Visiting a foreign country with your dog can be a wonderful adventure, but it requires some careful planning and preparation. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you and your furry companion embark on a smooth and enjoyable international journey, including tips for going by air.
Research Destination Requirements
Each country has its own set of rules and regulations for bringing pets across their borders. Some countries have strict quarantine laws, specific vaccination requirements, or even breed restrictions. Before booking your trip, thoroughly research the destination’s pet import requirements. The current requirements can usually be found on the country’s government or embassy website.
Key things to check
Vaccination Requirements: Most countries require proof of rabies vaccination, and some may need proof of additional vaccinations such as distemper or parvovirus.
Health Certificate: Many countries require a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within a certain time frame before travel.
Government-Issued Import Form: Some countries have their own dog import form which needs to be completed by your local veterinarian +/- stamped by a government veterinarian in the country your dog is arriving from. You can typically download and print this form from the government website of the destination country (search the website for “Importing a dog”).
Quarantine Rules: Certain countries, such aa Australia and New Zealand, have strict quarantine regulations. Make sure you understand whether and for how long your dog might need to be quarantined.
Pet Passport: Available from certain countries, a pet passport is a government-issued document designed to expedite the importation and exportation of a pet between certain countries (for instance between Canada and the USA or between countries in the EU. A pet passport can be particularly useful if you plan to travel frequently between certain countries.
Microchip Identification: A microchip may be required for identification and often your dog’s microchip number needs to be listed on their vaccine certificate. Ensure that the microchip meets the standards of your destination country – it’s a good idea to make sure your dog has a ISO-compatible microchip since it can be universally read by a scanner.
Breed Restrictions: Some geographical regions have by-law restrictions on certain dog breeds, so check this out on their local government website beforehand.
Local Veterinary Clinic in Destination Country: You might require export/import paperwork to be completed by a local veterinarian for your trip back home (+/- stamped by a government veterinarian), so look into this ahead of time. In towns and cities with high tourism, veterinarians and their support staff often speak English quite well, but be prepared to use Google Translate or other means of translation assistance.
Veterinary Checkup
Plan ahead for the timing of this part, since vaccinations and antiparasite medications usually need to be administered at least 14 days prior to travel. Be equally mindful that exportation paperwork has an expiration date, so you might need to schedule that paperwork to be signed close to your travel date. In some cases, you’ll also need to allow time for a government veterinarian to stamp your dog’s export paperwork as well (in our experience this can take 2 to 5 business days).
Once you’ve confirmed your dog’s export and import requirements, schedule a veterinary visit to get your dog ready for travel. Your vet can administer any necessary vaccinations, provide the required health certificates, and give your dog a general check-up to ensure they’re fit for travel.
During your veterinary visit, it’s also a good idea to:
Discuss Travel Stress: Ask your vet about options to reduce travel anxiety, such as calming supplements or prescribed medication. At this point you should have already acclimatized your dog to their travel carrier and to loud/busy environments (see below), so a calming agent should only be at your vet’s discretion if your dog is still too excited/anxious in that setting. A consideration would then be whether travel at this time is even in your dog’s best interest.
Update Anti-Parasite Meds: Ensure your dog is up-to-date on flea, tick, and heartworm preventation, especially if your destination has a warm climate. For most countries, the current veterinary recommendation is for your dog to be on anti-parasite medication year-round.
Refill Prescriptions: refill any prescription medications or supplements that your dog may need during your travels. Make sure you get extra in case you experience a delay to your return date.
Travel Documentation: Your veterinarian may not be familiar with the requirements for your specific destination. So research those yourself, and if there is a government-mandated import form for that country, it will help if you print a couple of copies and bring them to your appointment.
Copy of Your Dog’s Medical Records: It’s a good idea to keep a copy of your dog’s medical records as a PDF file on your phone or somewhere easily accessed even when offline. John and I each have a folder on our phone labelled “Mira’s Health Docs” and “River’s Health Docs”, respectively. In there we save digital copies of their medical records, vaccination certificates and any government import paperwork. At customs they usually need to see the originals, but at least you have a backup copy.
Booking Your Flight: What You Need to Know
When booking your flight, look for airlines that are known for their pet-friendly policies. It’s best to book directly with the airline agent over the phone, since there is a limit to the number of pets allowed per flight; and not all planes and not all seats can accommodate a pet-in-cabin.
Here are a few tips:
Check Airline Policies: Confirm the airline’s pet travel policies, including carrier size requirements, fees, and any breed restrictions.
Temperature Restrictions: if your dog will be flying in cargo during hot or cold months, be aware that many airlines have temperature restrictions, above which or below which they will not allow pets to fly in cargo. It is worth checking on this directly with the airline, as it would apply to the ground temperature at both your departure and arrival cities.
Book Early: Airlines often have a limited number of spots for pets, so book your dog’s travel well in advance.
Direct Flights: Often it’s best to opt for a direct flight to minimize your dog’s time in transit and reduce the risk of issues during layovers, and import requirements (see below under Connecting flights).
Connecting Flights: For in-cabin pets, two shorter flights with a connection might be preferable over a long flight so that your dog has a chance to stretch their legs and relieve themselves. Note: your dog will need to fulfil import/export requirements for the country that the connecting airport is located in. For instance, if you are flying from Toronto, Canada, to Frankfurt, Germany your dog’s travel requirements will be for Canada and Germany. But if you have a stopover at London-Heathrow to catch a connecting flight to Frankfurt, you might also have to fulfill import/export requirements for the UK. So in many cases, it is simplest to not do a stopover if it involves an additional country.
Travelling with Your Dog in Cargo: If your dog is too big or too heavy to meet the airline’s in-cabin allowances, they will need to be transported as cargo. Airlines do not have the same exchange agreements for live animals, as they do for baggage. So, unless you book flights with the same airline for all legs of your travel, then each separate airline will charge a separate fee for flying with your pet. This can lead to high unexpected charges. With layovers over two hours there may also be a fee for care. If this is the case your dog will have a chance to stretch their legs and hydrate. Always check the airline website for requirements and restrictions before booking. When booking, the airline will need crate dimensions and total weight with your dog in. Dog crates will need to meet regulations for air travel. Follow these to the letter and bring your travel documentation along with copies to the check-in desk well in advance of boarding. Being well prepared for this stage of your trip will go a long way to reducing stress and starting your trip off with a sense of fun and excitement.
Preparing for the Journey
Traveling can be stressful for dogs, especially if it’s their first time flying. Preparing them ahead of time can make the experience more comfortable.
Acclimate to the Carrier: If your dog will be traveling in a carrier, let them get used to it weeks before your trip. Encourage them to sleep or rest in it at home so it becomes a safe space.
Exercise Before the Flight: Give your dog plenty of exercise before heading to the airport to help them relax during the journey.
Pack a Travel Bag: Include food, water, bowls, waste bags, a leash, your dog’s favourite toy or blanket, and any necessary medications. I pack these essentials (including two days of dog food) as carry-on in case my checked baggage goes missing.
Your Dog’s Paperwork: You’ll want to have this easily accessible when you check in for your flight and to show at customs. We place those documents in a transparent document sleeve, which keeps them protected from creases and liquid spills, and lets them slide easily into and out of my carry-on bag.
At the Airport
Arrive at the airport early to allow extra time for check-in and security. Most airports have pet relief areas—take advantage of these before boarding to help your dog stay comfortable.
Check-in: Depending on the airline, you may need to check your dog in at a special counter. Make sure all your dog’s paperwork is in order and easily accessible—a transparent plastic folder is a useful place to keep it handy and protected.
Pet Relief Areas: Most airports have designated pet-relief areas located before going through security as well as in the main terminal. Allow your dog to relieve themselves before the flight, and again upon landing.
Security Screening: If your dog is traveling in the cabin, you’ll need to remove them from the carrier during security screening. They usually also request that you remove your dog’s collar, leash and harness. They might let you leave on a low-profile harness, but be ready for them to ask for that to be removed as well and placed in the bin with your other personal items. You’ll then carry your pet in your arms as you walk through the human-security-screening device. Tip: for pre-travel training, it’s a good idea to practice walking around in stores carrying your dog (i.e. for them to get used to remaining quietly in your arms while in a busy environment).
Navigating Customs, Arrival, and Logistics
Collecting Your Dog: if your dog has been transported in the cargo section, they will likely appear in the oversized baggage area upon landing. Get an airport trolly so you can manage your dog’s crate and your bags.
Customs: Upon arrival, be prepared to go through customs with your dog. You’ll likely need to present your dog’s health certificate, proof of vaccinations, and other import documentation. Be patient, as the process can take some time.
Quarantine: If your destination requires quarantine, make sure you understand the duration and conditions beforehand. In some cases, you may be able to visit your dog during this time.
Plan Your Ground Transportation and Accommodation
After landing, you’ll need to get from the airport to your accommodation with your dog. Not all transportation options, such as taxis or public transit, allow dogs, so plan this part in advance.
Airport Transfers: Look into pet-friendly airport shuttle services, car rentals, or rideshares that accommodate dogs. Uber Pets may be an option in your destination city. Some airports may also have specific pet transport services. In my personal experience, hotel shuttles accept dogs as long as they are in a carrier.
Pet-Friendly Accommodation: Research and book pet-friendly hotels, vacation rentals, or campgrounds before you arrive. Check their pet policies carefully to ensure they meet your needs. Confirm whether your accommodation allows you to leave your dog unattended in the room. If not, you’ll need to plan to take your dog with you everywhere or arrange for doggy daycare or pet sitting services.
Enjoying Your Destination
Once you’ve successfully navigated the journey, it’s time to enjoy your destination with your dog! Here are a few tips to make the most of your time:
Explore Dog-Friendly Spots: Research parks, beaches, and other dog-friendly attractions in the area.
Follow Local Laws: Keep your dog on a leash where required, and always clean up after them.
Stay Mindful of the Climate: Be aware of the local climate, especially if it’s different from what your dog is used to. Make adjustments to your routine as needed to keep your dog comfortable.
With proper planning, travelling internationally with your dog can be a rewarding and enriching experience for both of you, opening up an array of adventures to share together. If you have any questions, feel free to leave them as a comment below or reach out directly to us.
Related Reading
Here are some articles offering a deeper dive on aspects of travelling with your dog:
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