Pet and Owner Wellbeing

Beyond Logistics Approach

Pet relocation is not only a regulatory and logistical process. It is also a physiological experience for the animal.

Scientific studies in companion animals have shown that pet stress responses can reflect those of their owners, including measurable changes in heart rate and cortisol levels.

This means that how the owner prepares in the days before departure directly influences how the animal experiences the journey.

ZAPS integrates practical well-being guidance alongside preparation aligned with IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) and MOCCAE-accredited veterinary requirements.

Pet Well-Being

The Travel Crate Must Become a Safe Place

Introduce the crate gradually in the home environment.
Allow the pet to enter and rest voluntarily.
Leave the crate accessible in the living space.
Avoid forcing the animal inside.
Place inside the crate a worn T-shirt carrying the scent of the person the pet is most attached to.
The same T-shirt used during crate familiarisation should remain with the pet during the journey.
The crate should feel familiar and safe before the journey begins.

Stability Before Departure

Maintain normal feeding schedule.
Maintain usual food.
Maintain sleeping locations.
Maintain daily routines.
Avoid sudden changes before travel.

Calm Human Behaviour Matters

Keep a steady tone of voice.
Avoid raised voices.
Avoid shouting.
Avoid sudden movements.
Avoid abrupt handling.
Maintain calm interactions in the 24–48 hours before departure.

Pet Well-Being

Recommended

Stay hydrated throughout the day.
Eat light and regular meals.
Walk or move a few hours before departure if possible.
Sleep as well as possible the night before.
Prepare documents and bags in advance.
Allow buffer time before check-in.
Keep departure calm and structured.

Avoid

Alcohol in the 24 hours before departure.
Excess caffeine if it increases anxiety.
Last-minute preparation.
Rushing to the airport.
Loud calls or arguments around the pet.
Emotional farewell scenes around the pet.

The ZAPS Approach

Procedures aligned with IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR).
Preparation with MOCCAE-accredited veterinarians.
Structured travel planning.
Practical well-being guidance.
Preparation of both the pet and the owner.

After Arrival – The First 48 Hours

The first 24–48 hours after arrival are a critical adaptation period for the pet. A calm and predictable environment helps reduce stress and supports recovery after travel.

Recommended

Prepare a quiet room or area before the pet arrives.
Allow the pet to explore at its own pace.
Reintroduce familiar objects such as blankets or toys.
Maintain feeding routines as consistently as possible.
Offer small amounts of food and fresh water.
Keep lighting and noise levels moderate.
Allow the pet to rest without interruption.
Observe behaviour and appetite during the first days.

Avoid

Introducing too many new spaces immediately.
Visitors or social gatherings in the first days.
Sudden changes in feeding routine.
Loud environments.
Forcing interaction if the pet seeks isolation.