Long Term Travel with a Dog: What You Need to Know

A lot of thought goes into whether or not to bring your pets along for the ride when you're traveling (literally!). Long term travel with your dog can be an extremely rewarding experience. After all, dogs aren't just pets - they're cherished members of our family.

All that said, traveling with a dog (especially long term) requires a lot of consideration, detailed planning, the right luggage, and an understanding of your dog's needs.

In this guide, we're going to take a look at all of the things you should consider before taking your dog on a long journey overseas. It's absolutely possible, there are just some important things to keep in mind.

This guide was written by an expat who brought her two furry friends overseas!

Should you travel abroad with your dog?

It's a big question, but an important one.

First, it's important to know that traveling long term (and abroad) with your dog is possible, and thousands of people do it each and every year.

Whether or not it's right for you depends on several factors, including your dog's personality.

Some things to think about include:

• How long you'll be traveling.
• What the options are if you leave your pet in your home country while you travel.
• Expense (looking at both options: bringing your pet or leaving them at home).
• Your pet's personality.
• The location you're traveling to.
• What you plan to do during your travels.

Rules and regulations for long-term travel with dogs

Bringing pets in and out of countries requires a bit of research - and usually paperwork.

Different countries have different exit and entry rules when it comes to pets. They aren't the only ones, though. Airlines also have varying rules that differ from company to company.

In order to travel with your dog, you will need to make sure you understand (and can adhere to) the laws and regulations.

Health and quarantines

One common rule when bringing dogs across borders is around health and vaccinations.

Different countries may require different vaccinations (and proof of them). Which vaccinations are required may also differ depending on your home country.

Some common requirements when bringing dogs around the world are:

• Getting specific vaccinations in specific timeframes.
• Specific blood tests or preventative treatments (such as tapeworm).
• Getting a clear bill of health conducted and signed by an internationally accredited veterinarian.
• Getting a medical certificate from a government organization (for example, the USDA in the States).
• An international microchip.
• Breed restrictions.

Make sure you check the rules of your destination(s).

Additionally, some countries require mandatory quarantines for incoming pets (including dogs). Depending on the country, you may have to pay for their stay in quarantine.

It's crucial that you understand (and comply with) the entry requirements because some countries may put your pet into quarantine or send it back home if you fail to meet the requirements.

Flying with a dog

Flying with a dog presents its own unique challenges. Airlines typically need to see all of the paperwork you've done for your destination(s).

On top of that, the airline itself will likely have its own requirements, usually pertaining to the way your dog is traveling (in-cabin vs. cargo).

Larger dogs may be required to be stowed in cargo and there may be specific rules when it comes to their carriers. Smaller dogs may be able to fly in-cabin with you, but there will still be policies around carriers and size.

Most airlines should have this information on their websites, but it can also be helpful to call their customer support to make sure you understand the ins and outs well before you travel.

Rentals and dogs

While abroad, you are likely going to need to rent a place to stay, whether that's a short term rental (like an Airbnb), a hotel, or something else.

Bringing your dog may limit you to the available rentals, which may not be in the area you want to stay in or might be higher in cost.

This may not be an issue for you, but it's something to be aware of when you start looking for where you can stay.

Depending on the city or cities you will be staying in, rentals may be quite different than they are back home. They might be smaller, or there may not be an elevator. There may also not be a dog park nearby.

It's important to look at both the rental options and the local area you're heading to.

Transportation and dogs

In addition to airplanes, you will likely need to travel with your dog just to get around town or to other destinations.

Whatever your plans may be, make sure you know whether or not your pup is allowed on local metros, trains, buses, etc., and whether or not they need a ticket, muzzle, or something else.

If you plan to rent a car, that might be an easier option for you and your pet.

Your dog's health while traveling

You know your dog best - their unique quirks, what they respond to, what they're afraid of, etc.

It's important to really think about whether or not traveling is right for your dog's personality. Are they friendly? Easygoing? Are they anxious or easily frightened?

These are all questions you should answer before taking your pet on such a journey.

You know better than anyone that their health and happiness is of the utmost importance.

New destinations mean new environmental concerns. For example, ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes vary by region, and they can transmit diseases.

Getting the right gear

When traveling, it's important to have the right materials on hand for whatever comes your way. Some things that might come in handy are:

• An airline-approved travel carrier. This is mandatory if flying.
• Portable food and water bowls. Some of them are collapsible, which can help you save on space.
• Travel-sized dog bed or blanket for familiarity. You should bring one that your pet has had in your home; that way, the "scent" of your home is on it.
• Dog-friendly first aid kit. Ask your veterinarian about what types of things should be in a dog first aid kit! At minimum, include your vet's phone number/contact information.
• Travel harness, muzzle, and leash. Even if you don't typically use these, they may be required in some places. Because of that, it's a good idea to get your pet comfortable with harnesses and muzzles if you haven't used one before.
• Doggy bags.
• Grooming tools.
• A copy of your dog’s medical records. (Both digital and hard copies.)
• Identification tags with updated contact information.
• Familiar toys/comfort items.
• Enough food for the travel days and the first few days at your new destination.
• A GPS collar isn't a requirement, but it could give you some additional peace of mind.