needs, budget and schedule. Once you have found the right professional for your pet’s transportation, the process is simple.

The pet transport company will come to your home and pick up your pet. They will then transport them to their destination and drop them off. The entire process is designed to ensure that your furry family member stays safe and comfortable throughout the journey.

Legal Requirements for Pet Transportation

Moving pets from one place to another can involve a range of legal requirements. Depending on the state, country or region you’re traveling to or from, you’ll need to know the pet travel laws that apply.

This is why booking your pet transport with a reliable, experienced professional is important. The right company will be up-to-date with the legal requirements and ensure you have all the necessary paperwork.

For example, if your pet needs to be microchipped for entry into a foreign country, the transport company will know what steps to take and will guide you through the process.

Other legal requirements may include the following:

#1. A Visit to the Vet

Your pet’s safety is paramount, so it’s essential they have a proper health check before they start their journey.

Paying a visit to your veterinarian will put you at ease and ensure that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. Usually, the doctor will issue a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), which certifies that your pet has a clean bill of health.

The CVI is essential for pet transportation as it shows your dog’s state of health and helps the transport company determine if your pet is fit to travel, so endeavor to get it from your vet at least 30 days before your pet’s departure.

This health certificate should include information such as:

  • Your pet’s current vaccines
  • Your pet’s age and breed
  • Medical history
  • Physical examination of your pet
  • Blood tests (if recommended by your vet)
  • Any additional health information

Yes, your visit to the vet may take some time and money, but it will be worth it for the safety of your beloved pet.

#2. Pet Permits and Licenses

You may need specific permits or licenses to transport your pet from one place to another. Each state and country has different requirements, including international pet passports, rabies vaccination certificates and import permits. For example, if you’re taking your pet out of the country, you must get a pet passport. This document contains your pet’s identification, vaccination records and other relevant information.

Then, there are entry restrictions for certain breeds of dogs. For example, some countries ban pit bulls or other large dog breeds. Make sure you’re aware of such restrictions before you plan to move your pet.

Some airlines also require that you obtain an International Air Transport Association (IATA) live animal transport license, so check with the airline before booking your pet’s travel.

The transport company will be able to provide more information on the legal requirements for pet transportation and will help you make sure that all necessary documents and permits are in order.

#3. Updated Pet Microchip Information

The chances of your pet going missing during a door-to-door pet transport are slim, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

A pet’s microchip contains an identification number that will help you locate your pet if they get lost. This number is connected to a database, so if your pet goes missing, anyone with access to the microchip scanner can easily trace its whereabouts.

#4. Signed Vaccination Certificates

Pets, especially dogs, cats and ferrets, must have a valid vaccination certificate that a certified veterinarian issued whether they are traveling or not. Presenting a certificate like this will prove that your pet is up to date with all their vaccinations and is healthy enough for travel.

In this aspect, rabies vaccination and other required vaccinations must be present on the certificate. It’s also important to keep in mind that some countries require your pet to have additional vaccinations, such as those for leptospirosis or tick-borne diseases.

Depending on the destination, your pet may also need kennel cough and canine distemper or feline distemper vaccines (for cats). So make sure to enquire about these requirements before booking a door-to-door pet transport.

#5. Pet Carrier

Finally, you will need to have a secure pet carrier for the duration of the trip. It’s best to pick a carrier that is the appropriate size for your pet and offers enough ventilation. The carrier should also be easy to handle and have enough space for your pet to move around.

When it comes to the type of material, make sure you pick a carrier made from durable and lightweight materials. This will ensure that your pet is safe and comfortable during the transport. Most door-to-door pet transportation companies provide suitable carriers for all types of pets, so you don’t have to worry about buying one.

We recommend the Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier for its strength and durability. It is made from heavy-duty plastic and has plenty of ventilation and a secure locking system that keeps your pet safe during transport. Plus, it is easy to clean and assemble.

For cats, we suggest the AmazonBasics Two-Door Top-Load Pet Travel Carrier. This soft-sided carrier is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of ventilation for your cat to breathe during the journey.

Who Handles Pet Relocation?

Door-to-door pet transport services are usually handled by experienced professionals with the necessary expertise and know-how to ensure a safe and stress-free relocation for your pet.

These professionals are well-versed in the regulations and requirements associated with pet transport, so they can provide assistance in ensuring that all the necessary documents and permits are in order. They also take all the necessary steps to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your pet.

In some cases, these companies can act as your pet’s travel agents and take the burden off your shoulders. They will coordinate the entire move, including pick-up and drop-off, so your pet arrives safely and on time at its destination.

Iif you want your pet to experience a relaxed and stress-free move use CitizenShipper for door-to-door pet transportation service.

  • With our online marketplace, you can easily book a trusted, experienced pet transporter in just a few clicks.
  • Most pet transport listings receive quotes within minutes.
  • It’s free to review your quotes and communicate with transporters.
  • Our transport providers are all vetted with stringent background checks.
  • You can speak directly with the driver to coordinate all details of the move and get updates on your pet’s progress.
  • Every transport on CitizenShipper includes a booking assurance guarantee and a $1,000 pet protection plan.
  • If there’s any issues on the road, transports booked through CitizenShipper have access to a tele vet through our partnership with FirstVet.

At CitizenShipper, we understand that your pet is a part of the family, and we want to ensure they arrive safely and soundly in the new home. So, book your door-to-door pet transport today and let us take care of the rest!

How Can I Access Door-to-Door Pet Transportation Services?

Door-to-door pet transportation services are available through CitizenShipper’s online marketplace. Hundreds of experienced and professional animal handlers are just a few clicks away.

Here’s how to get started:

  • Fill out the required information, including your pet’s breed, weight, destination and other relevant details.
  • Once your account is created, we’ll match with door-to-door pet transportation professionals.
  • Review free bids from pet transportation professionals as they roll in and select one that meets your requirements – compare prices, services, reviews, and more to find the best service for you.
  • Once you have chosen a provider, you can book their services and make the payment.
  • Continue communicating with your preferred pet relocation specialist to monitor the progress and ensure everything is going according to plan.

Setting Up a Hassle Free Pet Relocation

Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free door-to-door pet transportation experience:

Book early: Book your desired door-to-door pet transportation service early to avoid any last-minute rush.

Ensure all documents are in order: Ensure that all the necessary documents for pet relocation are in order. This includes permits, visas, health certificates, etc.

Provide detailed information: Make sure to provide the pet relocation transporter with detailed information about your pet.

Prepare your pet: Carefully pack all they need during the trip. This includes food, water, medication, bedding, toys, a suitable crate and other pet-related items.

Keep in touch: Stay in contact with the pet relocation specialist. This ensures that your pet is safe and sound during the entire process.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re moving houses and need to transport a cat, sending a dog to new owners, or simply planning a vacation with your furry friends, door-to-door pet transportation services can make the entire process much easier.

When you use CitizenShipper for door-to-door pet transportation, you have access a wide range of reliable and professional pet transportation specialists. Post a listing for pet transportation today and connect with professionals that provide the best service.


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