FINDING THE RIGHT PET TRANSPORT IS A CRITICAL PART OF YOUR PCS

Being in the military can seem like an opportunity to sign up and serve our country. While this may be so, whether you realize it or not, you’re also signing up to travel. Even when you’re not deployed, expect to move on average once every two and a half to three years. This can be a stressful time for anyone, especially pet owners. Getting your furry loved one across the state, across the nation, or even across the world are all possible hurdles you’ll have to overcome. Below, we’re breaking down the ins and outs of pet transport so that you can be better prepared when PCSing.

Suggested read: 5 Reliable Military Pet Boarding Programs For Your Furry Friends

How Much Do Pet Transport Services Cost?

The cost of pet transport is going to vary depending on a number of factors. On average, you can expect to spend at least a couple of hundred dollars for shorter trips and expenses that can cost thousands for longer trips across the country.

However, PCS pet transportation looks different for everyone. Everything from the pet transport service you choose, to the amount of pets you need to transfer, and so forth is going to factor in. In fact, the cost of pet transportation services can greatly vary depending on the company you use. Starwood Pet travel places emphasis on providing quality services at an affordable rate. Reach out to them today to request a quote on pet transportation services.

Military pet relocation reimbursement is available for those who serve. When it comes down to it, leaving it to the professionals can help both you and your pet get there safely with less stress. Here are some of the key considerations that can affect the cost of your pet transportation service:

Distance

The largest obstacle for those hiring a pet transportation company is going to be the distance of their PCS. It’s simple. The farther you have to move your pet, the more you’re going to pay. This is standard practice among most services.

Mode of Transportation

How you move your pet is also going to play a big role in the overall cost. For example, if you decide to fly your pet out rather than having them driven, you can expect to pay a premium when doing so.

Number of Pets

More pets are going to generally cost more. If you’re a cat mom of three instead of one, it’s simply math. More fur babies are going to require more pet transport resources and cost more in the end.

Type of Pet(s)

From local licenses to the service provider themselves charging a premium and more. If you have a dog or a cat, your rates are likely going to be a lot cheaper than someone with an exotic animal that requires additional care and consideration.

Special Accommodations

Older animals or those with specific dietary or health needs may find such accommodations with a pet transportation service. However, there is likely an extra cost involved. For example, if it takes longer for the pet transport service because your pet has to stop and walk a bit more than normal, then you can expect to pay a higher rate.

Equipment

If you need to have crates provided or anything else necessary for pet transport, you’re going to have to spend more. Providing this type of equipment, of course, will allow you to forgo the expense and ensure that your pet is safely able to make the journey.

What to Look For In Movers

Of all of the tips for military families moving with pets, preparing is the biggest key. Knowing what to look for in pet transport companies is going to help you find the right services for the member of your family that sheds the most. Here are a few keys to remember:

● Pet transport services need to be safe, reliable, and communicative. While costs are an important factor, the most important thing is that your pet gets to its new home safely. Be sure to conduct due diligence about endorsements, reviews, and additional certifications that may be relevant.

● If your pet does need special care or accommodations, it’s important to double-check that the service you choose can provide them.

● There may be additional services you deem necessary with your move. Pet transport has a lot of moving pieces, including the potential need for retraining, documentation transfer, microchip implants, and more. Be sure to inquire about additional services to find the right company for you and your pet.

Starwood Pet Travel is a pet transportation company that you can trust. They truly go the extra mile to ensure that your pet is comfortable, taken care of, and properly transported to your new home. For more information about transportation timelines, cost, and available services, visit Starwood’s website and request a quote today.

Related read: Have Pets In The Military? Military Pet Insurance Is a Must

Why We Recommend Starwood Pet Travel For Your International Pet Transportation Needs

There are many ways to take on transporting pets, but the best way is to let the professionals handle things. Especially when PCSing, seeing as you have only a certain allotment of time in which to reach your destination. For a stress-free experience for both parties, pet transport services are the best way to execute this mission.

Starwood Pet Travel receives military funding from the government for pet transportation, has ample experience with PCSing, and is proud to be a highly-rated solution for the military community.

As a Veteran-owned business, Starwood Pet Travel understands the military community because it’s part of it. The staff is well-trained for the job of taking care of your pet in transit and works with airlines and other partners to make your PCS as stress-free as possible.

Military families can even receive Starwood’s Pet Protection Plan for free. If you need pet transport, Starwood Pet Travel is the name you can trust. Request a quote for your military move today.

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This article is the result of a paid collaboration with Starwood Pet Travel.