Senior Pet Travel: Preparing an Older Dog or Cat for an International Move

Moving a senior pet internationally is one of the more nuanced decisions a pet owner faces. The desire to keep the family together is completely understandable. The question is whether the journey itself is in the animal’s best interest.

Most senior pets can travel internationally. Most do not find it as distressing as their owners fear. But the preparation needs to be more thorough than for a young animal, and some honest conversations with your vet are unavoidable.

Defining “Senior”

Age thresholds for “senior” status vary by species and breed:

• Small dogs (under 10kg): Senior from approximately 10-11 years
• Medium dogs (10-25kg): Senior from approximately 9-10 years
• Large dogs (25-45kg): Senior from approximately 8 years
• Giant breeds (45kg+): Senior from 6-7 years
• Cats: Senior from approximately 10-11 years

These are general guidelines. Biological age (health status) matters more than chronological age.

Vet Assessment: What Needs to Be Checked

Before committing to international travel with a senior pet, ask your vet to assess:

Cardiovascular status: Is the heart working efficiently? Cargo holds involve pressure changes and stress - a compromised heart is a genuine risk factor.

Respiratory function: Can the animal breathe normally under mild exertion and stress? This is particularly critical for brachycephalic breeds of any age.

Musculoskeletal condition: Arthritis affects comfort in the crate. A dog that cannot stand comfortably for extended periods will find a 15-hour cargo journey genuinely difficult.

Cognitive function: Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (canine dementia equivalent) can cause severe disorientation in unfamiliar environments. A very cognitively impaired animal may suffer significantly in quarantine.

Weight and nutritional status: Underweight or overweight animals tolerate stress less well. Address this before travel if possible.

Kidney and liver function: Blood work helps identify subclinical issues that stress might exacerbate.

The Fitness-to-Fly Statement

Standard international health certificates confirm the animal appears healthy and meets vaccination requirements. They do not specifically certify the animal is fit for long-haul cargo travel.

For a senior animal, ask your vet to issue a separate fitness-to-fly letter specifically addressing:

• Known health conditions
• Why the vet considers the animal fit to travel
• Any specific handling instructions (e.g., priority unloading, cool hold required)

Some airlines now request this for older animals, and it can be the document that prevents your pet from being refused at check-in.

Crate Comfort for Older Animals

Arthritis and joint stiffness mean that an older animal needs:

• Thicker bedding - a memory foam or orthopedic mat (thin enough to fit, thick enough to cushion). Ensure it does not slide and create a tripping hazard.
• Crate sized generously - the minimum IATA size allows turning around; for an arthritic animal, slightly larger helps them reposition more easily.
• Ramp or low entry - if your pet struggles with steps at home, consider how they will enter and exit the crate at both ends of the journey.

Medication During Travel

Many senior pets are on daily medication (thyroid supplements, heart medication, arthritis management). For international travel:

• Pack at least two weeks of medication in your carry-on, not checked luggage
• Include written instructions and prescription labels
• If the quarantine period requires medication administration, notify the facility in advance - most can administer basic medications but need advance notice and supply

Managing the Post-Arrival Period

Senior animals often take longer to adjust to a new home. Expect:

• 2-4 weeks of adjustment rather than 1-2 weeks for a younger animal
• Increased need for familiar routines (feeding times, walk routes, sleeping spots)
• Possible temporary incontinence or digestive upset due to stress
• Increased sleeping - travel is genuinely fatiguing for older animals

Set up the new home with as many familiar items as possible: their bed, their bowls, their usual blanket. Minimise change in the immediate weeks after arrival.

Content reflects current IATA standards and general veterinary guidance. Always consult your own vet for advice specific to your animal’s health status. Data current as of 2026.