Tag: Pet traveling

How to Travel with a Dog Internationally

Posted on March 28, 2024 - 2:50 pm by
A beagle sitting on a bed next to an open suitcase filled with clothes.

It’s decided. You’re packing your bags and heading overseas. Whether it’s for a few weeks, a few months or forever, there’s a lot you need to do to prepare for international travel. And that includes deciding on how your furry friend fits into your travel plans. If you’re a pet parent whose dog goes wherever you go, you may be used to vacationing with your pet. But an overseas trip may have you wondering if your dog can travel internationally with you. The short answer is: it depends.

It depends on where you’re traveling to and what their pet entry requirements are. It depends on your dog’s health and whether they’re healthy enough to travel internationally. It depends on how long you’re staying there.

There’s a lot to think about when planning international pet travel, so we’ve compiled a few tips and resources to help you out. Most international travel involves flying, so we’re going to focus on traveling by plane, but a lot of this information will also apply to other forms of transportation.

Your Dog Can’t Head to the Airport Just Yet

Taking your dog out of the country can’t be a spur-of-the-moment decision. Flying with a dog internationally requires a lot of research, specific paperwork and health checks. All of this preparation can take a while, so make sure you start the process months before you intend to travel.

First, Is Your Dog Healthy Enough for International Travel?

Flying internationally can be stressful for people, so imagine what it’s like for your dog when they have no idea why their world’s been turned upside down. Even dogs who are well-seasoned road trippers may find flying stressful. So before you get too far into planning, talk to your veterinarian about whether your dog is healthy enough to fly or travel in general. Your vet may recommend leaving your dog at home if they have an underlying medical condition that could be exacerbated by stress or flying at high altitudes.

This is a good time to make sure all of your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date. As you’ll read later in this article, your dog will probably need a health certificate that confirms they are up-to-date with their vaccinations (as well as other health checks). You should also talk to your vet about where you are traveling to and if they recommend other vaccines or medications for that location.

If you’re used to giving your dog anti-anxiety medication when you travel by car, this may not be possible while flying. Giving dogs sedatives or tranquilizers is typically not recommended for plane travel as the medication effects can be unpredictable at high altitudes and could induce respiratory (breathing) or cardiovascular (heart) issues. Calming wraps or anxiety vests may also not be permitted by the airline.

Second, Research Your Destination Country

The country or countries you’re traveling to will have their own specific entry requirements for dogs. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has a list of current pet travel health requirements for specific countries.

You will need to check that your dog’s breed is not banned in your destination country. Additionally, some countries don’t allow dogs to enter if they are traveling from a destination that has a higher risk of rabies. Your dog may need blood tests to check for rabies or other infectious diseases. For some countries, your dog will need to be microchipped with a specific type of microchip, so your dog may need a second microchip to meet that requirement.

When traveling overseas with a dog, you should be aware that some countries have quarantine requirements — even if you complete all of the required paperwork and health checks. So if you’re only going to be there for 10 days and they have a 10-day quarantine period, it doesn’t make sense for you to bring your dog. Restrictions could also apply to layovers in a different country to your final destination, so check their pet travel requirements, too.

Some countries may not be as pet-friendly as the U.S. You should check that there are dog-friendly hotels, stores, restaurants, etc., in the places you will be visiting. Remember to also check whether dog-friendly transportation is available, particularly public transport.

If you read about getting your dog a “pet passport,” this typically means the collection of documents needed for your dog to enter a foreign country — they’re not actually going to get a passport with a cute photo. However, the paperwork issued by veterinarians in a European Union member state is called an EU Pet Passport (these can’t be obtained in the U.S.).

Does Your Dog Need a Health Certificate?

Many countries require you to have an international health certificate for your dog, which was issued by a USDA accredited veterinarian and endorsed by APHIS. Health certificates typically need to be issued within a specific time frame before you travel, so check what that timeline is for the country you’re visiting. Other requirements often requested by foreign countries include blood tests, vaccinations, microchips and permits.

There are also regulations about bringing your dog back into the U.S.— even if your dog was originally from the U.S. To import a dog into the U.S., there are Centers for Disease Control (CDC) requirements and USDA APHIS requirements. There could also be requirements from other agencies or U.S. states or territories. It is your responsibility to check what those requirements are.

Can Service Dogs or Emotional Support Animals Travel Internationally?

Service Dog Registration of America provides information on flying with registered service dogs. You should check with the airline on their policy about traveling with a service animal or emotional support animal.

Can You Take a Dog on an International Flight?

You will need to check that the airline you want to fly with accepts dogs and whether they have any restrictions on which dog breeds they allow. For example, brachycephalic breeds — smushed-faced dogs like pugs, French bulldogs, boxers and Boston terriers — may not be allowed to fly, especially in the cargo hold. Brachycephalic dogs can have trouble breathing under normal conditions and so generally don’t make good air travelers.

Tips on Booking a Flight When Traveling Abroad with a Dog

You should book your flight as soon as possible because the airline may have restrictions on how many pets can be on one flight. If possible, choose a direct flight to limit the amount of time your dog is in their carrier. Multiple flights or layovers could add to your dog’s stress.

If you have a small dog, they may be able to accompany you in the cabin if they’re in an airline-approved carrier. Typically, the carrier must be able to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. Larger dogs on international flights will need to travel in the cargo bay. Keep in mind that the airline may have weather restrictions that prevent dogs from traveling in the cargo bay during extreme temperatures.

Airlines typically have specific requirements for dog crates or carriers, so be sure to look those up for your specific airline. If you are switching airlines or flying with partner airlines, make sure you know about those airline pet policies, too.

Preparing Your Dog for Air Travel

Once you ensure you have the pet carrier that the airline requires, let your dog become acclimated to it before they fly. You could put them in the carrier and take them for rides in the car to fun places like the dog park or a pet store. That way going into the carrier won’t be another new or scary experience for them at the airport.

When the day arrives, it’s a good idea to run off some of your dog’s energy before you leave, to help them relax and ride along more comfortably. Check with the airline if they have restrictions on giving your dog food and or water before your flight. If they don’t, you can ask your vet.

Before you leave your home, make sure you double and triple check that the latch on the carrier is secure so you aren’t chasing your dog around the airport and they don’t get loose on the plane. If the airline allows it, you could include a chew toy in the carrier so that your dog has something to keep them occupied, and chewing can help with pressure buildup in their ears.

As you can see, there is a lot of preparation needed if you’re thinking about traveling abroad with a dog. If you’re only going for a short trip, it may be better to leave your dog with a friend or family member, a pet sitter or a boarding kennel. You can always take them to a dog-friendly vacation destination in the U.S. for your next vacation. If you do take your dog with you overseas, remember to strictly follow the requirements of the countries you’re visiting — and that includes the requirements to bring your dog back into the U.S. It is your responsibility to know what those requirements are. Bon voyage!

A Taste of the Wild Guide to Vacationing with Your Pet

Posted on September 15, 2022 - 6:30 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Pets have never been a bigger part of the family. So it only makes sense to include yours on the family vacation, even if you’re traveling internationally. Before you go, we’ve compiled some tips to help keep everyone safe when traveling with pets.

Consult Your Veterinarian

Your pet should be healthy enough for travel and current on his or her vaccinations. Share your vacation destination with your veterinarian so they can determine how to protect your pet from potential risks in that region. When you’re escaping the snowdrifts for the beaches, it’s easy to forget about flea, tick and heartworm preventives, so make sure you bring the right parasite protection.

Update Your Pet’s Identification

No matter how careful you are, pets can escape and get lost in unfamiliar locations. That’s why your pet should have an updated ID tag on his or her collar, including the address of your destination and your cell phone number.

If your pet dashes out without their collar, a microchip provides a backup. Veterinary clinics, shelters and animal control centers can scan your pet and find out how to reach you. Before departure, make sure your microchip company has your current contact information, including where you can be reached during vacation. There are even GPS devices with apps that enable you to track your pet’s location from your smartphone.

Make Your Pet At Home In a Carrier

Whether you’ll travel by plane, train or car, it’s best to have your pet in a well-ventilated carrier. The carrier should be roomy enough to allow your pet to stand, turn around and lie down. Always provide a litter pan for cats and fresh water for all.

If your pet isn’t accustomed to being in a carrier, introduce it to them at home, several weeks before your departure. Pad the bottom with their favorite blanket and place treats or toys inside so they associate positive things with it. Leave the door open so they can explore inside, then try closing the door for short periods, gradually extending the time the door is closed.

Traveling by Plane

Most airlines make traveling with your pet relatively painless. Airline staff can be very accommodating to animals on most flights. Obviously, additional restrictions apply when flying with pets, but it’s not nearly as difficult as you may fear.

For flights within the United States, you’ll need a health certificate from your veterinarian within 10 days of departure that verifies your pet is healthy and current on vaccinations. International travel means additional paperwork and some countries require a quarantine period for disease control, so it’s important to determine what’s required well before you leave. Certain high-risk countries may have additional requirements, so be thorough in your research.

Although small dogs and cats may accompany you in the cabin in an approved carrier, larger pets generally travel in the cargo hold. During warmer months, try to schedule flights in the morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler. In winter, book flights in the middle of the day. Because tranquilizers can slow your pet’s breathing, they’re typically not recommended.

Traveling by Car

Inside the car, your pet’s carrier should be secure so they don’t distract the driver or become airborne in the event of an accident. The carrier should be anchored down so it doesn’t shift with the movement of the car.

Although dogs may ride in a seat if they wear a harness that fastens to a seat belt, avoid the passenger seat, because pets can be seriously injured if the airbag deploys. Regardless of how cute it may be, never let your dog ride with his or her head out the window while the car is moving. And never leave your pet in the car unattended.

If your pet isn’t used to riding in a car, make a few trial runs in the weeks before your trip. Place your pet in the carrier, drive around the block and then reward your pet with praise or treats. Gradually extend the length of the drive, ending somewhere fun, like a dog park.

Locate Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Before you go, find pet-friendly hotels along the way. Some may have limitations in terms of pet breeds and sizes, while others may offer special services like dog walking while you’re out for dinner. It’s best to know before you go.

Bring the Right Stuff

Things to pack include:

  • Your pet’s regular diet
  • Food and water bowls
  • Bottled water
  • Regular medications
  • Flea, tick and heartworm preventives
  • Cat litter pan, litter and scoop
  • Dog waste bags
  • Leash and collar
  • Bedding
  • Grooming supplies
  • Life vests for dogs
  • Sunblock for pets prone to sunburn
  • Current veterinary contact information
  • Contact information for clinics en route and at your destination
  • Proof of current vaccination status
  • Pet first aid kit

Consider a Pet Staycation

While it may be fun to have your pet accompany you on vacation, travel can be stressful, especially for cats and elderly pets. If your pet’s health or temperament could make travel a challenge, consider a pet staycation. Many boarding facilities offer group playtime, swimming and other activities. And if your pet can’t stay with a friend or relative, it’s possible to hire a pet sitter to care for your pet in the comfort of your home. With the right planning, a little R&R can do you both some good.

Your Pet Can Benefit From a Vacation, Too!

A small dog sitting out on a porch on its owner’s lap.

Unplugging from work and heading out on vacation can boost your happiness, decrease burnout and improve your overall mental and physical well-being. But did you know that your dog can benefit from a vacation as well? It’s true! Traveling with pets can help both dogs and cats emotionally, physically and spiritually. Here’s how!

READ MORE ABOUT HOW VACATION BENEFITS DOGS AND CATS

Tips for Camping with Your Dog

A dog sitting with its owner next to a campfire.

There’s nothing better than the great outdoors. Well, unless you include your pet when you decide to sleep under those shining stars. Here are 13 tips for getting outdoors with your dogs and having fun while keeping everyone safe.

READ MORE ABOUT CAMPING WITH YOUR DOG

Dos and Don’ts of Winter Pet Vacations

A white dog sitting in a suitcase on top of folded clothes.

Vacations aren’t just for summer. Sometimes you want to load up your pet’s crate into the car and escape the snow. Whether your final destination with your furry family member is a sandy beach or a snow-covered slope, we’ll tell you how to deal with your pet’s air travel or whatever else you need to know to get dogs from here to there. Here are tips for getting out of town for a winter pet vacation.

READ MORE ABOUT WINTER PET VACATIONS

Puppy-Proof Your Summer Vacation

A Welsh corgi chasing an orange ball along the beach.

Summer vacation with an adult dog is typically smooth sailing for experienced pet parents. But add a puppy to the mix, and suddenly you can be in rough waters. Traveling with a puppy can be quite different than traveling with a fully grown, fully trained dog, so here are some things to think about before you em-bark on your vacation.

READ MORE ABOUT TAKING YOUR PUP ON VACAY

Getting Away but Taking Some Home with You

A black and white dog being secured in the backseat of a car.

It can be complicated to take your dogs or cats on vacation with you, but it’s far from impossible. And with some pre-trip prep, the good far outweighs the difficult, and everyone benefits.

A new puppy text graphic showing a white, tan and black puppy lying in the grass.

Dog Boarding: How to Find the Best Dog Hotels

Posted on September 8, 2022 - 2:30 pm by
Checklist of Items to Ask Pet Boarder Infographic

You’ve booked the flight. You’ve requested the time off. And now you’re daydreaming of mai tais while relaxing on the beach. But wait … there’s one more step before jetting off: determining who will take care of your dog while you’re away. If you don’t have a trusted friend, family member or pet sitter to look after your furry friend, and traveling with your dog isn’t an option, consider a pet boarding facility.

What Is Dog Boarding?

Boarding your dog during your vacation could be a plus for them, especially if they suffer from separation anxiety, need to be socialized with fellow dogs or don’t travel well. Think of it like dropping a kid off at summer camp — boarding can be an exciting retreat for your dog.

Some pet boarding places are free-range, offering wide open spaces for the dogs to roam around. Some specialize in only cats or only dogs. Some even offer single-room accommodations with introverted pets in mind. It’s all about choosing the right boarding setup for your dog.

Evaluate Your Dog’s Boarding Needs

When choosing a dog boarding option, the first step is to evaluate your dog’s needs. The following questionnaire is a good starting point for pet owners.

  1. Does your dog do well with other dogs?
    1. Yes
    2. No, but it’s just because they need to socialize more with other dogs.
    3. No, absolutely not. They do not mix or mingle well.
  2. Are your dog’s vaccination records up-to-date?
    1. Yes
    2. No
  3. Has your dog ever been boarded overnight before?
    1. Yes
    2. No
  4. In addition to your pet’s stay, are you looking for behavioral training or grooming services? Some places also provide these while you’re out.
    1. Yes
    2. No
  5. Does your dog require special care (i.e., medicines, specialized diet, exercise, etc.)?
    1. Yes
    2. No

Diving into question number 3 for a moment: If your dog has never been boarded, it could be beneficial for them to experience overnight boarding at least once before your big trip. This will help your dog get a taste of what boarding entails and it gives you a sample of the pet care they’ll receive while you’re away from home. They may even make some new friends!

How Can Pet Parents Find Good Dog Hotels?

Now that you better understand what you’re looking for in a boarding facility, let’s move on to finding great options in your area. In addition to good ol’ Google, your local veterinary clinic or pet groomer could be great resources for recommendations. Be sure to express what you’re looking for in your conversations with trusted sources or in the Google search bar. And lastly, take time to read the reviews — don’t just search “best dog boarding places near me” and go with the first one that pops up.

Dog Boarding Pointers to Consider

After you’ve compiled a list of boarding facilities, grab a pen and paper to jot down notes, then give each one a call. You’ll want to discuss:

  • Immunization requirements
  • Daily and weekly prices
  • If they have veterinary care on call
  • How often cages are cleaned
  • Care for special needs animals, if applicable
    • Inquire about extra charges associated with caring for special needs dogs
  • Touring the facility prior to making a decision

Touring Pet Boarding Facilities

When touring a facility, pay attention to the cleanliness of the cages and the friendliness of the staff to give you an understanding of how their operation runs.

Signs of Bad Dog Boarding Facilities

If you’re touring a dog boarding facility, some red flags to look for include:

  • Sick animals mingling with others
  • Animals in cages not big enough for them to move around
  • Cats and dogs placed in the same area (co-pet boarding should include separate rooms for cats and dogs to avoid unnecessary anxiety for the animals)
  • Poor ventilation in the boarding unit
  • No on-call veterinarian
  • No immunization requirements

Boarding services who work with an on-call veterinarian add an extra layer of comfort — in case an emergency arises while you’re away from home, you can rest assured knowing your dog will receive the pet care they need right away.

You’ll want to choose a boarding facility that takes immunizations seriously. You do not want your dog to be mingling with potentially sick or unvaccinated animals for obvious reasons. Many facilities require immunizations for bordetella, rabies, distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and/or parainfluenza.

Compile the information you gather via phone and during the tour to assist you in making the decision that fits your pet. Employees at boarding facilities should want you to feel comfortable in your decision just as much as you do. Ask questions along the way and trust your gut. You know what your dog needs best.

All Aboard! It’s Time to Board

You’ve got your questions answered and your list has been narrowed down. How are you feeling? Ready to book the perfect boarding facility for your dog’s home away from home?

When it comes time to take your dog to the boarding facility, be sure to pack their favorite toys, food, treats and any necessary medicine. You’ve picked the right place and you can see your dog enjoying their stay — now you catch up on some needed R&R. Your dog is already giving this plan two paws up!

Planes, Trains and Adventuring with Your Pet

Posted on June 16, 2022 - 1:40 pm by
Taste of the Wild

You and your pet have vacations on the brain.

Do you travel by train? Do you travel by plane? Goodness gracious, great Danes.

There are many decisions to be made, and taking your pet via air or rail can complicate matters. But not to worry! According to American Pet Products Association, approximately 37 percent of animal owners travel with their pets each year, and many of those opt for planes and trains. It can be done, and here are some best practices for doing it.

What to do before deciding how to travel

The first thing you should do is visit with your veterinarian to make sure your pet has the greenlight to travel. Evaluating their health can also help you navigate which mode of transportation would be best. For example, older pets who can travel, but may need extra care, might find it less stressful to ride on a train rather than a plane.

You might find that train travel in general can be less stressful for both you and your pet. Often, traveling via train can be cheaper and your pet can sit on your lap, opposed to under your seat or in the cargo compartment.

However, if your pet is fit for traveling and you’re strapped for time, a plane could be your best option. There are pros and cons with each that you will need to weigh carefully depending on your specific pet. Do your research!

Traveling can be stressful on a pet, especially if you’re both not prepared for your adventure. So, let’s get you set for your upcoming vacation. No matter which mode of transportation you choose, use our checklist of tips for the best air or rail experience possible.

An interior graphic detailing tips for traveling by plane or by train with your pet.

Buckle up for a fun adventure, no matter how you travel. You and your furry friend are about to make memories that will last a lifetime. Happy tails …er… we mean trails!

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