Frequently Asked Questions: Domestic Travel

Yes, you can be on the same flight as your pet, But this is subject to airline space and availability of flights.
The only Airlines in Australia that can transport pets domestically are Virgin & Qantas.
The quote will stipulate the airline we have provided a quote on, we recommend if you want to travel on the same flight as your pet, that you book your pets flight first, as the airlines only transport 4 crates per flight.
Pet travel and human travel is scheduled independently. Departure Pets does not coordinate human travel.

Pets will fly in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The cargo hold is typically located in the belly of the aircraft and under the main cabin OR at the front or rear of some aircrafts (See highlighted areas below)
The conditions of the cargo hold are reflective of what is felt by humans in the cabin.
The cargo hold is kept at a comfortable 18°-22° Celsius. Consistent with the cabins conditions - it is also pressurised to ensure the pressure within is at a comfortable level to accommodate for the dynamic altitudes experienced during transit.

All pets will travel in their IATA approved travel crates. Their crate, once loaded into the cargo hold, will be secured and strapped down by airline staff to prevent movement during the flight.
Pets will not be monitored during the flight, however our team will ensure your pet is well prepared and looked after before their flight. We will give your pet the uttermost love and care until the airline checks in your pet for their flight.

Your pet will not be fed within 6-8 hours of departure. This is to reduce any nausea, vomiting your pet may experience with dynamic altitudes, but also to reduce the chance of your pet relieving themselves in their crate during transit.
Your pet cannot travel with food either.
Departure Pets will secure your pets water bowl to the inside of the crate door, that will be filled right before boarding. Your pet will have access to their water throughout the entire flight.

Sedation is a big NO! Sedatives affect more than just their consciousness; they reduce your pets heart rate, body temperature and respiration.
Your pet’s body cannot adjust to the changes in the altitude and pressure when under sedation.
Departure Pets will not transport pets under sedation unless recommended by your vet with supporting documentation.
Where sedatives are needed or specifically requested, sedatives are STRICTLY to be arranged by the client and prescribed and issued by client’s own veterinarian. '
The airlines reserve the right to refuse acceptance of pets under sedation and Departure Pets will not be held liable.

When you have to go, you have to go! There is no stopping nature, but we can make it a bit more comfortable. All our Departure Pets 'passengers' will travel with absorbent material in the bottom of their crate.
If your pet soils the bedding before the flight takes off, the airline will reject the pet's boarding until it's been cleaned. If your pet misses their flight, we will re-lodge the pet for the next available flight with fees and charges imposed.

Your pet is not permitted to travel with a dog or cat bed in the crate, as it will take up too much space inside the crate.
You are however encouraged to put an old blanket or towel in the bottom of the crate to provide some additional comfort, and absorbency in the case of soiling during transit.
We recommend sleeping with the chosen blanket or towel for a few nights prior to the day of transport so your pet has a sense of comfort and familiarity.
Please do not put anything of value or something you wish to keep upon arrival into the crate. If soiled during the flight, this item will be discarded upon arrival.

Your pet is not permitted to travel with any loose items on them OR inside the crate.
If you wish to send your pet's collar/lead or paperwork with them, it will need to be attached to the exterior of the crate at your own risk.
We cannot guarantee that any items attached to the exterior of the crate will arrive with your pet.
Departure Pets cannot be held responsible if these items are removed, misplaced or stolen.

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