Guide to Getting Your Dog Overseas

Traveling with a pet sometimes turns out to be necessity. It’s important to have all your ducks in a row before boarding a plane, so here are a few tips to keep in mind if you plan to take your dog overseas.

Paperwork
The most difficult part of traveling with a dog is getting the proper paperwork in order. The travel documents required for dogs vary, but, at minimum, will include a health certificate, which you can get through your veterinarian. You might also need a pet passport.

Vaccinations
Your dog isn’t getting on a plane without up-to-date medical records, and that includes a multitude of required and suggested vaccinations. Rabies is non-optional in every country, but you might have to load him up with vaccines you probably haven’t heard of before, too.

Insurance
You’ll want to purchase travel insurance for your pet in the event of an accident. It’s usually pretty cheap and can be a lifesaver if your dog becomes ill while in another country, so don’t skimp on this.

Airline Regulations
Not every airline allows you to travel with your pets so check to make sure you’re booking a flight on one that does. They’ll generally list all of their requirements online, but it’s best to call and make sure you’ve covered all your bases before arriving at the airport less you get turned away.

Medications
Flying is stressful for dogs so it’s important to check with your vet for any tricks or medications that might help relieve anxiety. An anxious dog could soil themselves on the plane or panic and start chewing on themselves. Test out a few options and be prepared to dose your dog before getting to the airport.