Transporting your pet on international flights can be a stressful event, both for your dog and for you!
Want to know more about how trtransport your pet on international flights? Continue reading this article right now!
How to transport your pet on international flights?
Regulations governing the transport of dogs by plane may vary depending on the airline, so we recommend that you contact them to understand the specific procedure before booking your tickets.
Some companies do not accept transporting short-nosed dog breeds and others simply refuse all animal species.
Before booking, please make sure your dog meets all the age, weight and body type requirements of the company you are considering.
Take the opportunity to learn about administrative and health formalities: some companies require a certificate of good health to accept a dog on board.
Finally, make sure the company you choose complies with IATA standards.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards were established to ensure the welfare of animals traveling by air.
Not all airlines are IATA approved, so be careful!
What should the transport box be like to transport your pet on international flights?
In order for your dog to travel by plane, its transport box must meet several requirements established by IATA to guarantee its safety:
- The dog must be able to stand up, turn around and lie down without hindrance in his crate.
- The box must be rigid and its two parts must be held together by screws.
- If there are wheels, they must be locked.
The company will be able to advise you on possible sedatives to help your dog overcome stress and will also check to see if your pet's vaccinations are up to date.
To find out which vaccinations to give your dog before you go, visit the embassy of your destination country.
Some countries also introduce quarantine for dogs arriving by air and others require a certificate of good health, pest control and/or import permission.
What is the arrival of the animal like at the airport?
Your dog's arrival will usually be at the "non-standard" baggage counter, although smaller airports sometimes place pets next to standard baggage.
You will have to go through customs with your dog, during which the passport and vaccinations will be checked.
In some countries (such as Canada), this procedure is not free and you will have to pay the costs on site.
If you comply with the health and administrative standards of your destination country, this step will go smoothly and quickly. However, in the event of irregularities, your animal may be quarantined or, in the worst case scenario, euthanized.
Therefore, it is crucial to be well informed about the formalities of your country of residence, so as not to put your animal in danger.
