May 26, 2025
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.
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..
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:
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.
Many countries require your dog to have a microchip for identification before entry. It’s an essential step for international travel.
Some destinations impose quarantine periods to protect local animal health. The length and conditions vary by country and your dog’s vaccination status.
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.
Vaccinations and health treatments must be completed within certain periods before your trip. Make sure you adhere exactly to the destination's schedule.
Tip: Call the airline directly to confirm international pet travel laws. Websites may not always show recent updates.
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.
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:
Also decide between in-cabin vs. cargo travel:
Note: If your dog has breathing issues (e.g., pugs, bulldogs), avoid cargo travel altogether. Many airlines restrict brachycephalic breeds due to safety risks.
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.
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.
Flying your dog abroad involves a lot of paperwork. Here’s an international pet travel checklistto keep handy:
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.
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.
Different airlines may have slightly different dog travel crate requirements. Always confirm beforehand.
By the time your dog flies, the crate should feel like their own space.
Your dog’s belongings are equally valuable. So make sure you’re not missing anything essential.
Pack smart, but don’t overstuff the crate. Loose items are a choking hazard during turbulence.
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.
Most pet parents are concerned about how to calm your dog on a flight.
Here are some ways:
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.
Landing in a new country can be disorienting. Not just for you, but for your dog as well.
Recovery might take a few hours to some days. Be patient, especially if there was a long flight or multiple time zones involved.
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:
Pet relocation services are ideal for:
These services do cost extra but offer peace of mind. You’ll have experts handling the process end-to-end.
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:
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.
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.
One missing paper or an expired certificate can stop everything. Check, recheck, and make a simple checklist to stay on top of it all.
Many countries require your dog to be microchipped before travel. And if you skip it, entry could be denied on arrival.
Avoid booking flights during peak summer or winter. Cargo areas can get too hot or cold, putting your dog at risk.
Each country has its own import laws. Don’t rely on past experiences. Always research your specific destination.
Some dogs are easily stressed or anxious. Consider this when choosing crate type, flight length, or whether to fly at all.
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!
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
The biggest concern for any pet parent while tr...
What does a perfect dog bowl look like? A meal...
Flying with your pet to Europe is a dream come...