Helpful Tips for Traveling with Dogs Internationally

Entry #2340, April 25, 2013

For dog lovers, traveling can be real fun if you can bring along your canine companion. Whether you are moving or just touring around the world, it’s not necessary for you to leave your dog back home. But, when it comes to traveling, dogs are much easier to deal with than people as there are lots of rules and regulations for animal transportation. So, before you buy a travel crate and plan to go globetrotting with your dog, here are some things to know.

Dog traveling tips for your family

Image via: 4.BP

Review the Custom Laws

Contact the embassy of the country you plan to travel to find about their requirements for carrying your dog along. Some countries do not allow foreign dogs at all, while others allow few specific breeds only. Also, many animals are subject to quarantine so make sure you are prepared for the separation as it could be challenging.

Trip to your Veterinarian

Have your dog thoroughly checked up. Inform your veterinarian that you plan to travel abroad with your dog. Find out if your pet is healthy enough to travel by air and what precautions you must adhere to. Please make a note that American Humane Association do not recommend to tranquilize or sedate your pet for air travel. Also, if your dog’s vaccinations and health is properly documented, most countries generally waive off the quarantine requirements.

Pet Friendly Airlines

Tips to travel internationally with your dog

Image via: Pet Cultured

While most airlines are pet friendly, there are some that do not accept pets at all. Contact the airline carrier with which you wish to travel and check for its latest pet policies. Also, as many airports do not allow pets or require an advance notice, be sure to find about airport requirements as well.

Lastly, for the safety of your dog, I recommend to opt for a non-stop flight wherever possible. Changing flights can not only increase your pet’s stress levels but can also maximize the chances of your dog boarding a wrong flight. Lost baggage is upsetting, but lost pet can be dreadful!

While it’s no rocket science to travel with your dog internationally, it’s important to plan way ahead of your intended travel time. Planning right will help you better prepare yourself and your pet for the trip and minimize the stress on both sides.

For more travel and pet tips on Stagetecture, click here.