Real Story: How a Missed Step Almost Delayed a Family Reunion
Moving a pet internationally can be one of the most rewarding experiences for a family—but it can also be one of the most complicated. That’s especially true when the destination is shipping pets to Australia, a country known for having some of the strictest pet import regulations in the world.
Meet Sonny, a lovable pup whose journey to join his family in Australia didn’t go quite as planned—at first.
What Went Wrong?
Sonny's owner originally attempted to handle the international pet relocation process independently, working directly with airlines and trying to manage Australia’s complex import requirements. Unfortunately, a few critical documentation and timeline errors caused major setbacks:
- Veterinary records submitted were incomplete and/or contained discrepancies requiring correction
- Incorrect timing on vaccinations and parasite treatments
- Lack of pre-approval for import permit processing
- Booking a flight without proper export clearance
Due to errors in the paperwork, the USDA denied endorsement, which prevented Sonny from traveling as scheduled with Qantas. As a result, the required documents could not be completed in time, and Australia’s quarantine authorities had to be notified to adjust his expected arrival date.
How Across The Pond Pets Stepped In
After realizing the situation had gone off course, Sonny’s family contacted Across The Pond Pets' international pet shipping experts.
Although the original flight had to be canceled, our experienced team in Los Angeles quickly took action:
- Arranged comfortable temporary housing for Sonny in the home of one of our LA team members
- Reviewed all veterinary documentation and coordinated the missing steps
- Communicated with the USDA, Qantas Airlines, and the Australian Department of Agriculture
- Rebooked Sonny’s flight with all approvals in place
- Rebooked Sonny’s arrival at the official government quarantine facility in Australia
- Confirmed he met the required 10-day post-arrival quarantine protocol
Sonny stayed with our LA team for one extra week, enjoying daily walks, belly rubs, and loving care while we worked behind the scenes to get everything right.
Why Australia Is So Complicated for Pet Travel
Australia has zero tolerance for errors in the import process. If even one requirement is overlooked or mistimed, consequences may include:
- Denied entry into Australia
- Extended or repeated quarantine
- Additional veterinary treatments
- Financial penalties and rescheduling fees
- In some cases, return of the pet to the country of origin
That's why it's essential to understand the full pet travel checklist before departure and follow the timeline precisely. From microchipping and vaccinations to permit approvals and crate preparation, every step counts.
Why Hiring a Pet Relocation Specialist Is a Must
Trying to navigate international pet relocation solo—especially to Australia—is risky and can be overwhelming. With Across The Pond Pets, you get peace of mind knowing every detail is covered:
We understand country-specific timelines and veterinary requirements
We coordinate with USDA, airlines, and government authorities
We assist with veterinary records and proper crate sizing (view crate size guide)
We provide real-time updates and solutions—even if something goes wrong
We ensure your pet’s safety, comfort, and compliance from start to finish
The Happy Ending
Thanks to the quick response and expert knowledge of our LA-based team, Sonny boarded his rescheduled Qantas flight to Australia fully approved and stress-free. Today, he's happily reunited with his family and enjoying his new life down under.
Don’t take any chances—let Across The Pond Pets guide you through the international relocation process every step of the way.
