It can be an unforgettable experience to travel the world with your pet. Travelers should review all local and foreign regulations carefully before taking their pet on a flight. When traveling with a pet, there are many regulations and requirements for documentation. These documents are often called “pet passports.” traveling with pets Even within the United States, there are many international companies.
Travel + Leisure We have gathered the latest information to make sure your pets are safe and comfortable on their trip.
Travel within the United States
Taking a road trip A flight or additional paperwork can be required for pets as well as their owners. Some states do not require a pet passport, but they may ask for a health certificate from a licensed vet.
For travellers heading on a journey with their pet For the first time ever, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA) has a less-known website that is an excellent resource. The newly-updated website allows travelers to explore Travel with a Pet This page contains the most recent state guidelines. You must vaccinate your dog or cat against rabies if you want to bring it into Texas.
The USDA also suggests scheduling an appointment with a vet who can confirm the health of your pet, provide any necessary documentation and make specific country or state-specific recommendations.
Traveling with Pets to Europe from the United States
The U.S. requires travelers with pets to provide proof of health, such as vaccinations against rabies or other diseases and identity information. the European Commission noted. These certificates can be obtained from authorized veterinarians in the United States. The certificate should be issued no more than 10 days before entering the EU and have a lifespan of four months. There are also other rules, such as declaring that your pet’s entry into the EU is only for “noncommercial purposes” and not for commercial reasons like being sold.
Travelers must carefully read all entry requirements. Failure to comply with the rules may result in a tragedy.
“If your animal fails to pass the compliance check, it could be sent back to the country it left, placed in quarantine for a period of time until it meets EU health regulations, or even euthanised if these options are not possible.” EU’s website states.
Traveling with Pets to Other Countries
Pets are governed differently in each country. Each country has different regulations and processes for pets. Mexico, for example, animals are not required to have a “pet passport,” but are frequently inspected upon arrival for any disease or wounds. However, when returning to the United States dogs must undergo screwworm testing in order to confirm they are free from the disease.
Mexico will be considered screwworm-affected as of November 22, 2024. “All dogs, including U.S. origins dogs returning to U.S. following a trip to Mexico, must meet APHIS certification requirements for screwworm-free entry,” the USDA states on its website.
Flying with a Service Animal or Emotional Assistance Animal
Airline policies and procedures are different for domestic or international travel with a certified service dog. These animals have been “individually-trained to perform tasks or work for the benefit of an individual with a qualifying disability, such as a physical or sensory disability, or a psychiatric or intellectual disability.” according to the Department of Transportation. Airlines may ask for documentation about the animal’s training, health and behavior.
Official service animals do not include emotional support animals.
The traveler should call their airline to confirm the paperwork and to add their pet to their reservation if needed.
