Live animal shipping, being it for commercial purposes or as part of a personal relocation event, can be a stressful time for all involved. Since this isn’t something that most people have ever done before, it is important to work with a logistics or freight forwarder who is experienced in this type of cargo transport. Eagles Air & Sea has a long history of safely shipping everything from the pet kitty to zoo bound elephants. We can provide you with guidance for the entire process to ensure that your precious cargo arrives safe and sound.
Let’s break down the process of shipping your pet into three component before the trip, during the trip and after arrival:
- Before moving your pet overseas – Issue number one is to make sure the country you are going to will accept your pet. Many countries have restrictions on the type and quantity of live animals they will accept.
Once you have established that your pet can be relocated to the destination country you should start acclimating them to the crate they will travel in. Provide food and water in the crate so they will get used to “living” in the crate for an extended period of time. They will start to feel safe and comfortable in their crate and this will greatly reduce the stress on them while in transit.
A trip to the veterinarian will be needed to make sure the animal is capable of handling the trip and to get the necessary documents that will tell customs that your pet is free from any conditions or diseased that will prohibit them from entering the destination country. - During the trip – If possible it is best if you can travel at the same time and in the same plane as your pet is traveling in. In some cases with smaller animals, airlines will allow you take the pet onboard in the cabin with you but in most cases your pet will be traveling in the cargo hold. Tracking tools can help you to know just where your pet is. This can be helpful, especially if there will be a switch in planes or layover during the transit.
- Upon arrival – If the proper vaccinations, licenses and other documentation are in order you should be reunited with your pet upon its arrival. Many countries require a quarantine period that will delay the time when you can take the pet to its new home but officials will usually allow you to visit the animal while in quarantine.

It is important to locate a vet in your new home country and to have the animal checked out once it is turned over to you. The vet will know if there are vaccinations or other treatments that might be unique to the location or country you have moved to.
You and your pet are all set! Give your pet time to acclimate to its new surroundings and be sure to have old toys, feeding bowls and cushions available to help them feel at home in their new surroundings.
To get a reliable provider to ship your live animals, speak to our friendly customer services representation at +66 (02) 790 4599 or email to sales@eaglesthai.com.
Frequent Asked Questions
What documentation is required?
A health certificate is the first and most important document required. From there, different countries will require specific information and/or documents. As an example, The UK requires all pets entering the country to have an ISO compliant microchip inserted in the pet.
Should my animal be tranquilized?
This will depend on the animal, it’s personality, age and the distance and time it will be in transit. It is best to consult with your veterinarian for the types of medication best suited to your pet.
What animals are restricted in Thailand?
Almost all pets are welcomed into the Kingdom of Thailand. There are two notable exceptions, however. Pit Bulls and Bull Terriers are not allowed into Thailand.