Checklist for Pet Travel

Is an import permit required?

Is a microchip required?

What vaccinations are required and when should they be administered?

Is there a Blood Titer Test (RNATT) test required?

Is an internal and internal parasite requirement? 

Is there a need to make quarantine arrangements?

Must my pet arrive as manifest cargo?

Check out pet import requirements on over 240 countries. 

Pet carrier must have waterproof bottom, adequate ventilation and be secure. Your pet must be able to stand up and turn around in its carrier.

Pet crate for larger cats and dogs (or those traveling in a cargo hold) must have a waterproof bottom, spring lock, adequate ventilation and meet other IATA requirements.

Put lots of familiar things in the crate or carrier including something with your scent.

Encourage your pet to rest and nap in its carrier bottom

Leave the door open so your pet can go in and out of the crate or carrier 

Take them for drives or walks to someplace fun in their crate or carrier 

Spend time praising your pet for loving their crate or carrier.

Check for health

Have your pet microchipped with a 15 digit ISO 11784/11785 microchip before vaccination if necessary 

Verify rabies vaccination expiration

Discuss any titer test or other testing that must be done 

Check for road construction or traffic issues if traveling on the ground. Set your route in a routing device such as Garmin or in your smart phone if you have one.

If you are flying, stay clear of airports that are more challenging to transit (London, Taiwan, Australia, China)

Keep layovers to 2 hours if possible. 

Do not change airlines - changing planes is ok; changing airline companies is not. 

Find a great pet friendly hotel and contact them prior to booking online to verify their pet policies. Most times, booking online will give you the best prices.

Find an animal hospital nearby in case of emergencies and bring along the information. 

Find pet friendly parks and restaurants nearby so you and your pet can enjoy your stay. 

Leash and collar

Name tag (with your cell phone number on it)

Picture of you and your pet (in case you should be separated) 

Bottled water and a portable water dish

Supply of sealed pet food, dish, and spoon

Dog or cat treats (all good pets deserve a treat now and then) 

Brush

Shampoo

Toys (save a special chew bone for the trip in the car) 

Medication (including eye and ear drops, ear powder, tweezers for removing burrs, and any pills or vitamins your pet may be taking) 

Pet harness for riding in the car (pets need to be "buckled up for safety") 

An old sheet or two for covering up hotel furniture that your pet may jump up on 

Plastic bags for picking up after your pet

A clean pet will be a comfortable pet. Help them put their best paw forward on their trip. 

We have current and accurate information on traveling with your pet by air, sea or ground.