Traveling Abroad with Your Pet or Service Dog

International Adventures: Traveling Abroad with Your Pet or Service Dog

Let’s be honest—international travel with a pet or service dog isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Between airline rules, country-specific requirements, and trying to keep your dog calm through it all… it can feel downright daunting.

But it doesn’t have to be.

If you're planning to move or travel abroad with your pet or Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD), preparation starts long before you hit “book now.” With the right training, tools, and timeline, it is possible to go from overwhelmed to "we've got this."

Here’s how to make your global journey paws-itive from the start.

First Things First: Training & Travel Prep

Before you even buy a plane ticket, let’s talk about readiness—because an unprepared dog + international travel = stress for everyone.

• Carrier Comfort: Whether your pet is flying in-cabin or cargo, they need to feel safe and secure in their travel crate. Let them hang out in it at home, toss in some treats, make it their cozy den. This is their flying sanctuary—not a surprise box the day of the flight.
• Service Dog Training: If you're flying with a PSD, airport behavior matters. Prepare them for TSA screenings, loud announcements, and tight airplane spaces. This training is just as important as any paperwork. Have questions about training or airline paperwork? [Book a free consult call with me HERE].
  

Airlines: Cabin vs. Cargo (pet)

Once your pet is ready to fly, the next big question: Where will they fly—under the seat or in the cargo hold?

Most airlines allow small pets (under 20 lbs in carrier) to fly in-cabin. For larger pets, or for international routes that don’t allow in-cabin pets, cargo is the only option.

🚨 Heads-up: Not all airlines offer pet cargo services—and some restrict it to military or diplomatic travel only.

✅ What to Know About Cargo Travel:

• Choose the Right Airline: Some carriers specialize in pet cargo with temperature-controlled holds. I can help you find the safest option.
• Breed Restrictions: Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs often can’t fly in cargo due to respiratory risk.
• Weather Policies: Airlines only fly pets when ground temps are between 45–85°F—at all airports on your route.
• Age Requirements: For international travel, pets must be at least 6 months old (domestic: 8 weeks).
• Crate Requirements:
  • Must meet IATA standards
  • Pet must be able to stand, turn, and lie down
  • No body parts should stick out

USDA Health Certificates & Country Rules

Once you’ve narrowed down the airline, your next step: reviewing the destination country's import requirements.

Most countries require:

• A USDA-endorsed Health Certificate
• Proof of vaccinations (especially rabies)
• Microchip details

Start by visiting the USDA Pet Travel Portal:
👉 Take a Pet From the United States to Another Country

Pro Tips:

• Work with a USDA-accredited vet (prices vary, so call around!)
• Ask your vet to help follow the step-by-step country-specific guidance
• Don’t be afraid to call the USDA helpline—they’re friendly, fast, and genuinely helpful!

Top 3 Travel Tips for Pet Parents

🛫 Book Early: Pet spots on flights are more limited than exit row seats. Don’t wait—reserve ASAP.

🛫 Know the Dimensions: Check your airline’s carrier size and weight rules. Soft-sided carriers that fit under the seat are required for in-cabin travel.

🛫 Get There Early: Add 30–45 minutes to your airport arrival time to accommodate check-in, screening, and bathroom breaks (for both of you).

What to Pack: The Ultimate On-the-Go Kit

✈️ Never count on your checked luggage showing up on time—especially internationally. Always keep these essentials in your carry-on:

• Food & treats (bring extra!)
• Collapsible bowls & bottled water
• Waste bags
• Copy of veterinary records / health records
• Any medications
• Comfort item like a favorite blanket or toy

Final Thoughts

International travel with your dog takes planning—but it’s so worth it. Whether you're moving across the globe or taking a long-awaited adventure, being prepared makes all the difference.

✨ When your dog is trained, your documents are in order, and your airline game plan is solid—you’re not just traveling. You’re traveling confidently.

💬 Need help sorting through country regulations, airline forms, or training prep? Let’s talk—book a free consult here.

This blog doesn’t cover every single step of international travel with a pet or service dog—but that’s exactly what we’re here for. If you're feeling stuck or unsure, shoot us an email: [email protected].

Because a well-prepared dog means a smoother journey—and unforgettable adventures ahead. 🌎🐾