Your Trusted Partner for International and Domestic Dog Travel
Moving abroad, relocating across the country, or bringing your dog home from overseas — Across The Pond Pets handles the entire journey so you don’t have to figure out airline rules, import permits, and vet paperwork on your own.
We move dogs nationwide. Our own teams operate out of Seattle (SEA-TAC) and Los Angeles (LAX), two of the country’s major pet shipping gateways, and our trusted partner network handles pickups, vet coordination, and departures from cities across the U.S. Wherever you start, we plan the route, prepare the documents, book the flight or ground transport, and stay with your dog’s trip from pickup to arrival. Every dog gets a dedicated coordinator and a plan built around their breed, size, age, and temperament.
Dog Transport Services We Offer
Most dog moves use one of these three services — or a combination, such as ground pickup to our airport hub followed by an international flight.
International Dog Travel
Every country has its own import rules, and the order of steps matters. We manage the full sequence so your dog clears customs on arrival.
- Microchip, rabies, and titer test timing
- USDA-endorsed health certificates and import permits
- Pet-safe flight booking and customs clearance
Domestic Dog Air Travel
We choose the right airline and route for your dog, then handle the crate, paperwork, and check-in — including moves from the mainland to Hawaii.
- Airline selection and cargo or cabin booking
- Airline-compliant crate sized to your dog
- Health certificate coordination with your vet
Ground Transportation
Door-to-door ground transport across the continental U.S. — the safest option for flat-faced breeds, seniors, and anxious flyers.
- Home pickup and delivery
- Climate-controlled, GPS-tracked vehicles
- Regular walks, water breaks, and photo updates
Military family with PCS orders? We plan dog moves around your report date, including PCS moves to Japan, Germany, and Korea. See our military pet transportation services.
Flat-Faced and Restricted Dog Breeds
Most airlines restrict or ban brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds from flying as cargo because of breathing risks in the hold. Some also restrict strong or large breeds. These restrictions don’t mean your dog can’t travel — they mean the route has to be planned differently.
| Breed group | Common examples | How we move them |
|---|---|---|
| Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds | Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Pekingese, Boxers, Shih Tzus, and their mixes | Ground transport within the continental U.S.; cabin travel for small dogs where the airline allows it; specialized carriers on select international routes |
| Strong or large breeds | Varies by airline and destination country | Reinforced, airline-approved crates, carriers that accept the breed, and a check against destination-country breed bans |
| Senior or medically fragile dogs | Any breed | Vet clearance first, then the shortest, least stressful route — often ground transport or a nonstop flight |
For airline-by-airline details, read our guide to airline restrictions and transport solutions for restricted dog breeds, and check our crate guidelines before buying a crate.
Bringing Your Dog Into or Back to the U.S.
Every dog entering or returning to the United States — including U.S. dogs coming home from a trip — must meet the CDC’s dog import rules, in place since August 2024. Three requirements apply to every dog:
- At least 6 months oldAt the time of entry into the U.S.
- Readable microchipISO-compatible, with the number matching every document.
- CDC Dog Import Form receiptOne form per dog, completed online before travel.
Traveling to a high-risk rabies country? If your dog has been in a country on the CDC’s high-risk list in the 6 months before returning, extra documents are required. U.S.-vaccinated dogs need a Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination endorsed by USDA — arranged before you leave the U.S. Foreign-vaccinated dogs face stricter requirements, including a reservation at a CDC-registered animal care facility.
See our high-risk rabies countries guide, or use the Rabies Certification card below and we’ll prepare it for you.
Why Dog Owners Choose Across The Pond Pets
Current on the rulesAirline policies and import rules change often. We track them so your dog’s plan is based on today’s requirements.
A plan built for your dogBreed, size, age, and temperament all shape the route, crate, and timing we recommend.
24/7 access to your agentReach our global pet travel agents any time for updates and questions during your dog’s journey.
Trusted by families and service membersHundreds of pet parents and military families have moved their dogs with us.
Dog Travel FAQs
How far in advance should I plan my dog’s international move?
It depends on the destination. Many countries can be done in a few weeks, but rabies-free destinations that require a blood titer test and waiting period — such as Japan, Australia, and Hawaii — can take six months or more. Contact us as soon as you know your move date and we’ll give you a dated plan.
Which dog breeds can’t fly as cargo?
Most airlines restrict flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds such as Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Pekingese, Boxers, and Shih Tzus from cargo. Within the U.S., ground transport is usually the safest alternative. Small dogs may be able to fly in the cabin, depending on the airline.
Can my dog fly in the cabin with me?
Small dogs whose carrier fits under the seat can fly in the cabin on many airlines, subject to fees and limits per flight. Internationally, the destination country also has a say — the United Kingdom, for example, requires most dogs to arrive as cargo. We’ll tell you which option applies to your route.
What does my dog need to return to the U.S. after a trip abroad?
Every dog must be at least 6 months old, have a readable microchip, and have a CDC Dog Import Form receipt. If your dog has been in a high-risk rabies country in the previous 6 months, you’ll also need a USDA-endorsed Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination, which must be completed before you leave the U.S.
Do you transport dogs by ground within the U.S.?
Yes. We offer door-to-door ground transport across the continental U.S. in climate-controlled, GPS-tracked vehicles, with regular breaks and photo updates. It’s often the best option for flat-faced breeds, senior dogs, and shorter moves.
Get a Quote for Dog Transportation
Choose the service that fits your dog’s trip — or schedule a consultation if you’re not sure.
Full Agent Support
For dogs traveling alone. We handle the full logistics and documentation from start to finish.
Request Full Agent SupportVeterinarian Document Assistance
Flying with your dog in the cabin or cargo? We make sure every required document is correct and on time.
Get Document AssistanceCertification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination
Returning from a high-risk rabies country? This USDA-endorsed form must be completed before your dog leaves the U.S.
Rabies Certification AssistanceMilitary Dogs: PCS & Deployment
For active duty service members relocating or deploying. Priority scheduling around your orders.
Military Pet ShippingStart Your Dog’s Journey Today
Book a consultation with our pet travel experts and get a clear plan for your dog’s trip.
Schedule a Pet Travel Consultation