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Are you dreaming of exploring new landscapes with your four-legged friend?
Whether it's a coastal walk in Cornwall or a European adventure, with the rise in popularity of dog-friendly accommodation and amenities, travelling with your dog has never been easier! However, if you're a dog owner travelling with your pup for the first time, it's natural to feel anxious and have unanswered questions.
At Groomers, we believe you and your dog deserve quality time together. That's why we've pulled together this comprehensive guide to equip both new and experienced dog owners with all of the knowledge they need to guarantee a safe, stress-free and enjoyable journey; whether staying at home or heading abroad.
Prepare for your most p-awesome trip yet!
Contents:
Can you travel with your dog internationally?
What do you need to travel with your dog?
How to navigate different modes of travel
Can you travel with your dog?
Absolutely! With a little planning, travelling with your dog can be a great experience and means that your best friend doesn't have to miss out on family adventures.
If you're travelling in the UK, although prior planning is required, it's much more straightforward than if you're heading abroad.
We'll come on to travel mode considerations a little later, but given that your dog is healthy, comfortable travelling and you've considered the practicality of your UK staycation for your dog (Is your accommodation dog-friendly? Are there plenty of dog-friendly amenities and activities? etc), you shouldn't encounter too many problems!
Can you travel with your dog internationally?
Yes, travelling with your dog internationally is possible. Still, you must ensure they are fully vaccinated and have all of the correct pre-treatments and documentation required to enter the country you're travelling to.
Whether you're travelling with your dog to Europe or beyond, you'll also be required to have the correct pet insurance for them in the event of an accident while they're abroad.
Always ensure that you check what is required of both you and your dog before travelling abroad, whether that's in the EU or further afield.
What do you need to travel with your dog?
The things you need to travel with your dog will largely depend on your destination. This next section breaks down the main things you should prepare and tick off before travelling with your dog. We’ve also included key documentation considerations for taking your dog abroad so you can get things organised ahead of your adventure!
Before You Go: The Essential Pre-Trip Checklist
The key to a smooth journey with your dog lies in thorough preparation. Don't leave things to the last minute!
Vet visit and health check
Before any significant journey, schedule a visit to your vet. They can confirm if your dog is healthy enough for travel, especially if it's a long trip or involves flying.
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date, and most importantly, check that your dog's microchip details are current and registered; this is a legal requirement in the UK and crucial for international travel.
Documentation
The documentation you need to travel with your dog differs depending on location.
UK Travel
Your dog must wear a collar with an ID tag displaying your name, address (including postcode), and, ideally, a contact phone number. Keep their insurance details handy.
International Travel
When travelling with your dog to Europe and Northern Ireland, you must have:
- Animal Health Certificate: Since the UK left the EU, pet passports are no longer valid. UK dogs travelling to the EU or Northern Ireland now need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) instead. This is a single-use document valid for 4 months for a single trip and can be shared by up to five dogs, but you'll need to have a new one for each individual trip.
- Rabies Vaccination: Mandatory for most international travel. Your dog must be at least 12 weeks old to receive the vaccination, and you generally cannot travel until 21 days after your dog is fully vaccinated.
- Tapeworm Treatment (Echinococcus multilocularis): If you're travelling to Ireland, Northern Ireland, Finland, Norway or Malta, your dog will need a tapeworm treatment BEFORE they leave the UK. A vet must administer this between 24 hours and five days before travel and record it on your dog's AHC. When you return to the UK, your dog will need a tapeworm treatment in the country you're leaving (unless you're travelling back from the places already specified). Again, this should be administered by a vet between 24 hours and five days before you return home, so arrange an appointment with a vet in the country you're visiting to get all the important details recorded on the AHC.
Travelling with your dog outside of the EU
If you're travelling outside the EU, doing this with your dog can be a little more difficult. Your dog will require an Export Health Certificate (EHC) given by an authorised vet confirming they meet your destination country's health requirements. They'll also need to be up to date with any relevant vaccinations and treatments for that country before travel.
If you're travelling from England, Wales or Scotland, you must also complete an export application for your dog.
Always consult the official government guidance for your destination country, as requirements can vary.
How to navigate different modes of travel
Once your paperwork and health checks are sorted, it's time to consider the journey itself. Read on and discover how to navigate travelling via different modes of transport and what this means for you and your dog.
How to travel with your dog in a car
For most UK adventures, car travel is the primary mode. Above all else, you need to make sure that however long the journey is, your dog remains comfortable and relaxed throughout. Here are some consideration points:
Safety
The UK Highway Code Rule 57 states that dogs must be suitably restrained so they cannot distract the driver or injure you or themselves in an emergency. This can be achieved with a dog car harness or seatbelt clip, a sturdy travel crate, or a dog guard in the boot. These aren't just for safety, they help reduce motion sickness for your dog by providing a secure space.
Comfort and breaks
Whilst driving, ensure proper ventilation and temperature control. Plan for regular breaks, at least every two hours, for toilet breaks, a stretch of the legs, and a drink of water.
Never, under any circumstances, leave your dog unattended in a hot car.
Travel sickness
Just like humans, some dogs can experience travel sickness. Help them by gradually acclimatising them to car rides with short, positive trips. Avoid feeding them a large meal a few hours before travel and ask your vet to advise you on suitable medication for your dog before you travel.
Can you travel on a ferry with your dog?
Yes, you can travel with your dog on a ferry, but it's worth noting that ferry policies vary widely by company and route. Always check your chosen ferry operator's specific rules well in advance.
Some popular routes to Europe, for example, Dover and Calais, offer pet-friendly cabins or designated dog areas. These are a great solution when travelling with your dog, giving them a comfortable place where they can be near you and where they can have a short walk when required. These cabins often get booked well in advance, so it's advisable to plan ahead.
Avoid using ferries where your dog must remain in your car for the duration of travel, as this can be incredibly stressful for them and, therefore, isn't recommended.
Can you travel with your dog on a plane?
Yes, you can travel with your dog on a plane. However, this is often the most complex and potentially stressful way for your dog to travel.
Most airlines require dogs to travel in the aircraft's hold as cargo, within an IATA(International Air Transport Association) compliant crate, which can prove stressful for your dog.
Small dogs may sometimes be allowed in the cabin on specific airlines or routes, usually in a carrier under the seat.
Rules vary significantly by airline, country of origin, and destination. Due to the unavoidable stress and complexity, avoiding flying with your dog is generally advised unless absolutely necessary.
If you must fly, make sure you're fully prepared for the journey, have consulted your vet and are adhering to all regulations before you travel to reduce stress for both you and your dog at the airport.
What to pack for your dog
Now you have your travel to-do list checked off, it's time to plan out your dog's travel essentials. When thinking about what you need for travelling with your dog, think of comfort, safety, health, and cleanliness. Here's a comprehensive list, with some of our top product recommendations!
Food and hydration
Pack enough of your dog's regular food to last the entire trip to avoid stomach upsets from a sudden diet change. Don't forget to always have plenty of fresh water available for your dog, too!
Comfort and familiarity
Your dog’s favourite bed, blanket, or soft travel mat will provide a familiar scent and a comforting den in new surroundings, reducing anxiety. Include their favourite toys and some chew toys for entertainment.
Health and safety kit
A non-negotiable for any trip, our Dog First Aid Kits are perfect for handling minor injuries. Ensure yours contains essentials like antiseptic wipes, bandages, sterile saline wash, blunt scissors and tweezers. We also recommend you pack a Tick Twister to protect your dog from parasites.
Parasite prevention
Continue your regular flea, tick, and worming treatments to ensure your dog is protected. When travelling with your dog abroad, discuss with your vet specific concerns like Heartworm or Leishmaniasis, and consider extra protection like repellent collars or sprays to keep your dog safe and protected.
Grooming on-the-go
Keeping your dog's coat healthy and clean is just as important when travelling as it is at home. Pack a brush or comb for daily tangle prevention, nail clippers for unexpected chips or quick trims, and pet wipes for quick clean-ups after muddy walks or messy meals.
Waste management and clean-up
Always carry plenty of dog waste bags, and make sure you use them when you’re out exploring with your dog. Then, if your dog brings the adventure back to your holiday accommodation, an old towel or a microfibre towel can be a godsend for muddy paws!
Travel with your dog with a little help from Groomers
With the right planning, documentation and tools, you can travel with your dog confidently and explore new horizons together.
Ready to pack for your first getaway? For all your essential grooming tools such as brushes, combs, paw and nail care, first aid supplies, and more at Groomers Online. Prepare to embark on a journey filled with wagging tails and happy memories!
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