Travelling with pets abroad
Traveling with a pet can be rewarding, fun, and exciting, but it’s also a huge decision. If you consider bringing your pet along on your adventures abroad, there are several rules to follow. If you and your pet are ready for adventure, here are some tips to ensure the two of you have a stress-free and exciting holiday.
1. Is your pet ready to travel?
You might believe that your pet wants to travel with you because you want your pet with you during your travels. But a lot of animals are terrified of travel, new places, and strangers. Changing environments and noisy places can be stressful for them. So, consider your pet’s personality. If you are unsure about his, please consult your pet’s vet about whether your pet is healthy and can handle the travel.
2. Pet import laws per destination
Some countries have strict pet import rules, and you must understand these rules well in advance. Some countries have banned the entry of certain kinds of pets and certain dog breeds. Other countries require that your pet be vaccinated for rabies, distemper, and other diseases. Your pet might need quarantining for a period – and you must be prepared for that. You will need up-to-date and accurate information regarding all this and more from the consulate of your destination country. You can even get information about importing pets from companies like Fetchapet that help export pets to other countries.
2. Get informed before booking your flight
Ask for information about how your pet will travel. Ensure you book your pet on the same leg that you will be traveling. Find out if your pet will travel with you or in cargo. Many airlines insist on a minimum layover of three hours when your dog is taken to a dog area to be fed, provided water, and walked between flights.
4.Book your accommodation in advance
Many hotels allow you to bring your pet along. Some hotels and rental properties have a certain number of pet-friendly rooms available. However, many hotels have a strict no-pet policy. So, confirm in advance that your pet is welcome to stay at the hotel or rental property you will be staying in, and book a pet-friendly room.
5. Get your pet vaccinated
Ensure your pet’s vaccinations are all up to date. You might need to get your pet vaccinated against rabies a minimum of 30 days before you enter your destination country. Countries like France, Germany, and Spain insist pets are vaccinated against distemper before import. If you are traveling to Australia, your dog will need vaccination for bordetella, para-influenza, and canine influenza.
6. Get your pet microchipped
Your pet will need to get a microchip implanted, so it is easy to find him if he gets lost. A 2009 study reports that dogs with microchips are more than twice likely to be found, than are dogs without microchips. Microchipped cats are over 20 times likely to be found and returned to their owners. The microchip is a 15-digit, non-encrypted device that is no bigger than a grain of rice. Each microchip has a unique ID number. The microchip is inserted just under your cat or dog’s skin.
7. Get your pet to approve the cage
Make sure you buy a pet carrier cage approved by the railway or airline you will be traveling. Your pet must get familiar with and used to the new carrier to make the journey more comfortable. You can get them used to the carrier several weeks in advance. Step 1: Start by placing your pet’s bedding inside the cage – that will entice your pet to get inside the cage. Ensure you leave the door open and the top off. Step 2: Once your pet is used to the cage, put on the top cover but leave the door open. Step 3: Get your pet used to staying in the cage with the door closed.
8.Carry all the essentials
Medical records: Health records, proof of vaccinations, and medication information. Pet passport: Check with the airlines and the destination country if you require a pet passport. The right gear: Invest in essentials like a collapsible water bowl, leash and safety harness, and waste bangs. Carry a toy or blanket your pet recognizes and loves, so they feel at home. Bring along your pet’s bedding and place one of your t-shirts in the carrier – they will find that extremely calming.
Finally, a tip for you: Ensure you are a responsible traveler. You can get adventurous, for example, trying the local cuisines, traveling to local destinations, and buying locally-made handicrafts and gifts for your pets and other friends back home. But only purchase eco-friendly products and products made of raw materials sourced ethically.
9. Carry all the necessary documents
If you are on any medication, get a letter from your doctor stating that you require those medications. All the medicines must be listed out and include the trade names and their corresponding generic names. Carry a written record of your disability and any other medical conditions that you might have.
10. Recommend
Enjoy every moment of your travels and your holiday. As you take part in local festivals, enjoy local foods in great restaurants or helpful hotels, put positive comments in their social media accounts and online. It will encourage more businesses to invest in and adapt to mixed ability people and make it fun and rewarding for everyone!
