Travelling With Your Pet? Here's A Checklist For Pet Passports And Other Entry Requirements

Global pet travel is on the rise, and we're here to guide you through all the essentials- from pet passports to accommodation and airline policies- for a hassle-free trip with your furry friend.

Travelling With Your Pet- Know Things You Need To Keep In Mind

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It is scientifically proven that pets, especially cats and dogs are beneficial for human hearts. In today’s world, where socialising is less common, pets have become humans' new best friends. Pet owners treat them as family members and even travel worldwide with them. Though it requires extensive research, documentation, and preparation, if you're planning to embark on your next destination with your furry friend and are confused about how to make it possible, we have your back. In this article, we will unravel all essentials like Pet Passport, accommodation options, and airline policies to make your trip with your pet easy-peasy.

Do Not Travel Spontaneously:

First and the most important point to remember is- do not travel spontaneously.

To take your furry friend on your next adventure, start preparing 3-4 months in advance. You will need a pet passport, vaccinations proof, and other health certificates for the journey. You will need time to train your dog for the upcoming adventure. So don't rush this decision, as proper preparation is crucial.

There are many factors to consider, such as countries where pets from other countries are not allowed, what kind of certificates you will need and how to travel, as each country and airline have different rules and regulations when it comes to pet travel.

Planning your trip last minute can result in loss of money, your loving pet, and your peace of mind.

Take time, do research, read policies, visit the vet, and start planning your trip months in advance.

Pet Passport & Other Entry Requirements:

A pet passport is a collection of documents like a health certificate, rabies or other vaccination certificates, microchip certificates, import permits, FAVN test results, etc., required for your pet to enter the destination country when traveling internationally.

All documents are issued in the originating country by a licensed veterinarian and may or may not need a government veterinarian to endorse the forms.

Each country will require you to fill out a pet passport, which sounds normal but can be hectic to manage.

While almost all EU countries have the same requirements for pet travel, you may have to quarantine your pet for at least 10 days in a few countries like Australia.

Here are a few steps of the process that are compulsory in almost every country:

1. Microchipping:

Travelling with your furry friend to an unknown place should not lead to losing it. So, not just for the country's requirement but also for your peace of mind, get your pet microchipped before embarking on your journey.

A visit to your vet and a simple, quick, in-office procedure is all you need to connect the chip with your current contact information, including a microchip number and the owner's mobile contact. This will help you find your pet if you lose it in another country. Whoever finds your pet can use the tag to determine ownership without having to contact a veterinarian.

2. Vaccination:

Vaccination is a crucial step. Pet dogs, cats, and ferrets can host a number of diseases but none are considered more serious than rabies. That's why, along with the overall health certificate, most non-European countries also require a rabies-titer test. As a rule, the rabies vaccination must be updated first. The titer test can be done after 30 days, and the result is received after another 14 days. 

Another important thing is to check the rabies classification of the country your pet is leaving from, according to the country your pet is travelling to.

The World Organization for Animal Health classifies countries into three sections: rabies-free, rabies-controlled, or high-risk. For EU countries, there is a uniform list of standard classifications, which can differ from other countries. You can check these details on https://www.pettravel.com/passportnew.cfm

An overall health certificate is also as important as the other documents, as most countries may not allow your pet to enter without this.

3. Airline Policies:

Spend time searching for an airline that will allow you to fly with your pet without any hassle and cross-check their pet policies- Will the airline allow your dog or cat to fly in the cabin with you? What are the restrictions? Will your pet need to travel in the cargo hold? Do you have to pay extra for your pet and other important details?

Notify your airline in advance, as most airlines have a limit of 1 pet per cabin (or one pet per economy class and one per business class), and the pet seat may already be taken by someone else. 

Check the size restrictions for under-the-seat transportation and cargo. If your pet is large, they’ll have to fly in the undercarriage with other animals. Almost all major European airlines allow dogs and cats up to 8 kg to travel in the cabin, as long as they fit under the seat in front of you.

Don't forget to take written confirmation stating that the airline has been notified about your pet.

4. Pet-Friendly Accommodation:

Nowadays, with an increase in the availability of pet-friendly accommodations worldwide, you can find a flat to rent or a house that provides the same. Read all the terms and conditions in advance, as some are completely free and pet-friendly, while others may have size limitations and additional charges.

The most trending and affordable option nowadays is house-sitting. Through this, you can stay at a pet owner’s house or flat for free. In return, you have to take care of their animals in their absence and look after their house. Inform in advance that you are bringing your pet. This will also be an excellent opportunity for your pet to meet new friends. 

5. Pack Appropriately:

Make sure your pet's carrier is stocked with all the necessities, including water, non-squeaking toys, chews, treats to help them feel at ease, extra food, and warm clothes if heading to a cold place. If you are a backpacker traveller, pack your stuff smartly because now you have to carry your pet's stuff along with yours, which can lead to extra weight.

6. Train Your Pet Before Embarking:

Travelling with your pet may sound fun, but it is also hectic and tiring. It requires lots of pre-planning and training to make it friendly for your pet to adapt to different atmospheres.

Start training them at least 2 months in advance and make them familiar with their upcoming routine.

• Training your pet before travelling is also essential to avoid inappropriate behaviour, biting, and barking constantly at anyone.
• Teach them to understand your instructions.
• Take them for walks in public places or on long drives.
• Before taking them out of the country, take them to another city or state to notice changes in their behaviour and reactions.
• Make their food habits flexible for the moment if you face a food shortage.
• Train them to be in a crate for a few hours continuously and to sleep in it.

Pets learn from how they are treated, so treat them according to the conditions you are going into, like temperature, snow, or rain.

Countries like Thailand, Philliphines, Canada and Germany are the first choice of the pet owners for travelling. From all the above steps, you can enjoy your trip with your loving pet.

Pets know the way we love them or shout at them, so always treat them with love, which will make this trip a lifetime cherished moment for you and them as well.