Stress-Free International Pet Travel – National Dog Day 26th August

• World Nomads shares expert tips for stress-free international pet travel ahead of National Dog Day, helping pet owners prepare their dogs for safe and comfortable journeys abroad. 

• Advice covers health checks, documentation, destination rules, and carrier preparation, ensuring furry companions can travel smoothly alongside their humans. 

This National Dog Day, global travel insurance experts, World Nomads, is encouraging dog lovers to think beyond the park and plan adventures that span continents. Drawing from their expert guide, How to Travel with Pets Internationally, they’re sharing practical advice to make sure every furry traveller can cross borders safely, comfortably and with tails wagging. 

International pet travel involves more than booking a ticket and packing a favourite toy. Dogs typically need to be microchipped, up to date on rabies vaccinations, and accompanied by the right documentation, whether that’s a pet passport or a veterinary health certificate. Some destinations have extra rules; for example, Finland, Norway, Malta and Ireland require tapeworm treatment a few days before arrival. 

It’s also essential to check a country’s approved entry points for pets and to be aware of any quarantine requirements, which can range from a few days to several weeks in certain countries like Australia. Understanding these regulations well in advance prevents last-minute heartbreak at the border. 

Comfort is just as important as compliance. Airlines typically follow International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines, which specify that pet carriers must be roomy enough for the animal to stand, turn, and lie down, with good ventilation and access to food and water. Getting dogs used to their carrier before departure can make the trip less stressful for both pet and owner. 

Finding a hotel isn’t your only concern when travelling with your pet, as the whole point of bringing them along is to enjoy experiences together. There are countless pet-friendly accommodations and activities worldwide, from cafes and restaurants in France to beaches in Croatia, pubs in the UK, and national parks in Canada and the US. Europe is especially welcoming, with many small hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering options across France, Germany, Switzerland, and Spain. Airbnb reports that 27% of its listings are pet-friendly, with Colombia, Brazil, India, and Chile leading the way, followed by Austria, the UK, the US, Mexico and Switzerland. 

“National Dog Day is a celebration of the joy and companionship our pets bring to our lives,” says Jonathan Frankham, General Manager for World Nomads UK & EU. “If you’re thinking about taking your dog abroad, a bit of planning can make all the difference. Understanding the entry requirements for your destination can turn your trip into a stress-free adventure instead of a logistical nightmare.” 

Essential Tips for Traveling Internationally with Pets

• Microchip, Vaccinate and Identify 
  Nearly all countries, including many in Europe, require pets to be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and properly identified. It’s crucial to confirm the specific requirements for your intended destination early in the planning process.

• Check Destination-Specific Requirements 
  It’s not enough to assume one country’s rules apply everywhere. For example, countries like Finland, Norway, Malta, and Ireland have unique mandates such as mandatory tapeworm treatment shortly before travel. Always verify these details well ahead of time. 

• Plan Ahead for Logistical Requirements 
  Many countries limit pet entry to specific airports or ports. Some even with documentation in place, require mandatory quarantine. Early awareness can help you avoid unexpected delays or denials.

• Use an IATA-Compliant Carrier 
  Airlines typically require pet carriers that meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. This means the crate must allow your pet to sit, stand, and lie down comfortably, provide good ventilation, and include food/water bowls.

• Acclimatise Your Pet to the Carrier 
  To reduce stress during travel, introduce your pet to the carrier well ahead of your trip. Familiarity helps make the experience less frightening and more comfortable for them.
• Do What’s Best for Them
  Whilst a trip away with your furry friend may sound blissful in theory, the reality is that it may cause undue anxiety in your pet and the best solution may be to leave them behind. Whilst it’s of course upsetting not to involve them in the trip, the stress of travelling overseas with them may outweigh the benefits of bringing them along.

World Nomads’ full guide offers detailed, destination-specific advice so that travellers can focus on creating unforgettable memories with their canine companions, rather than navigating unexpected red tape. 

A few other useful websites to check out prior to booking your travels with your pets:  

• EU’s Europa travel guide 

• Europe’s points of entry 

• Traveling between US & Canada with pets 

• Bringing cats and dogs to Australia.