Qantas Airways – Pet Policy
Pet Travel Summary Table
| Pet Type | Cabin | In-Hold / Qantas Freight | Cargo (Specialist Only) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog | Only certified service dogs | Yes | Yes | Use Qantas Freight; snub-nosed banned/restricted |
| Cat | No | Yes | Yes | 12 weeks+; use approved pet carrier |
| Rabbit | No | Yes (domestic only) | Yes | IATA crate, Qantas Freight required |
| Bird | No | No (direct not accepted) | Yes (via pet agent) | Permits & species restrictions apply |
| Reptile | No | No | Yes | Specialist handler only |
| Fish | No | No | Yes | Specialist handler only (tank/permit required) |
Overview: General Pet Policy
- PETS IN CABIN: Only Guide, Hearing, or Assistance Dogs (service dogs) are permitted on board. Pets cannot ride in passenger cabin otherwise.
- PETS IN HOLD: Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and ferrets can fly domestically as checked cargo with Qantas Freight in special, ventilated compartments of the aircraft hold.
- INTERNATIONAL PET TRAVEL: Qantas does not allow pets to be booked directly for international travel. Use trusted pet transport companies due to complex quarantine and customs procedures.
- SPECIALIST CARGO ONLY: Fish, birds, reptiles, and some restricted species must fly with certified pet relocation agents.
Pet-Specific Travel Tips
- Dogs: Must fly cargo—even domestically. Book via Qantas Freight. Snub-nosed breeds require approval or are refused.
- Cats: Must fly via Qantas Freight. Transport banned breeds with caution and ask about permitted times/temperatures.
- Rabbits, Small Mammals: Allowed domestically with proper crate. Not permitted on cabin.
- Birds, Reptiles, Fish: Not accepted as baggage or freight directly. Requires approved courier or pet travel agency. International species rules & permits apply.
Container & Age Requirements
- Minimum pet age: 12 weeks (fully weaned and healthy).
- Crate: Hard-sided, ventilated crate following IATA live animal regulations. Must be leak-proof, escape-proof. No collapsible or fabric carriers allowed.
- Crate and pet combined weight usually ≤120 kg per shipment (check with Qantas Freight per aircraft/type).
Documents Required
- Veterinary health certification signed within time of travel
- Vaccination records, including rabies where applicable
- Microchip registration and pet passport (for international flights)
- CITES permits if required (for live birds, reptiles)
- Signed shipping contract via Qantas Freight or approved relocation agencies
Woofly Tips
- Use Qantas Freight for all domestic pet travel—book the animal before your own ticket.
- Use professional relocation services for international trips—never assume pets can fly between countries without permits!
- Always prep pets for crate travel with a familiar blanket, hydration, and short test runs before the trip.
- Label your crate visibly with contact info, emergency number, and pet’s name.
Last updated: July 21, 2025