May 26, 2025

How to Prepare Your Dog for an International Flight

dog

Flying internationally with your dog isn’t just another trip. It's a challenging procedure emotionally and logistically. Your dog isn’t a mere cargo. They’re family. And when it comes to moving countries, their safety, comfort, and following regulations must come first.

Whether you’re relocating permanently or taking a long trip, preparing your dog for international travel takes time and strategy. From crate training and health certificates to understanding airline policies and post-flight care; there’s a lot to manage.

This guide simplifies it all. Let’s break down how to prepare your dog for an international flight. So you can fly stress-free and ensure your furry friend does too.

Travelling Abroad With Your Dog? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Whether it is your first time or you’ve done it before, early planning is crucial to avoid last-minute hassles and stress. For both you and your dog. From regulations to vet visits and packing to post flight care, here is everything you need to know..

1. Understand Airline and Country Pet Travel Regulations

Every airline has its own dog travel policy. So does every country. What’s accepted in Singapore may not work for Australia. And the rules for dogs flying from India to Europe won’t be the same as for the US or UAE.

You should always check for international pet travel laws like: 

Whether Dogs Are Allowed In-Cabin or Only In Cargo

Different airlines and countries have varying rules on where your dog can travel. Small dogs often fly in-cabin, while larger ones must go in the cargo hold.

Mandatory Microchipping

Many countries require your dog to have a microchip for identification before entry. It’s an essential step for international travel.

Quarantine on Arrival

Some destinations impose quarantine periods to protect local animal health. The length and conditions vary by country and your dog’s vaccination status.

Rabies Titre Tests (Especially for EU Countries)

European countries usually require a blood test to confirm your dog’s immunity to rabies. This test must be done within a specific time frame before travel.

Timeframes for Vaccinations and Treatments

Vaccinations and health treatments must be completed within certain periods before your trip. Make sure you adhere exactly to the destination's schedule.

Always Cross-Check:

  • Airline Pet Policy (Before You Book the Ticket)
    Check the airline’s rules on pet travel before making your booking.
  • Destination Country’s Import Laws
    Verify the pet import requirements for the country you’re travelling to.
  • Any Transit Country Rules If You’re Stopping Over
    If your flight has layovers, check the pet regulations for those countries as well.

Tip: Call the airline directly to confirm international pet travel laws. Websites may not always show recent updates.

2. Choose a Pet-Friendly Flight

Picking the right airline is very important for your dog’s safety and comfort. Some airlines are known for taking good care of pets on long flights. Others may not have proper temperature control in the cargo area or may limit pets on some routes, which can be risky.

Best airlines for flying dogs internationally:

Lufthansa is a fantastic choice because they treat pets like royalty. If your dog weighs less than 8 kg, they can travel in the cabin. Larger pups, however, are transported in climate-controlled cargo with safety. They're ideal for flying to Europe, the United States, or Canada.

Emirates doesn’t allow pets in-cabin, but their SkyCargo VIP service is top-tier. Your dog gets a comfy, temperature-controlled journey. This one is especially great for trips to the UAE, UK, or Australia (just watch out for quarantine rules).

Qatar Airways is another solid pick. Although there are no in-cabin pets. But their QR Live cargo program is super reliable, with careful handling and priority unloading. Suitable for taking long trips to Europe or the United States.

Air France/KLM is super pet-friendly, letting small dogs fly in-cabin (under 8kg) and offering safe cargo options for larger ones. They’re a great bet for Europe or the US, with smooth connections.

Singapore Airlines has strict but super-safe cargo policies—no in-cabin pets. But their professional animal transport is perfect for Australia, Japan, or the UK (though quarantine can be tricky).

Etihad’s Abu Dhabi animal facility is top-notch for cargo travel, especially to the UAE, Europe, or the US.

British Airways collaborates with PetAir UK for cargo transportation.They don’t have an in-cabin pets policy. Nevertheless, it’s the safest way to get your dog to the UK (just be ready for possible quarantine).

What to look for:

  • Non-stop flights (fewer transfers, less stress)
  • Pet-friendly crew and ground handling
  • Cargo hold with temperature and pressure regulation

Also decide between in-cabin vs. cargo travel:

  • Small dogs (under 7–8 kg including carrier) may fly in-cabin
  • Large dogs must travel in the cargo hold

Note: If your dog has breathing issues (e.g., pugs, bulldogs), avoid cargo travel altogether. Many airlines restrict brachycephalic breeds due to safety risks.

3. Visit the Vet: Health Check and Documentation

Make a veterinarian visit at least 30 days prior to your scheduled flight. You can even book earlier if possible. Some destinations require vet clearance even 60–90 days prior.

Your vet will help you:

  • Do a full physical exam
  • Update all vaccinations (especially rabies)
  • Administer parasite treatments (internal & external)
  • Insert or scan a microchip (ISO 11784/11785 standard)
  • Issue a dog travel health certificate
  • Guide you on country-specific documentation

For travel to Europe, Australia, or New Zealand, you may also need a Rabies Antibody Titre Test. And this must be done 3+ months in advance. 

Once you have got all vaccinations for dog travel, keep originals and copies of all documents. Some airports require physical copies during check-in and customs clearance.

4. Prepare Your Dog’s Travel Documents

Flying your dog abroad involves a lot of paperwork. Here’s an international pet travel checklist
to keep handy:

International Pet Travel Checklist:

  • Pet passport (if your destination issues/accepts it)
  • Dog travel health certificate (endorsed by a government vet if required)
  • Vaccination record (updated, with dates and batch numbers)
  • Microchip certificate
  • Rabies titre test (if applicable)
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from AQCS (Animal Quarantine and Certification Services in India)
  • Import/export permit (country-dependent)
  • Owner ID and address proof
  • Flight ticket copy mentioning pet booking

These documents aren’t optional. Even one missing paper can stop your dog from boarding or entering the destination country. And if this feels like too much to handle, you can hire a pet travel broker or pet relocation agency. They’ll guide you through everything and often have pre-set templates and connections with airport officials.

5. Crate Training: Start Early, Go Slow

Dogs don’t love crates naturally. But for flight safety, they need to be in one for several hours. Or maybe even more than a day. That's why you should start crate training for dog flight at least 4 weeks in advance. Additionally, you have to make sure that your dog feels calm and not punished when put in a crate.  

IATA-Approved Crate Requirements:

  • Hard plastic or metal build
  • Secure, non-slip floor (no wheels)
  • Ample ventilation on 3 sides minimum
  • Lockable door with metal fasteners (no zippers)
  • Room for your dog to easily stand, turn and lie comfortably
  • Attached water bowl and food container
  • Absorbent mat or bedding inside

Different airlines may have slightly different dog travel crate requirements. Always confirm beforehand.

Crate Training Tips:

  • At home, put the crate in a common space
  • Feed your dog inside it
  • Keep toys and blankets in the crate
  • Practice closing the door gradually

By the time your dog flies, the crate should feel like their own space.

6. Pack Smart: Travel Essentials for Your Dog

Your dog’s belongings are equally valuable. So make sure you’re not missing anything essential.

Packing List:

  • Airline-approved crate
  • Collar, leash, and harness
  • Calming treats or vet-prescribed meds (if applicable)
  • Portable water bottle and collapsible bowl
  • Your dog’s favourite toy or blanket (smell = comfort)
  • Food for the journey and one day extra
  • Wet wipes, poop bags, cleaning cloth
  • All travel documents (original and backup)
  • Extra tags with updated contact information

Pack smart, but don’t overstuff the crate. Loose items are a choking hazard during turbulence.

7. Day of the Flight: Stay Calm and Ready

Travel day can be hectic and you might feel anxious. But staying calm will help your dog feel relaxed too. Start the day with a long walk to burn off extra energy. 

Feed your dog a small, light meal at least six hours before the flight. However, don’t feed too close to departure, as flying on a full stomach can cause discomfort. Give your dog water, but avoid too much, especially just before the journey.

Before leaving, do a final check of the travel crate. Make sure it has soft bedding, attached food and water bowls, and proper labels. Along with the location's address and contact info, the crate ought to have your dog's name.

Also add “LIVE ANIMAL” and “THIS WAY UP” stickers. Reach the airport at least 3 to 4 hours early, as international pet check-ins usually take longer than normal boarding.

8.  Tips for Keeping Your Dog Calm During the Flight

Most pet parents are concerned about how to calm your dog on a flight.

Here are some ways: 

  • Familiar smells: Keep your dog’s blanket or toy inside the crate
  • Pheromone sprays (like Adaptil): Can help reduce anxiety
  • Classical music (for training or transit car rides)
  • Vet-prescribed anti-anxiety medication (use only if needed and always test before flight day)

Avoid sedatives unless specifically approved by a vet. Some medications may lower your dog’s heart rate or affect breathing during flight. Your presence and prior crate training play a huge role in keeping your dog calm.

9. Landing and Post-Flight Recovery

Landing in a new country can be disorienting. Not just for you, but for your dog as well.

At the airport:

  • Customs may scan the microchip and check all papers
  • Some countries have on-arrival vet checks
  • Quarantine may be required. So plan ahead and know the duration

After Reaching Home:

  • Offer small amounts of water and food
  • Let your dog rest in a quiet and familiar-like space
  • Avoid stimulating environments for the first few hours
  • Monitor for signs of stress: whining, drooling, hiding, or refusal to eat

Recovery might take a few hours to some days. Be patient, especially if there was a long flight or multiple time zones involved.

10. When to Use Pet Relocation Services

Not everyone has the time or energy to manage the full travel process for their dog. And that’s okay. If you're confused about paperwork or worried about doing something wrong, a pet courier for international travel can really help. 

They can help with:

  • Paperwork and vet documentation
  • Crate procurement and measurements
  • Coordination with airline cargo departments
  • Quarantine clearances and customs at the destination
  • Door-to-door pickup and drop-off in some countries

Pet relocation services are ideal for:

  • First-time pet travellers
  • Complex destinations (UK, Australia, New Zealand)
  • Pets with health conditions or special needs
  • Solo shipping (your pet flying without you)

These services do cost extra but offer peace of mind. You’ll have experts handling the process end-to-end.

11. Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to overlook small things when you’re planning a big move with your dog. But these common slip-ups can lead to stress, delays, or even cancelled travel. Here’s what to watch out for:

Booking at the Last Minute Without Checking Pet Policies

Not all flights or airlines allow pets. And sometimes they might have limits you didn’t expect. Always confirm the rules before you book. It saves a lot of last-minute panic.

Using the Wrong Crate or the Wrong Size

A crate that’s too small or not airline-approved won’t just be uncomfortable for your dog. It could be rejected at the airport. When you are choosing a crate, see to it that your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down with ease.

Missing Documents or Outdated Health Certificates

One missing paper or an expired certificate can stop everything. Check, recheck, and make a simple checklist to stay on top of it all.

Not microchipping your dog

Many countries require your dog to be microchipped before travel. And if you skip it, entry could be denied on arrival.

Flying during extreme weather

Avoid booking flights during peak summer or winter. Cargo areas can get too hot or cold, putting your dog at risk.

Assuming rules are the same everywhere

Each country has its own import laws. Don’t rely on past experiences. Always research your specific destination.

Overlooking your dog’s personality and stress levels

Some dogs are easily stressed or anxious. Consider this when choosing crate type, flight length, or whether to fly at all.

Final Verdict

Preparing your dog for an international flight takes careful planning and attention to detail. Remember to check airline and country rules early. Make sure you choose a pet-friendly flight and visit your vet well in advance. 

Further, prepare all documents and the right crate. Don’t forget to pack your dog’s essentials and keep them calm on travel day. Avoid common mistakes like last-minute bookings or missing paperwork to ensure a smooth journey.

Starting early gives you the best chance to handle everything without stress. It also keeps your dog safe and comfortable throughout the trip.

To make your preparation even easier, contact a pet relocation expert at Remediovet for professional support. Because traveling with your dog can be a great experience when you’re well prepared!

FAQs About Flying With Dogs Internationally

Q: What documents do I need to fly internationally with my dog?
You will require import credentials, a microchip certificate, a current vaccination record, and a dog travel health certificate. Additionally, certain countries require a pet passport and rabies titre test.

Q: How much does it cost to fly a dog internationally?
Costs vary depending on the destination, crate size, and airline. Cargo transport from India starts from ₹30,000, but it depends upon many factors. Relocating pets can cost anything from ₹25,000 to ₹80,000 or more, depending on how complicated it is.

Q: Can I take my dog in the cabin on an international flight?
On some airlines, only tiny dogs (typically under 8 kilograms with a crate) are allowed in the cabin. Dogs of a larger size are transported in cargo holds.

Q: What is the safest way to fly a dog internationally?

Consider a direct trip, use an IATA-approved crate, meticulously organize all documentation, and pre-crate-train your dog. Think about hiring a pet relocation specialist for further precaution.

Tags Pet Relocation

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