Travelling abroad with your pet has never been easier. With universal recognised documentation, vaccination standards and fast track quarantine times, you can travel with your dog to pretty much anywhere in the world. However, it’s important to ensure that you follow all processes and do your research before embarking on your trip. 

If you’re travelling with your pooch for the first time to help make sure you and your dog are well prepared our guide is here to help. 

Dog travel is becoming more popular as dog owners don’t want to leave their precious pups behind but there are some factors you need to consider before heading off on your travels. 

Requirement vary from country to country so it’s vital that you check the specific guidelines for your destination beforehand but here are five important things you need to know. 

Pet Passport Scheme

If you are planning on travelling with your dog throughout the 27 countries that make up the European Union or back into an EU member state from further afield, you will need to obtain a pet passport. Different from the traditional passport like we have, a pet passport provides evidence and documentation of vaccinations, microchip and evidence that your dog is fit to travel.

If you do not currently have a pet passport, you will need to obtain one before you travel. They can be easily attained and costs range between £150 and £200, issued within 24 hours of application. If you require further information, it is recommended you speak to your vet.

Insurance

It’s not mandatory but it’s highly recommended. 

Similar to when we go on holiday or move abroad, it’s recommended investing in a specialist pet travel insurance on top of your original insurance plan.

Insurance will help to protect you if your dog has to make an unexpected trip to the vet for urgent treatment whilst overseas. 

Microchip

Across Europe, the USA and Australia, microchipping your pet is compulsory and to be able to leave the country all pets must be microchipped. 

Alongside the formalities, microchipping your dog provides you with a level of protection and detection if your dog gets lost or stolen while abroad. As countries are full of new, exciting or sometimes frightening sites, smells and sounds your dog may get distracted or attracted to something and runoff therefore it’s in your best interest to make sure your dog is microchipped and has all the relevant documentation.

On your travels, it’s important to carry a copy of the certificate and relevant information for your dog’s microchip.

Up to date vet records.

While this is not a formal requirement, it is in your best interest to have the necessary documentation of your pet’s veterinary records. Although your pet’s records will be tied to their Pet Passport, having a physical copy to hand will speed up the process with the authorities or veterinary clinics if needed

Vaccinations.

Under the DEFRA guidelines for pet travel, your dog must be vaccinated against rabies and fully kept up to date with regular boosters. 

After the most recent booster, you must wait 21 days until your dog can travel abroad. This is a mandatory requirement that must be met before it’s allowed to travel. 

If you are planning on travelling further overseas you must make sure you are meeting all relevant requirements of the country you’re travelling to. 

For example, if you’re planning on taking your dog to Australia, you must now that the rabies and RNAT test is still a requirement and that your dog will be required to complete a 10-days of quarantine once arriving in the country.