In this exclusive Q&A, we sit down with Shanaka Anslem Perera, founder and CEO of Pet Express Sri Lanka, to discuss the company’s 15-year journey in pet relocation, its commitment to pet safety, and the unique services it offers to pet owners worldwide.
Q: What is Pet Express Sri Lanka and what services do you offer?
Shanaka: Pet Express Sri Lanka (PetExpress.LK) is a personalized door-to-door international pet relocation service based in Colombo, Sri Lanka. As an IATA and IPATA accredited pet travel specialist, we provide a full suite of services to ensure the safe and comfortable transport of pets to and from Sri Lanka. Our offerings include veterinary services, customs clearances, ground transportation, and IATA-compliant travel crates, all tailored to meet the specific needs of each pet and their owner.
Q: Can you tell us about your founding story?
Shanaka: The journey of Pet Express began in 2010 when I was just 24 years old. On a scorching day in Colombo, I met a distressed British gentleman who was struggling to transport his dog to the UK. Although I had no prior knowledge of pet relocation, I helped him, which made me realize the significant gap in the market for international pet transportation in Sri Lanka. Driven by this insight, I established Pet Express with no initial capital or staff. Through persistent learning and strategic networking, I turned this vision into a reality, and now we have over 100 licensed partner offices globally.
Q: What distinguishes Pet Express from other pet relocation services?
Shanaka: Our commitment to personalized service and comprehensive care sets us apart. With 15 years of experience, we have developed a deep understanding of the complexities of international pet transport. We work closely with pet owners to understand their pets’ individual needs and provide detailed consultations to ensure a smooth relocation process. Our extensive network of accredited partners and relationships with pet-friendly airlines allows us to offer the most direct and safest routes for pets. At present, we manage around 40-50 pet shipments each month, facilitating the transportation of pets either from Sri Lanka to other countries or from abroad into Sri Lanka.
Q: What specific services do you provide for pet relocation?
Shanaka: We handle every aspect of the relocation process, including:
- Veterinary Services: Administering microchips, vaccinations, and conducting necessary blood tests.
- Documentation: Preparing import/export permits and health certificates.
- Customs Clearances: Managing all necessary customs and quarantine formalities, available 24/7.
- Ground Transportation: Safe transport to and from airports.
- Flight Arrangements: Coordinating with airlines to secure safe and comfortable travel for pets.
- Consultation: Offering expert guidance throughout the relocation process.
Q: How do you ensure the safety and well-being of the pets during transit?
Shanaka: We prioritize the safety and comfort of pets at every stage of their journey. For long-distance journeys with pets, we always schedule comfort stops along the way, ensuring they receive food, water, care, bathroom breaks, and crate cleaning services. Our team is constantly updated on the latest import regulations and health requirements for each destination country. We maintain strong relationships with major airlines to ensure compliance with their regulations and to find the best routes for travel. Additionally, our relocation specialists track each pet’s travel, keeping pet owners informed throughout the process. In rare cases of unforeseen circumstances, we know exactly how to manage them and ensure the pet arrives safely.
Q: What challenges do pet owners face when relocating their pets internationally?
Shanaka: International pet relocation can be incredibly complex due to frequently changing regulations set by various governments and agencies. Inexperienced pet shippers often encounter issues that can delay or complicate the process. Our extensive knowledge and experience help us navigate these complexities. We keep a close eye on any regulatory changes and ensure all necessary paperwork is in order, preventing surprises for pet owners.
Q: Can you share any memorable experiences or testimonials from clients?
Shanaka: One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is witnessing the reunion between pets and their owners. Coordinating a successful relocation requires careful planning and attention to detail, but seeing a family reunited with their beloved pet is incredibly fulfilling. We’ve received numerous testimonials from satisfied clients, many of whom express gratitude for our dedication and support throughout the process.
Q: How can potential clients get in touch with Pet Express Sri Lanka?
Shanaka: Interested pet owners can reach us via email at info@petexpress.lk or visit our website at PetExpress.LK for more information. We offer free consultations and are always ready to discuss how we can assist with their pet relocation needs.
Q: What is your closing message to pet owners considering international relocation?
Shanaka: At Pet Express, we are passionate about providing efficient and premium pet relocation services. We understand that relocating can be a challenging time for families, and we strive to make the journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our mission is to help families stay together during these transitions, ensuring their pets have the safest and most comfortable journey possible. Thank you for considering us for your pet’s travel needs!