Traveling with your furry, feathered, or scaled companions can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Whether you’re moving overseas, taking a vacation, or simply relocating, understanding the ins and outs of pet travel is crucial for a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your pet. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for traveling with pets, focusing on international travel and airline regulations.
Planning Your Trip
The first step in traveling with pets is thorough research and planning. Each country and airline has specific requirements and regulations regarding pet travel, so it’s essential to be well-informed.
- Research Destination Requirements: Begin by checking the import regulations of your destination country. The U.S. Department of Agriculture – Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) provides information on international animal export regulations. This includes required vaccinations, health certificates, and quarantine periods. Contacting the embassy of your destination country is also recommended to confirm the most up-to-date requirements.
- Airline Pet Policies: Airlines have varying policies on pet travel. Contact the airline directly to inquire about their specific regulations, including acceptable kennel sizes, breed restrictions, and fees. Some airlines allow pets to travel in the cabin, while others require them to travel as accompanied baggage or cargo.
Airline Travel Options
There are generally three ways your pet can travel via airlines:
- In-Cabin: Your pet travels with you in the cabin, usually in a carrier under the seat. This option is typically available for smaller pets that meet the airline’s size and weight restrictions. Keep in mind that some airlines no longer offer this option, and some countries may not allow pets to enter the country in-cabin.
- Accompanied Baggage: Your pet travels on the same plane as you but in the cargo hold. This option is suitable for larger pets that cannot fit in the cabin. Be aware that some airlines no longer allow pet owners to book their pets directly as cargo.
- Cargo: Your pet travels on a separate flight. This option is often used for international travel or when a pet is too large to travel as accompanied baggage. Shipping through a licensed commercial shipper is often required by airlines for this option.
Animals exceeding a certain weight (usually 100 lbs, including the cage) are typically charged as cargo, even if they travel on the same plane.
Health and Certification Requirements
Ensuring your pet is healthy and meets all certification requirements is critical for international travel.
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Veterinary Examination and Health Certificate: Schedule a veterinary examination within the timeframe specified by your destination country and the airline. The veterinarian must issue a health certificate stating that your pet is healthy and free from disease.
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USDA Endorsement: Most countries require that your pet be checked by a federally-accredited veterinarian and that a United States Interstate and International Certificate for Health Examination for Small Animals (7001 USDA-APHIS Form) be issued by that veterinarian and endorsed by the USDA. There is a USDA endorsement fee per certificate for cats and dogs.
NOTE: More than one dog or cat may be on a certificate. For other types of pets, check the USDA site or email [email protected].
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ISO Microchip: Many countries, especially those in the European Union (EU), require pets to have an ISO-compliant microchip. Ensure your pet’s microchip meets ISO standards 11784 and 11785. The microchip should be implanted before administering the required rabies booster.
As of April 29, 2020: Endorsement of pet health forms is now a 100% electronic through the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS).
Authentication of USDA Certificate
Authentication of the USDA certificate forms may be required by the country to which you will be traveling with your pet. Check with the embassy before arrival. The certificates are authenticated by the Department of State’s Office of Authentications.
Traveling with a Service Animal
If you’re traveling with a service animal, there are specific regulations you need to be aware of. Only trained service animals that assist owners with physical or psychiatric disabilities are allowed to travel in the cabin free of charge. Emotional support animals no longer receive the same entitlement. Check the U.S. Department of Transportation’s final rule on traveling by air with service animals for more details. Airlines may also require additional forms.
Emergency Planning
Pet owners should also consider the possibility of emergency situations while overseas that could require rapid departure or shipping of a pet. Take time to think about the resources your pet(s) might need and consider options for sheltering them in-country as well as making plans for departure on short notice.
Key Considerations for Stress-Free Travel
- Book Direct Flights: Whenever possible, opt for direct flights to minimize stress and potential delays for your pet.
- Acclimatize Your Pet to the Carrier: Allow your pet to become familiar with their carrier well in advance of the trip. Place treats and toys inside to create a positive association.
- Pack Essentials: Prepare a travel kit for your pet, including food, water, bowls, leash, waste bags, and any necessary medications.
- Stay Calm: Animals are sensitive to their owners’ emotions. Remaining calm and confident will help your pet feel more secure during the journey.
Conclusion
Traveling with pets requires meticulous planning, adherence to regulations, and a focus on your pet’s well-being. By thoroughly researching destination and airline requirements, ensuring your pet’s health and certifications are in order, and creating a comfortable and stress-free environment, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for both you and your beloved companion.
Before you go:
- Double-check all documentation and requirements.
- Confirm reservations with the airline and any pet shippers involved.
- Arrive at the airport well in advance to allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.
For further information on returning to the United States with pets, visit the OBC’s Returning to the United States with Pets and USDA-APHIS Bring your pet into the United States from a foreign country (Import) webpages.
