The Ultimate Guide to Travelling with Your Dog: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles!

Hello, fur-iends! Are you planning a trip and want to bring your four-legged companion along for the ride? Whether you're flying high, riding the rails, or hitting the open road, we’ve got the scoop on everything you need to know to make travelling with your dog a tail-wagging success!

Preparation is Key

Before embarking on your adventure, preparation is crucial. Here's a checklist to get you started:

1. Vet Visit: Ensure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. Get a health certificate if needed, especially for air travel.
2. ID Tags & Microchip: Make sure your dog’s ID tags are current, and their microchip information is up-to-date.
3. Comfort Items: Bring your dog’s favorite blanket or toy to provide comfort in unfamiliar settings.
4. Travel Crate: Invest in a sturdy, well-ventilated travel crate. It should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
5. Food & Water: Pack enough food, treats, and water for the journey, along with portable bowls.
6. Health & Safety: Bring a first aid kit, any necessary medications, and waste bags.
7. Plan for Breaks: Schedule regular potty breaks and exercise time.

Flying High with Your Furry Friend

Airline Policies

Flying with your dog requires extra attention to detail. Each airline has different policies. The majority will not accept pets of any kind except for Service dogs. You also want to check what the rules are on arrival and if there are restrictions because of Rabies and other diseases. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:

• British Airways: If you’re travelling with a recognised service dog, it can travel with you free of charge in the cabin of your British Airways flight. This service cannot be booked online and we might need to limit the number of dogs we can carry in the cabin. Find out more on the BA website here...
• EasyJet: Animals are not allowed on our flights, apart from recognised registered guide and assistance dogs.
• Ryanair: No animals are allowed on any Ryanair flights, whether in the cabin or the hold, except assistance and guide dogs. These must be booked in advance and a pet passport or official vet health certificate must be presented. Only four maximum service dogs are allowed per flight.
• American Airlines: Depending on animal breed and size, they can travel as a carry-on or be transported through American Airlines Cargo. Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet the size, age and destination requirements. You can only travel with pets on American Airlines to Within the 48 contiguous United States, The U.S. and Canada*, Alaska, Mexico*, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, St. Thomas.

Tips for a Smooth Flight

• Book Early: Airlines have limited space for pets, so reserve your spot early.
• Carrier Training: Get your dog accustomed to their travel carrier well before the trip.
• Exercise: Tire your dog out with a good walk before the flight.
• Stay Calm: Dogs can pick up on your anxiety, so remain calm and positive.

All Aboard the Doggy Express: Travelling by Train

Train Travel

Good news, dog lovers! Many train services are dog-friendly. Here’s how it works:

• UK Trains (e.g., National Rail): Dogs can travel for free, but they must be on a lead or in a carrier. They are allowed to sit with you, but not on seats.
• Eurostar: Only service dogs are allowed.
• Amtrak (USA): Dogs under 20 pounds can travel for a fee of $26. They must stay in a carrier at all times.

Tips for Train Travel

• Reserve a Spot: Some train services require a reservation for your dog.
• Comfort First: Bring a blanket or mat for your dog to lie on.
• Mind the Paws: Be cautious of gaps between the train and platform.
• Respect Fellow Passengers: Ensure your dog is well-behaved and doesn’t disturb others.
• Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to get settled before the train departs.
• Mind the Gaps: Be cautious of the gap between the train and the platform. Lift smaller dogs or guide larger ones carefully.

Here is the guidance from National Rail Network.

Both on the train and at stations, we kindly ask you to keep your dog on a lead or in a pet carrier – whichever you and your furry friend prefer. As for other animals (such as cats or birds), please keep them in a pet carrier or similar.

Pet carriers must be rigid and not open, to prevent escape. Your pet must be able to stand and lie down comfortably inside the carrier.

Hitting the Open Road: Car Travel with Your Dog

Road Trip Essentials

Car travel offers the most flexibility, but it still requires planning:

• Safety First: Use a dog seat belt, harness, or crate to keep your dog safe.
• Comfortable Temperature: Never leave your dog in a hot car. Use sunshades and keep the AC on.
• Frequent Stops: Plan for potty and exercise breaks every few hours.
• Hydration: Keep water handy and offer it frequently.
• Entertainment: Bring toys and chews to keep your dog occupied.

Road Trip Tips

• Practice Runs: Take your dog on shorter trips to get them used to the car.
• Secure the Area: Ensure your dog can’t reach harmful items or get stuck.
• Window Safety: Use window guards if your dog likes to stick their head out.

Government Guidelines

Always check the latest government guidelines for travelling with pets. These can include health certificates, vaccination requirements, and quarantine regulations for international travel. For UK travelers, visit the UK Government’s Pet Travel page for the most up-to-date information.

Bon Voyage!

Travelling with your dog can be a delightful experience with the right preparation. Whether by plane, train, or car, your dog’s safety and comfort should always come first. So pack those bags, grab the leash, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure with your furry best friend!

Happy travels, and don’t forget to share your journey with us on Instagram using #DogsDogsDogsTravels!

Woofs and wags,