What happens in the initial assessment?
Olivier Zoppi, a certified dog trainer and behaviourist, and the team look at how the pet handles confinement, noise, and strangers. That decides whether the pet can fly on the planned date or should train first. Read more on About Olivier Zoppi and at olivierzoppi.com.
Cats are assessed for carrier tolerance and stress signals too. We do not sedate pets for flights as a shortcut; your veterinarian guides any prescribed calming plan.
How does crate familiarisation work?
Sessions start with the door open and a meal inside. We lengthen time in the crate only when the pet chooses to stay. Forcing the door shut on day one is how crate fear starts.
The goal is a pet who can rest in the crate for realistic flight durations, with bedding and ventilation that match IATA rules for your route.
How do you prepare for handling and short journeys?
We practise gentle handling, brief separation from the owner, and short vehicle trips where that helps. Anxious pets are not rushed; panting, refusal to enter, or frantic scratching are treated as information that changes the plan.
Can training happen during boarding or by appointment?
Yes. Crate work can run during a boarding stay or in scheduled appointments at Olivier Zoppi’s UAE centres. When your flight, the pet’s flight, and the new home are not aligned, see pet boarding before and after relocation.
Preparation and boarding happen at Jebel Ali HQ in Dubai, Creekside Meydan at Ras Al Khor in Dubai, and Abu Dhabi (ICAD I). Facility details are on olivierzoppi.com.
How is progress shared with the owner?
After sessions you receive a short written note of what was practised and what the handler should expect on travel day. It is not a government health certificate.
We tell you plainly if the pet is on track for the booked date or if more sessions are needed before an airline acceptance check.
What if the pet needs more preparation?
We delay or adjust the flight plan rather than push a stressed pet into cargo. More crate sessions, boarding with training, or a vet-led behaviour plan may be recommended. The relocation quote is updated before any new booking is made.
For the consultation service and pricing label on the services index, see pet travel training on this site.
