Are you expecting to travel for fun or business?
With a little preparation your pet can become an expert world
traveller and enjoy the experience with you.

Transportation

Is Your Pet Allowed?

If you are using a public form of transportation you must first determine if pets are allowed. Although many airlines accommodate pet travel, some forms of land and water travel, such as trains and cruise ships, do not. Before booking your trip, be sure to ask about their specific policies when it comes to pets.

Keeping Your Pet Safe en Route

Traveling may be exciting for you, but it can be frightening and even dangerous for your pet. Ensure they enjoy the trip as much as possible by providing a safe and comfortable way to travel.

Keeping in mind the requirements of your specific form of travel, the first step is to purchase a pet transporter. Transporters are available in a wide variety of styles and sizes to suit the needs of many different animals. If your pet will be traveling in a cargo hold, be sure to choose a sturdy, hard-shelled carrier that provides just enough room for your pet to stand up and turn around.

If you will be carrying your pet with you on the trip then you need to consider your own comfort, as well as theirs. Carrier options include shoulder straps, backpack forms, and wheels. If possible, try the carrier out by either toting or pulling it around the store for a short time.

Finally, the day of travel you will want a relaxed and happy animal in that carrier. In the days and weeks leading up to the trip, make slow adjustments to your pet's routine so that on the day of travel

• Your pet will be healthy and have had all necessary treatments recommended by your vet.
• Your pet will have eaten several hours before entering their carrier. This may mean adjusting their routine so they will eat after your arrival, rather than before. Not only can a full stomach contribute to motion sickness, it can also cause your pet to soil their carrier.
• Your pet will not have a full bladder during travel. Provide your pet with a drink a few hours before they are put in their carrier and ensure that they are well hydrated by adding extra water to their regular food in the days leading up to the trip.
• Your pet will be well exercised. A long play session or walk the day before traveling will help you and your pet deal with the long hours sitting still.

Traveling Internationally

Some countries place restrictions on pets that can be brought directly into the country. These restrictions can include required health standards and vaccinations, or even a period of quarantine. Every country's requirements are different and they are constantly updated to reflect new animal health threats and policies. You can find current information through your travel agent or the destination country's embassy website.

Returning to the UK

It is not just upon arrival that your pet is subject to travel regulations; returning home to the UK has its own policies and standards as well. Depending on where you have traveled and the length of your stay your pet may face quarantine upon return home as well. Click here for up-to-date government information.

Quarantine Every country differs in their quarantine policies, and more information can be found on your destination country's embassy website. In the UK, pet owners have the option of selecting a quarantine site from a number of privately owned facilities. This allows owners to choose a site that is close by and comfortable for their animal.

Pet Insurance

Before making any travel plans for your pet speak with your insurance provider.

• If your pet needs emergency care will you be covered?
• Are there any special documents required?
• Do they have any additional information to help you travel safely with your pet?

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