We recently shared some of our top tips for travelling in the UK with your dog on our blog, but what about if you are heading abroad? Can you take your canine companion with you, and if so, what do you need to do? With some travel restrictions now easing, the world is opening up again. Whether you are reuniting with friends or family, going on holiday or even relocating to a new country, here’s what you need to know about pet passports and travelling abroad with your furry pal.

Check the entry requirements for your country of travel

Exactly what you will need to do will depend on the country that you are travelling to. For example, there are different rules about taking your dog to an EU country than there is for visiting a non-EU country.

Travelling to an EU country with your dog

You can no longer use a pet passport issued in Great Britain for travel to an EU country or Northern Ireland. However, you can use one that has been issued in an EU country or Northern Ireland.

When travelling to an EU country or Northern Ireland, you will need to show that your pet has:

Been microchipped

• A valid rabies vaccination
• An animal health certificate
• Had tapeworm treatment (if you are travelling directly to Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Norway or Malta)

It’s important to note that assistance dogs are not exempt from these requirements.

Travelling to a non-EU country with your dog

If you are heading beyond the EU, the requirements for travelling with your dog are slightly different. You’ll need an export health certificate (EHC) and to complete an export application form (EXA) if you are in England, Scotland or Wales. You’ll need to nominate a licensed vet who will be sent the EHC, which will confirm that your dog has met the correct health and identification requirements before you travel.

You should also check the rules and regulations of the specific country that you are travelling to for any additional requirements well ahead of your journey. Check out the gov.uk website for up-to-date information too.

Flying with your dog

If you are travelling abroad with your dog, there is a good chance that you will be flying. Airlines do allow dogs in the cabin, but there are strict rules in place, and these can vary between flight providers. Most dogs have to travel in the cargo hold along with the luggage and any freight being transported. Some airlines do allow assistance dogs to travel in the cabin alongside their owner free of charge. We strongly recommend that you speak with your flight provider to obtain accurate information. For example, British Airways partner with PetAir UK for their animal export service and you can find out more about what’s involved on their website.

Is flying in the hold safe for my dog?

Absolutely, yes. Reputable airlines for transporting pets have a special hold area for animals that is temperature and pressure controlled so that it closely resembles those experienced in the passenger cabin. Your dog will also be provided with an appropriately-sized crate for their journey, ensuring they have enough room to stretch and sleep. You may be able to provide your dog’s own bed or blanket for the journey to give them the familiarity of home.

Whether you are planning a trip in the UK or abroad this summer, we have a range of travel products that can make your dog’s journey more comfortable.