Moving to a new city, or even a new country, is a big step. But when you have a furry companion to bring along, it comes with added responsibility. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or any other pet, relocating them safely means understanding the rules, handling documentation, and ensuring their health is in check.

If you’re planning pet relocation in India, this guide will walk you through the process, from pet health certificates to pet travel regulations, so you can prepare with confidence.

Planning to Relocate Your Pet? Here’s What You’re Getting Into

Relocating a pet isn’t as simple as buying a crate and booking a flight. Whether you’re moving pets across India or preparing for international pet relocation from India, there are specific legal, health, and logistical steps to follow.

While it may seem overwhelming at first, having the right information, and if needed, the right relocation partner, can make it all much more manageable.

What Paperwork Do You Need?

Here’s a breakdown of the essential pet relocation documentation India typically requires:

• Updated vaccination certificates
  
• A valid pet health certificate for travel from a registered veterinarian
  
• Microchip registration (mandatory in many countries)
  
• A Pet Travel NOC from the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS)
  
• Import/export permits, as per the pet import and export laws in India
  

We always recommend keeping both hard and digital copies of these documents ready for every stage of the journey.

What’s a Pet Travel NOC and Why Is It Important?

A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from AQCS is required for both domestic and international pet relocation. It confirms that your pet is healthy and legally cleared to travel.

You can apply for this directly or through authorised agents. If you’re working with us at Interem Relocations, we can take care of this process on your behalf to save you the time and back-and-forth.

Flying With Your Pet? Here’s What Indian Airlines Allow

Not all airlines have the same policies when it comes to transporting pets, but a few that are considered pet-friendly airlines in India include:

• Air India: Accepts pets both in the cabin (small pets) and in cargo
  
• Vistara: Allows small pets in the cabin on select domestic routes
  
• SpiceJet: Offers pet relocation by air in India via its cargo service
  

Each airline has its own set of guidelines based on breed, weight, and carrier size. If you’re unsure, we can help identify the best airline option for your specific needs.

Health Checks and Vaccinations: What to Sort Before Travel

Before your pet boards a flight, you’ll need to schedule a complete health check. Here’s what most pet travel regulations in India require:

• Rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days before travel)
  
• Core vaccines like DHPPi for dogs or FVRCP for cats
  
• Deworming within 7 days of travel
  
• A fit-to-fly certificate from a registered vet
  

For international travel, pet microchipping in India is often mandatory. We guide pet parents through the entire health clearance process to ensure compliance and comfort.

Some Breeds May Face Travel Restrictions

It’s important to know that not all breeds are permitted to travel easily, especially by air. Certain airlines and countries restrict the transport of specific breeds due to health and safety concerns.

For example:

• Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus may face restrictions or outright bans due to breathing difficulties at high altitudes.
  
• Some countries also have rules regarding aggressive or restricted dog breeds.
  

We help our clients understand breed-specific regulations early in the process so there are no surprises or last-minute cancellations.

Animal Quarantine in India: Here’s the Deal

If you’re relocating your pet internationally, animal quarantine in India may be part of the process. The AQCS will inspect your pet either on arrival or departure, and depending on the destination country and paperwork, a short quarantine period might be required.

As part of our service, we ensure all health documentation is completed to avoid delays or unnecessary holds at quarantine facilities.

Don’t Forget Their Emotions: Helping Your Pet Feel Safe During the Move

Amid all the paperwork and planning, it’s easy to forget that relocation can be stressful for your pet too.

Here are a few simple ways to help them adjust:

• Start crate-training well in advance so they feel comfortable inside
  
• Take them on short drives to simulate travel conditions
  
• Keep their favourite toy or blanket nearby during the journey
  
• Stick to their feeding and bathroom routines as much as possible
  

By gradually easing them into the experience, you can make travel less overwhelming and help them settle into their new environment faster.

Domestic vs International Pet Travel: What’s the Difference?

While moving pets across India is relatively straightforward, international travel is more document-heavy. For both, you’ll need:

• Airline-approved travel crates
  
• Vet certifications
  
• A travel NOC
  
• Coordination with pet-friendly airlines in India
  

If you’re relocating abroad, you’ll also need to meet the import requirements of the destination country, which can include additional vaccinations, microchipping, or quarantine upon arrival. We help our clients manage each step of the process, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Should You Consider Using a Pet Relocation Service?

If managing all of this sounds like a lot, it is. That’s where we come in.

At Interem Relocations, we specialise in both domestic and international pet transport in India. We assist with everything from:

• Vet appointments and travel health certificates
  
• Pet Travel NOC from AQCS
  
• Booking with pet-friendly airlines in India
  
• Travel crate arrangements and airport handling
  
• Customs clearances and documentation
  

We understand how important your pet is to you, and we treat their journey with the same care and planning as we would our own.

Wondering What It Might Cost?

The cost of pet relocation in India varies based on factors like the destination, size of your pet, travel method (in-cabin or cargo), and additional services needed.

Since every relocation is unique, we encourage you to reach out to us at Interem Relocations for a customised quote. We’ll help you understand what’s involved, what to expect, and how we can make the process smooth and worry-free for both you and your pet.

Quick Recap: Your Pet Travel Checklist

Here’s a simple pre-relocation checklist to help you get started:

• Microchip your pet (if required)
  
• Get all vaccinations up to date
  
• Visit a registered vet for a health check
  
• Obtain your pet’s health certificate for travel
  
• Apply for the Pet Travel NOC
  
• Choose the right pet-friendly airline in India
  
• Arrange a crate that meets airline standards
  
• Keep copies of all pet relocation documentation India requires
  

And if it still feels like a lot, we’re here to help.

Final Thoughts: Because They’re Family Too

Relocating a pet involves more than paperwork and logistics; it’s about ensuring your companion feels safe, secure, and cared for every step of the way. By understanding the pet relocation rules in India and planning, you’re setting your pet up for a stress-free transition.

If you’re looking for guidance or hands-on support, our team at Interem Relocations is just a call or message away. We’ll make sure your pet’s journey is handled with compassion and expertise, just the way it should be.