Traveling with pets can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its own set of questions and considerations. Here are some frequently asked questions about pet travel, along with their answers:
What is a Pet Passport?
We refer to the collection of documents required to import your pet to a foreign country as a “pet passport.” These documents can include health and rabies certificates, an import permit (if required), rabies titer test results (if required), a tapeworm certificate (if required), and any other documents issued by your veterinarian that customs officials in the destination country will require at customs clearance.
This reference is not to be confused with an EU Pet Passport, which is issued in the European Union (EU) to EU-resident dogs, cats, or ferrets, or those owners with an EU address. If you are traveling to the EU and will be there for 4 months or more, you can also get an EU Pet Passport for your pet. EU Pet Passports are valid to travel to any EU Member State, Norway, Switzerland, and Northern Ireland.
Related: More information on EU Pet Passports
How much will it cost to fly my pet?
There are 3 ways your pet can fly, as long as your airline offers these services.
Pets flying in the cabin: Most airlines will only fly small dogs or cats in the cabin. This class of service is offered according to airline pet policies if your pet weighs under 8 kg (including its carrier) and can be stowed under the seat in front of you. Your pet is checked in at the terminal ticket counter. The cost for this class of service can range from approximately $95 USD to $400 USD each way, if flying internationally.
Pets flying as checked baggage: An adult passenger must be accompanying your pet on the flight. Your pet is checked in at the terminal ticket counter and will fly in the cargo hold. The costs for this class of service are about the same as for pets flying in the cabin.
Pets flying as air cargo: This class of service is for larger pets, unaccompanied pets, or those not permitted to fly in-cabin or as checked baggage. Pets are checked in at your airline’s cargo facility, which is generally located on airport grounds but, in very rare cases, at the terminal. The cost of flying as air cargo varies depending on the weight and size of your pet and its crate. It is very difficult to estimate costs for air cargo; we encourage that you contact your airline’s cargo office for this information.
Is it safe for my pet to fly in the cargo hold?
While flying in the cargo hold can be safe for pets, it’s essential to research airline pet policies, choose a pet-friendly airline with a good safety record, and consider your pet’s breed, health, and comfort. Some airlines have specific breed restrictions or temperature guidelines for pets traveling in the cargo hold.
What documents will I need for my pet’s transport?
The required documents vary depending on your destination and mode of transportation. However, common requirements include a health certificate issued by a veterinarian, proof of vaccinations, and, in some cases, import/export permits. Find instructions and required documents for over 200 countries here.
Is it better to spend the night in a layover country or book a direct flight for my pet?
The answer to this question depends on how long your flight is and applicable animal welfare regulations. Generally, it is best to get your pet to its destination as quickly as possible. The less handling of your pet, the less stress for them. However, if the flight is very long, then a rest stop may be imposed by your airline. Many times, airlines will have facilities to care for your pet during the rest step without having to clear customs in the layover country. If you decide to claim your pet and break up your trip, then you will need to clear customs and enter the layover country. This option is not advised when the validity period of your pet’s health certificate is short. This will depend on your destination country.
My pet is taking a long flight. Who will take care of my pet during its journey or during the layover?
If your pet is flying with you in the cabin, get a good pet carrier and carry plenty of pet pads. Layer several pads inside the carrier. In case of accidents, take your pet to the lavatory and remove the soiled pad. You will have a fresh one right below it. During layovers, ask for a closed space so you can remove your pet from the carrier and provide it with a pad. Also, ask about a pet relief area. Many airports are installing these for the convenience of in-cabin service and ESAs.
If your pet is flying in the cargo hold, know that the crew cannot assist it during flight. During the layover, handlers will check on the level of water available to your pet and feed it if IATA regulations require that. You need to tape a small bag of your pet’s food to the top of the crate for that purpose. Further service will depend on the length of the layover and the facilities available to the airline in the layover airport.
My pet’s itinerary includes a layover in an airport in a different country before reaching its destination country. Is any documentation required?
If your pet is staying on the same airline both in and out of the layover airport, then, if your pet is flying with you in the cabin, you will stay in the secure area of the airport until you board your next flight. If your pet is flying in the cargo hold, either as checked baggage or air cargo, then your airline will transit your pet through the layover country. In this case, the layover should not be over 3 hours.
Note: Air France is an exception. They will require that you claim and recheck your pet at all layovers. Also, if your layover is in an EU Member State, your pet will need to conform to the requirements to enter the layover country and will need an endorsed transit health certificate.
Note: There are countries that require transit permits for pets flying in the cargo hold. Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and London are just a few examples of countries that require transit permits. The EU will require a transit health certificate when transiting from any country and a rabies titer test in addition when transiting from unlisted countries
If you are changing airline companies in the layover country, then you will need to claim your pet and clear customs to recheck your pet on the next airline. In this case, you will need to provide all the required documentation for the layover country. Generally, it may take 4-5 hours or more to complete this process, depending on the layover country.
How do I know that my airline will fly my pet in the cabin?
You can find airline pet policies for over 160 airlines.
How can I keep my pet calm during travel?
To help keep your pet calm during travel, acclimate it to its crate or carrier far in advance of travel. This is simply the most meaningful thing you can do to help your pet get through the journey. More on acclimating your pet to its crate or carrier.
Consider using calming aids such as pheromone sprays or supplements, providing familiar items such as blankets or toys, and avoiding feeding your pet a large meal before the journey. Additionally, try to remain calm and reassuring to help alleviate your pet’s anxiety.
Where can I find the requirements to import my pet to a foreign country?
We have current regulations for importing pets to over 200 countries. Click here for requirements for your destination country.
Are there any restrictions on traveling with certain breeds of pets?
Yes. Many airlines will not fly aggressive dog breeds or brachycephalic (flat-nosed) breeds. Additionally, many countries publish lists of aggressive dog breeds that will not be permitted entry. It’s essential to check with the airline and destination country’s regulations before traveling with your pet.
Why do some countries make my dog or cat wait after the rabies titer test?
The reason why some countries will require that your pet wait for a certain time after the rabies titer test is because, if your pet had rabies before being vaccinated and titer tested, the symptoms may not show up for 3-6 months. The rabies vaccination prevents an animal from getting rabies if exposed; however, it does not cure rabies if your pet had the rabies virus before being vaccinated.
Are there quarantine requirements for pets entering certain countries?
Some countries have quarantine requirements for pets entering their territory to prevent the spread of diseases. Examples of countries requiring quarantine are: Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Guam, and other Pacific Island countries.
What if my pet cannot conform to the import regulations of the destination country?
We would not advise you to transport a pet that does not conform to import policies. It is unlikely that your airline will accept it as they will check your pet’s documentation. If it does reach its destination, it will be either returned to the country of origin (at the owner’s expense), put into quarantine (if facilities are available), or euthanized. None of these options are good, either for you or your pet.
How can I get around the regulations to import my pet to a given country?
Under no circumstances do we recommend that you try to avoid pet import regulations. This could result in confiscation. Enforcement is another matter that cannot be predicted; however, your pet is not worth taking any chances of not passing customs clearance.
Is my service or emotional support animal (ESA) subject to the same regulations as other animals?
Yes. Service and emotional support animals are subject to the same requirements as other animals in their species. In cases where quarantine is imposed, the destination country will likely have provisions for home quarantine in the case of service animals. Know that ESAs are not widely recognized outside of North America and the EU.
Can I bring my pet on public transportation, such as buses or trains?
Policies regarding pets on public transportation vary depending on the provider and location. Some may allow pets to be in carriers or crates, while others may have specific restrictions or requirements. It’s essential to check with the transportation provider beforehand to ensure compliance with their policies. More information on pets riding on public transportation.
According to the regulations of commercial airlines, all live animals (except trained assistance dogs) must enter the United Kingdom as air cargo if flying. How do I avoid this requirement?
There are a number of ferries that sail between the EU mainland and England and Ireland. Most of them will require that pets travel in a vehicle, so you will need to make arrangements for that. DFDS sailing between Amsterdam and Newcastle will accept foot traffic. Click here for more information on cruise ship and ferry pet policies.
Le Shuttle will transport you and your pet in a vehicle between Calais, France, and Folkestone, England. You can have friends or relatives pick you up in Calais or hire a service like Folkestone Taxi or Pet-Movers.
You will need to get both an EU and GB Health Certificate to use this option. As both forms must be endorsed by a government veterinarian before leaving your country of origin, ask your veterinarian whether this can be done.
What if my pet becomes ill or injured during travel?
If your pet becomes ill or injured during travel, seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Keep a copy of your pet’s medical records and contact information for local veterinarians at your destination to facilitate prompt treatment.
Why does Pet Travel list pet friendly hotels anymore?
Although PetTravel.com specialized in listing pet friendly hotels and destinations, as the market grew, we found our niche in domestic and international regulations for pet transport. Large booking engines now have filters for “pet friendly” and pet owners have lots of opportunities to research hotel pet policies.
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