How to Prepare Your Dog or Cat for International Travel

Start by identifying the rules for your pet’s exact journey. A single global checklist cannot tell you whether a rabies blood test, import permit or quarantine applies. Those decisions depend on species, origin, residence history, transit and destination.

1. Establish eligibility before booking

• Record the pet’s species, breed, date of birth, microchip number and countries visited or lived in.
• Check destination breed restrictions and minimum age.
• Describe the whole itinerary, including fuel stops, transit and any return trip.
• Confirm whether the movement is personal travel, a relocation without the owner, or a transfer of ownership.

2. Build the veterinary timeline backwards

Ask a veterinarian experienced in the exporting country’s certification process to identify the required tests, vaccinations, treatments and endorsements. Some routes take many months; others do not require those long lead times. Have the microchip scanned and the number checked against every record. The acceptable identification standard must come from the destination guidance, not a blanket assumption that every existing chip is invalid unless it has 15 digits.

3. Use the destination guide

Australia · New Zealand · Great Britain · UAE · Singapore · USA: CDC dog entry requirements. For the USA, distinguish dogs from cats and check state, USDA and operator requirements separately.

4. Prepare for the actual flight

Use IATA’s pet travel guidance and the operating airline’s instructions. Introduce the approved carrier gradually with short, positive practice sessions. Confirm the crate or harness requirements for the particular flight and each stage; do not assume all SKYE PETS services have the same cabin arrangement. Ask the vet about food, water, medication and any health concerns.

5. Plan the first day after arrival

Know who handles inspection and clearance, whether quarantine is required, where the pet can be collected and whether the onward vehicle and accommodation accept the pet. Keep the current flight instructions, original documents where required, and backup copies together.

Reviewed 7 September 2026. This guide explains the main planning decisions; the applicable government conditions, permit and flight-specific instructions determine the documents and arrangements for your pet. Recheck them before booking and before departure.

Discuss your route with SKYE PETS. Include your departure country, destination, intended dates, species, breed, age, weight and recent travel history so we can assess the journey and current flight options.