Travelling with a dog

Compact checklist for travelling with a dog

Whether it's a longer holiday or a day trip - anyone travelling with a dog will always have a good time. To make travelling safe and stress-free for everyone involved, there are a few things to bear in mind. Here is a compact summary of the most important tips.

Travelling with a dog...

Being well prepared minimises stress for you and your dog:

Check the regulations of the holiday destination: It is important to find out the legal entry requirements of the destination country in advance.
It is also good to know in advance where you are allowed to take dogs, whether a muzzle is compulsory and whether so-called "listed dogs" are allowed to enter the country at all.

...is half the battle

Season: High summer and hot temperatures are a strain for most dogs. The low season of spring or autumn is usually very suitable for holidays with your dog.
Means of transport: The car is the first choice for most people, as it is the most flexible way of travelling and the easiest way of adapting your schedule to suit your dog.

Dog-friendly accommodation

Of course, you also need to find out in advance whether dogs are welcome. Many accommodations have already recognised the signs of the times and have practical and dog-friendly facilities. It is worth finding out in advance whether and what equipment is available. This saves you having to lug around one or two items such as bowls, towels, etc.

Travel checklist for the dog

What your dog needs for travelling! Here's a practical checklist to make sure you don't leave anything at home:

Usual dog food
If necessary: Medication
Treats
Food bowls
Water bowl for travelling
Dog blanket or dog bed
Toys
Transport box
Leash
Collar or harness
Faeces bag
Possibly muzzle (depending on holiday region)
Grooming tools (brush, comb, currycomb,...)
Depending on the holiday destination and planned activities: life jacket, towel Dog packing bag Dog coat or jumper

Documents for the dog abroad

Certain documents must always be carried.

Here is an overview of the most important documents for travelling.

Document	Details
EU pet passport	Dogs require an EU pet passport for all journeys abroad (to EU and non-EU countries) . This can be obtained from your vet. To be able to enter the country, the passport must contain: -valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days old) -microchip number In addition, other vaccinations that may be relevant for the holiday destination are noted in the "blue passport"
Rabies Titer determination	When travelling to some countries from the EU or entering the EU from certain third countries, a rabies titer test may be necessary . This requires a little more planning and lead time. Inform yourself in good time before travelling. You can find more information here
Various vaccinations/deworming	Find out about the vaccination requirements in your holiday destination in good time before you go on holiday. For Great Britain, Ireland & Northern Ireland, Malta, Finland and Norway, tapeworm treatment by a vet including entry in the pet passport is required. Five days to 24 hours before travelling at the latest.
Forms	In certain countries or for special circumstances, certain forms are required in addition to the EU pet passport, e.g. for animals under 12 weeks of age or with a rabies vaccination that is not yet valid. You can find more information HERE
Insurance	It makes sense to carry the insurance documents with you, as you can react quickly in the event of damage.