Traveling to places far away can be a fun experience and sometimes it’s a necessity. For pure enjoyment, a trip overseas can offer new sights and fresh adventures, which lead to a renewed perspective on life. When venturing with a dog to different countries because you have to, there might be challenges but you can still have a good time. If you’re planning to travel abroad with your dog, it’s important that you properly prepare your furry friend for the journey. It’s also essential that you be mindful of a few things while traveling, so that you, your dog, and everyone you encounter, can have the best experience possible.
The prep work before travel is all on you, but when you travel to other countries, you and your dog will have to act within the constraints of various rules and regulations that might not be familiar to you – or that you might not agree with. Through it all, keep an open mind and always approach the experience with love, and everything should go fine.
Travel Abroad with Your Dog: Pre-Travel Checklist
There are several steps you’ll want to take to get ready for international travel with a dog. These actions should be taken weeks, if not months, before your flight, drive, or cruise.
Prepare for Customs Laws
Different countries have varying customs requirements. Some places don’t allow dogs to enter. Many others state that dogs are allowed but they must go through a quarantine process, which can last up to several months. Prepare yourself for the laws in the country you’re visiting well before you visit. If you plan on bringing multiple dogs abroad, make sure the rules state that it is okay. Keep in mind that some countries may require your dog to be vaccinated according to its agenda. Consider the health of your dog and other factors relating to your dog to determine if you’re on board with required vaccinations.
Doggie Needs a Checkup
It’s imperative that you take your dog for a checkup before traveling abroad. You’ll want to be as certain as you can be that your dog is able to fly, sit for long periods of time, travel safely with regard to vaccines, and have a continuous source of medicine if needed. Tell your vet where you will be traveling, and consider all recommendations given to you so that you can get the big picture about whether or not it’s a good idea to travel abroad with your dog.
Find Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Unless you like to find a place to stay on the fly, and take whatever temporary housing you can get (if any), you’ll want to seek out pet-friendly accommodations in the place you’re traveling. It’s easier than ever to research to see if dogs are allowed in hotels, resorts, bed and breakfasts, and share-economy spaces. Remember to also check with any car rental companies you might be using, and other transportation providers like car hires and buses, to make sure your dog can be with you during travel.
Airline Requirements for Dogs
Airlines have various rules for dogs on planes, so it’s best to check with individual carriers to see if your dog can fly with you. But, there are some universal requirements you’ll need to adhere to regarding size and weight of dogs in airplane cabins. Consider as well that some airlines might not be ultra dog friendly, and their cargo holds where dogs travel may be too hot or noisy for your pup.
Traveling Abroad with Your Dog: It’s Travel Time!
While you’re on your journey, always keep your dog’s physical and mental well-being in mind, just as you would keep your own or another companion’s in mind. Let your dog know frequently that you’re there for attention and care, and try to stick to as many parts of your usual daily routine as you can. Your places for bathroom breaks and walks might be different, but make these normal acts a priority nonetheless. It might be difficult for your dog to get used to being in a carrier while traveling around, or sleeping in a new spot, but with you there, there is usually enough familiarity to get your friend through anything.
You are your dog’s best bud, and you will be the prime factor in a successful trip abroad. For help with crate training your dog in preparation for travel, or for any guidance in preparing your dog for whatever life brings, I am here for you. Unlike some people who market services like dog obedience training, I promote guidance for dogs through loving dog-human encounters, and it works brilliantly!
