Transporting a pet can be a daunting and overwhelming task, for first timers and seasoned pet owners, whether it be for a relocation or for a vacation. There are two main options for transporting a pet: doing it yourself or using the services of a pet relocation company. Both options have their pros and cons, and ultimately the decision depends on the individual circumstances and needs of the pet owner.
DIY Pet Relocation Approach
One of the main advantages of transporting a pet yourself is that it can be more cost-effective. Pet shipping companies can be expensive, especially for long distances or for larger pets. By transporting a pet yourself, you have more control over the costs and can choose the most cost-effective options for transportation, such as driving or taking a budget airline. This could involve travelling with your cat or dog as excess baggage, which has a raft of other considerations.
Another advantage of transporting a pet yourself is that you have more control over the entire process. You can choose the route, mode of transportation, and timing of the trip, and you can also be with your pet every step of the way to ensure their comfort and safety. This can be especially important for anxious or nervous pets who may benefit from the presence of their owner.
However, there are also several disadvantages to transporting a pet yourself. The most significant disadvantage is the amount of time and effort involved. It can be time-consuming and physically demanding to transport a pet, especially if you have to drive long distances or navigate unfamiliar airports, quarantine centres, paperwork and processes. This can be especially challenging if you have multiple pets or if you are transporting a large or difficult-to-handle pet.
Another disadvantage of transporting a pet yourself is the risk of unforeseen problems or complications. Even if you have planned everything carefully, there is always the risk of delays, lost or incorrect documents, or other issues that can arise. These problems can be stressful and costly to resolve, especially if you are far from home or do not have access to the necessary expertise and resources.
You may not have a choice to go the DIY route in some cases, as an increasing number of airlines only accept animals on their planes when booked via an IPATA accredited pet transporter. An example is Lufthansa:
Freight forwarders can book via the Lufthansa Cargo Service Center. Private individuals need to book through a freight forwarder.
https://lufthansa-cargo.com/products-live-animals
Using A Pet Relocation Company
In contrast, using a pet shipping company can alleviate many of these problems. Pet shipping companies are experienced in transporting pets and have the necessary resources and expertise to handle any issues that may arise. They can also take care of all the necessary paperwork and arrangements, such as obtaining travel documents and booking flights or other transportation.
Another advantage of using a pet shipping company is the level of care and comfort they can provide for your pet. Many pet shipping companies offer specialised services, such as climate-controlled transport and professional handling, to ensure the well-being of your pet during the trip. This can be especially important for long journeys or for pets with special needs.
Despite these advantages, there are also some considerations to using a pet shipping company. One is the cost, as mentioned above. Pet shipping companies add their fee onto the direct transportation costs, so will be more expensive than DIY, especially for long distances or for larger pets. In addition, some pet owners may be concerned about entrusting their beloved pets to a third party, and may prefer to have more control over the process.
In conclusion, the decision to transport a pet yourself or use a pet shipping company depends on a variety of factors, including cost, time and effort involved, and the comfort and needs of the pet. While transporting a pet yourself can be more cost-effective and give you more control over the process, it can also be time-consuming and stressful. On the other hand, using a pet shipping company can provide peace of mind and specialised care for your pet, with the trade off being additional cost.
If you want to get an idea of the cost of transporting your pet, you can get multiple quotes with one simple form at Compare Pet Moves.