I think we all know now that whatever holidays we had planned are going to have to be put on hold for a while... But, being the eternal optimist that I am, I live in the hope that we will see warm countries again. That being said, who would you bring? Your family, of course, but isn’t your cat or dog part of that family? For anyone that doesn’t know, it is possible (and a super idea) to bring your pet on holidays. Why wouldn’t you want them to enjoy a warm country with you!
However, before you start packing your dog’s suitcase, there are some important things you need and other things that you need to remember; the first of which being a pet passport. Outwardly, it’s a simple set of rules that qualify your pet as “fit to travel”. Inwardly, it is the gatekeeper; a list of requirements that your pet will have to complete before they can travel with you.
How do you get a pet passport, I hear you ask? It’s not an actual thing, per se, although there can be some paperwork involved. The first thing you’ll need to do is check the pet travel rules of the Airline you plan on flying with. Now would also be a good time to travel and crate train your pet. Once you're sure that your pet is able for the journey and that they’re allowed to fly, you’re onto a winner! This’ll be the decider on whether your pet can ultimately travel with you or not. Next, it can be worth checking if the hotel or accommodation you’ll be staying in allows pets. If it does? Bingo, you’re getting there! Once that’s done, you’ll also want to check the country of your destination and what rules they have on pets crossing their borders. In Europe, it can be a very causal affair!
If you’ve gotten this far then you’re already halfway... Through the requirements, not to the warm poolside, unfortunately.
Once you’re sure your pet is allowed to travel, the next thing you’ll want to check is what vaccines they’ll need. This is a vital step in the process and cannot be ignored. Most countries usually require your pet to have had a rabies vaccine. Some countries need them to have had a cocktail of anti-baddies. Again, it’s worthwhile checking and researching these points on our own Office of Agriculture’s website and the relevant website of the country that you plan on visiting. You’ll probably need paperwork to attest to your pet having received their vaccines, but this can be acquired from your Vet. And don’t forget, when coming back into Ireland your pet may need another go of vaccines depending on what country they’re coming from!
If this all sounds like a lot, well, that’s because it is! Luckily, we’re skilled in this area. With over twenty years experience in helping pets follow their owners, we can advise, plan and aid you in taking your pet wherever a plane can land!
So, if you are looking to take Moxie along on your next getaway, why don’t you give us a call and reduce the hassle for both you and your furry friend? While not only helping with your “pet passport”, we can have your pet vaccinated and provide you with copies of all relevant paperwork. But, if you plan on flying outside of EU borders, you’ll need to get the official rules from your destination country. Once you have these, we can make a plan together and discuss what’s involved.
Simples!
