Whether you're planning a European holiday or longer-term stay, Europe is an ideal destination for both you and your dog. Indeed, Europe remains one of the most dog-friendly continents in the world, offering you and your furry companion a flurry of countless fun activities to do and remember together.
But before flying to Europe with your dog, it’s important to familiarize yourself with European entry requirements as well as a number of ways to prepare your best friend for air travel. After all, air travel can be stressful for humans and dogs alike – as the old adage goes, it’s better to be prepared than to be surprised.
With Mikojet by your side, however, exploring uncharted territory with your dog is simpler than ever. From pet paperwork to arranging pre-customs clearance to ensuring that you dog is ready for the experience of air travel, we are here to streamline your dog’s flight to Europe. This guide will equip you with everything you need to know before flying with your dog in cabin to Europe, including day-of travel tips to make your four-legged friend’s flight experience seamless, comfortable, and memorable.
European Entry Requirements for your Dog
Before flying with your dog to Europe, there are a number of requirements every pet parent should be aware of. When flying from one European country to another, every dog needs a valid European pet passport. Dogs must have been microchipped and been vaccinated against rabies before entering Europe. Additionally, dogs must also undergo treatment against tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis – only if your destination is free from this type of tapeworm.
Entry requirements when flying with your dog from North America, including Canada and the United States, are slightly different. When travelling from the United States and Canada, a veterinary health certificate must be filled out and endorsed by a veterinarian of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and the USDA respectively. As is the case when flying from within Europe, your dog must also meet their microchip and rabies vaccination requirements.
However, it is important to note that every country in the EU has their own entry requirements when flying with a dog in cabin. As a result, be sure to contact your airline well ahead of time and ensure that all your paperwork is up to date.
Preparing your Dog for Air Travel to Europe
Before flying with your dog to Europe, every pet parent must complete a checklist, essentially ensuring that your canine companion is best prepared for air travel. From one final veterinary check to smart packing, Mikojet has you covered for seamless dog travel.
Visit your veterinarian and update records
When flying with your dog in cabin to Europe, it is crucial that you schedule a final visit with your veterinarian and update your vaccination records. To enter the EU with a dog, keep in mind that your canine companion must have been vaccinated against rabies, as well as tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis. Additionally, they must be microchipped or have a clearly readable tattoo.
Indeed, a visit to your veterinarian will guarantee that all your pet paperwork is in order, ensuring your dog’s seamless entry into the EU. Your veterinarian can also inform you of a range of calming and soothing techniques important for air travel with your dog.
Go for a long walk before flying with your dog
Before taking off to the airport, be sure to go for a long walk with your dog, burning excess energy. A tired dog ultimately makes for a pro travel companion, reducing their stress and anxiety levels.
Additionally, once checked in for your flight, it is also recommended to familiarize your dog with the hustle and bustle of the airport environment, as well as the many pet-friendly relief areas, going for one final walk. Keeping your dog active before your flight is one of the most effective ways of calming them down, however, it is equally important not to over-exhaust your dog.
Familiarize yourself with Entry Requirements
Entry requirements will determine whether or not your dog can join you on your trip to Europe. Put simply, if your dog fails to meet the EU’s entry requirements, they will be refused upon arrival, or will not be allowed to board the plane. As a result, before flying with your dog in cabin to Europe, be sure to understand all of the EU’s entry requirements.
In many ways, it is not as straightforward as flying to the USA with your dog , where the only requirement is a “Fit-to-Fly” letter from your veterinarian. Instead, you have to make sure your dog meets the following checklist:
● been microchipped, or have a clearly readable tattoo
● been vaccinated against rabies
● had treatment against the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis, where your destination area is free from this tapeworm
● a valid European pet passport, when travelling from an EU country
Pack your dog’s favourite snacks and toys
Before flying with your dog to Europe, compile a checklist of all their favourite snacks and toys, ensuring they have everything they need for a comfortable flight and stay in the EU. However, keep in mind that certain toys are prohibited in cabin, particularly if they make noise. As a result, be sure to contact your airline before flying with your dog in cabin to eliminate any potential problems.
Additionally, pet parents must also be wary of their dog’s food and water intake when flying. While you can give your furry companion treats to reward and encourage good behaviour, it is still important to not overfeed your pet. This can ultimately lead to unexpected bathroom breaks and in some instances, dehydration depending on the treats.
Flying with your Dog to Europe: Travel Day Tips
You may think you’re ready to fly to Europe with your dog, but what exactly will that look like on your departure date? From an early airport arrival to having a positive attitude, here are three dog travel tips for success when navigating the skies with your furry friend.
Early Airport Arrival
An early airport arrival is important when flying to Europe, let alone with a dog. Pet parents encounter extended check-in times and security procedures when flying with a dog that can cause delays. Arriving early ultimately helps you navigate busy airport environments without having to rush and potentially stress your canine companion.
Early arrival also gives you ample time to address any last-minute travel changes or requirements, such as pet relief areas or documentation checks. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for your dog to get accustomed to the busy airport environment, take a walk, and relax before boarding.
Get to Know Pet Relief Areas
Understanding the location and features of pet relief areas at airports is essential when flying to Europe with your dog. These designated zones offer a space for your dog to relieve themselves, ensuring comfort during long travel hours. As a result, it is crucial that you familiarize yourself with the airport map beforehand to locate these areas quickly upon arrival.
Most pet relief areas are equipped with waste disposal bags, fresh water, and a secure, clean environment for your pet, where they can socialize with other dogs. In certain cases, these pet-friendly areas feature artificial grass or real plants to mimic a natural setting. Knowing these spots eases stress, as it allows for timely breaks, keeping your dog relaxed and happy throughout the air travel journey.
Stay Calm and Positive
Maintaining a calm and positive attitude is crucially important when flying with your dog to Europe. Dogs are intuitive by nature and can pick up on their owner’s emotions, so a relaxed demeanor helps keep them at ease. When they are showing signs of stress and anxiety, be sure to speak to them in a soothing voice and offer gentle reassurance.
Remember to stay patient and offer praise for good behaviour, reinforcing a sense of security. This approach not only reduces stress for your dog but also makes the overall air travel experience more enjoyable and manageable for the both of you.
Flying with your Dog to Europe
Flying to Europe with your dog makes for an exhilarating experience, full of potential and once-in-a-lifetime sightseeing opportunities. After all, few things can compare to a trip to Europe with your best friend by your side.
Whether you are visiting London, Milan, Barcelona, or heading to fashion week in Paris, travelling with your dog can transform a regular trip into an unforgettable experience. Before flying with your dog, however, pet parents have a number of considerations to make, including European entry requirements, air travel tips, and much more, but Mikojet is here to assist.
We hope we answered all your questions about flying with your dog to Europe, but in case we didn’t, be sure to get in touch with Mikojet. From getting your pet paperwork in order to arranging pre customs clearance for you and your best friend, we are the dog travel experts and are here to help.
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