Essential Tips for Traveling with Your Pet

Traveling with your pet can be a wonderful experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Whether you're moving abroad or taking your furry friend on vacation, this guide will help ensure a smooth journey for both you and your pet.

EU Travel Requirements

When traveling within the European Union with your pet, you'll need:

Up-to-Date Rabies Vaccination

Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel. The vaccination must be administered by an authorized veterinarian.

Microchipping

All pets must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. The microchip must be implanted before or at the same time as the rabies vaccination.

European Pet Passport

This document contains your pet's identification details, vaccination records, and health information. It's issued by authorized veterinarians in EU member states.

EU Animal Health Certificate

For first-time travel or if your pet doesn't have a passport, you'll need an EU animal health certificate issued by an official veterinarian no more than 10 days before travel.

Travel to Specific Regions

United States

• CDC requirements must be met
• Health certificate from a USDA-accredited veterinarian
• Specific state regulations may apply
• Advance notification to CDC may be required for certain breeds

Asia

• Import regulations vary significantly by country
• Health certificates are typically required
• Quarantine periods may apply
• Microchip requirements often mandatory
• Some countries have breed-specific restrictions

Important Travel Tips

Choose Flights Wisely

• Book direct flights when possible to minimize stress
• Avoid peak travel times and extreme weather conditions
• Confirm airline pet policies in advance

Strategic Timing

• Consider your pet's feeding and bathroom schedule
• Allow extra time for pet check-in procedures
• Plan for arrival during business hours at your destination

Minimize Stress

• Use a comfortable, airline-approved carrier
• Include familiar items like toys or blankets
• Consider calming aids recommended by your veterinarian
• Maintain your normal routine as much as possible before travel

Airline and Destination Rules

• Each airline has specific pet transportation policies
• Weight limits, carrier dimensions, and fees vary
• Some breeds may be restricted
• Temperature restrictions may apply

Documentation Essentials

Health Certificates

• Must be issued within required timeframe
• Should include all necessary vaccinations
• May require endorsement by government officials

Identification

• Ensure microchip is registered and information is current
• Attach ID tags to collar with contact information
• Carry copies of all important documents

Pre-Travel Veterinary Visit

Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian at least 4-6 weeks before travel to:

• Verify all vaccinations are current
• Obtain necessary health certificates
• Discuss travel stress management
• Get prescriptions for any needed medications

At MyPeterinarian Copenhagen

We specialize in helping pet parents prepare for international travel. Our services include:

• Complete pre-travel health examinations
• EU pet passport issuance
• Health certificate preparation
• Microchipping services
• Travel vaccination updates
• Personalized travel advice

Contact us today to schedule your pet's pre-travel consultation and ensure a stress-free journey!