Traveling With Pets: International

International travel with pets is totally doable—it just takes some planning, paperwork, and more than a few deep breaths. Every country has its own entry requirements but don’t worry—while it may feel like preparing your dog for customs and immigration is wildly overwhelming, help is out there.

Get started early, expect to handle the following for nearly any international trip with your pet:

• ISO-compliant microchip

• Rabies vaccination (sometimes also a Rabies Antibody Titer Test – FAVN)

• Health certificate (usually issued within 7–10 days of travel)

• Import permit (depending on the destination)

  
  

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is your go-to resource. Their website has everything you need for:

• Traveling from the U.S. to another country

• Bringing your pet into the U.S. from abroad

• Finding a USDA-accredited vet

  
  

Working with a USDA-accredited veterinarian is critical—they’re the only ones authorized to issue international health certificates for pets leaving the U.S.

Also note, some countries require pets to quarantine upon arrival—especially those with strict biosecurity laws like New Zealand. This can mean anything from a few days to several weeks in a government-approved facility, so it’s important to plan ahead. Don’t worry—we can help you navigate those rules, too.

Pro Tip: A little good news... some places, like the EU, offer pet passports that make future trips easier. If you're a frequent traveler or a part-time expat, this can be a game-changer for hopping borders with less hassle.

International pet travel is complicated—so much so that there’s an entire cottage industry built around helping people navigate it. From paperwork to quarantine rules to airline requirements, there’s a lot to manage. Luckily, you're not alone. Your USDA-accredited (APHIS) vet is a key resource, and organizations like the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) can connect you with trusted professionals who specialize in getting pets safely and legally across borders. And of course, we’re here to help as well.

U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

International Pet and Animal Transportation Association

Final Thought

International pet travel can feel daunting, but with the right prep and a little help from qualified professionals, it can be a smooth, successful, and even fun experience—for both of you and your fur baby.

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