Traveling internationally with a dog can be exciting but quite expensive. If you are planning to take your beloved dog abroad, it is important to understand the cost factors. So, Flying a Dog Internationally: Costs & Money-Saving Tips The total expense can range from $200 to over $6,000, depending on the airline, destination, size of the dog, and travel requirements.
In this exclusive guide, we will understand in detail the total cost of flying a dog on an international flight, the factors that affect these costs, and secret ways to save money on pet travel.
- 1 Factors affecting the cost of taking a dog on an international flight
- 2 Estimated Cost Table for Taking a Dog on an International Flight
- 3 Ways to reduce the cost of flying a dog
- 4 FAQs: Flying a Dog Internationally: Costs & Money-Saving Tips
- 5 Final Thoughts: Flying a Dog Internationally: Costs & Money-Saving Tips
- 6 Author
Factors affecting the cost of taking a dog on an international flight
Several factors also contribute to the total cost. Let’s look at them in detail.
1. Airline fees
Different airlines have different dog travel policies and fees. The cost depends on how the dog is traveling:
- In-cabin (for small dogs only) – $100 to $500
- As checked baggage – $200 to $1,000
- As cargo (through pet relocation services) – $500 to $6,000+
2. Destination and distance of travel
One thing to always keep in mind is that the farther you are traveling, the higher the cost will be. Certain countries have strict quarantine laws that add additional fees.
- Short-haul flights (e.g., US to Canada) – $200 to $1,000
- Long-haul flights (e.g., US to Europe) – $1,000 to $5,000
- Special quarantine destinations (e.g., Australia, Japan) – $3,000 to $6,000
3. Dog size and weight
We know that larger dogs require larger crates and more cargo space, which can also increase costs significantly.
- Small breeds (under 20 pounds) – $200 to $1,500
- Medium breeds (20-50 pounds) – $500 to $3,000
- Large breeds (50+ pounds) – $1,000 to $6,000
4. Pet travel crate cost
Keep in mind that a government-approved travel crate is mandatory. The price also varies depending on the size:
- Small crate – $50 to $150
- Medium crate – $150 to $300
- Large crate – $300 to $1,000
5. Pet relocation services
If you use a professional dog transport company, you can also expect to pay as follows:
- Within North America – $1,000 to $3,000
- From the US to Europe – $3,000 to $5,000
- From the US to Australia – $5,000 to $10,000
6. Veterinary costs and documentation
Some countries also require a dog health certificate and vaccinations, which can cost:
- Dog health certificate – $50 to $300
- Dog rabies vaccination – $20 to $75
- Microchipping – $45 to $75
- Deworming and additional vaccines – $50 to $200
7. Quarantine Fees
Some countries also require quarantine upon arrival. Costs vary considerably by location:
- Australia – $1,500 to $2,000 (10-day quarantine)
- New Zealand – $1,100 to $1,800 (10-day quarantine)
- Hawaii – $250 to $1,000 (5-30 days)
Estimated Cost Table for Taking a Dog on an International Flight
| Expense | Estimated Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| Airline Pet Fee (In-cabin) | $100 – $500 |
| Airline Pet Fee (Cargo) | $500 – $6,000 |
| Pet Travel Crate | $50 – $1,000 |
| Pet Relocation Services | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| Health Certificate | $50 – $300 |
| Vaccinations & Microchip | $100 – $350 |
| Quarantine (If Required) | $250 – $2,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $200 – $10,000+ |
Ways to reduce the cost of flying a dog
1. Choose a pet-friendly airline
Compare the pet policies and fees of different airlines before traveling. Some airlines have more affordable pet travel policies.
2. Book in advance
The earlier you book your dog’s ticket, the lower the cost. Because some airlines have limited pet slots.
3. Use a smaller crate (if possible)
If the dog meets the weight limit for in-cabin travel, you can save a lot of money.
4. Check airline promotional offers
Some airlines also offer discounts on dog travel during specific seasons.
5. Consider alternate routes
Many countries allow pets to transit through a third country, which can also save you thousands of dollars.
FAQs: Flying a Dog Internationally: Costs & Money-Saving Tips
Can I fly my dog internationally for free?
The simple answer is no, airlines always charge for dog travel. The lowest cost is usually in-cabin travel for small dogs, which can cost anywhere from $100 to $500.
What is the cheapest way to fly a dog internationally?
The cheapest way is in-cabin travel if the dog meets the size limit. If the dog is too large, compare different cargo options.
Do all countries require quarantine for dogs?
No, but several countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and Japan have mandatory quarantine laws. In the US, Canada, and most of Europe, quarantine is not required if the dog has the proper vaccinations and documentation.
Is pet insurance necessary for international travel?
It is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Dog travel insurance costs between $50 and $200 and covers emergencies.
How Can I Travel with My Dog?: Expert Tips for a Safe & Stress-Free Trip!
Final Thoughts: Flying a Dog Internationally: Costs & Money-Saving Tips
So, Flying a Dog Internationally: Costs & Money-Saving Tips These costs vary based on the airline, the destination, and the size of your dog. While prices can range from $200 to $10,000, options like in-cabin travel, booking in advance, and avoiding quarantine destinations can reduce your expenses significantly.
Want a list of the best pet-friendly airlines? Let me know!
