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Planes, Trains and Automobiles: How to Travel with Pets
September 29, 2015, 8:26 am
If you’ve ever thought about traveling with pets then you’ll probably have found that it isn’t quite as straightforward as packing them into whatever mode of transport you have and heading out. This can take a little bit of planning, some organisation and, most importantly, knowing exactly what you need to do.
How to Travel with Pets
First things first? Where are you going and how are you travelling there? We’ve broken up this guide into several categories to make it as easy as possible for you to know everything there is to know about your situation.
Travelling with Pets Across the Country
There are no legal requirements to meet if you are not leaving the country with your pet. However, this can be equally tricky as you may be spending a lot of time travelling which will require frequent breaks.
If you are transporting your pets by car, make sure that:
- They have plenty of water
- Are comfortable and wouldn’t injure themselves if you stop quickly
- Take regular breaks
- Ensure your pet is regularly fed
- Exercise your pet – keep cats inside the car and walk dogs on a lead
Taking your animal on a train is another option available to you. Most pets are allowed on trains, however if they are casing inconvenience due to size or behaviour then you may be removed from the train. The basic rules for train travel with pets are:
- Pets can travel free with any paying passenger
- Dogs must be kept on a lead
- Small dogs, cats, birds and small animals must be carried in a cage or pet carrier
- Animals must not occupy seats – if this happens a charge can occur
- Only assistance dogs may enter restaurant cars
How to Travel with Pets Internationally
If you’re planning on going abroad, either to live or on holiday, then you will need a pet passport for your dog, cat or ferret. When travelling within the EU this will be the only documentation you are required to have.
Travel outside the EU will require an official veterinary certificate and you will also need to fill in a declaration that confirms you are not going to sell or transfer the ownership of your pet.
You don’t have to worry about renewing a pet passport, it will stay valid for the duration of which you meet the entry requirement and only needs to be replaced until all the treatment spaces are full.
Flying with Pets
You’re almost certainly going to be flying if you’re travelling internationally, so what do you need to know about taking your pet on a plane?
Most airlines have rules regarding taking animals on planes – many requiring the use of a pet travel agent to help reduce the amount of complications. This can be a rather expensive business, but it is often needed and there are very few alternatives.
It is worth noting that these rules differ between airlines and even flights. For example, British Airways allows you to travel anywhere with a registered assistance dog in the cabin, but all other pets must travel in the hold as cargo. However, on their OpenSkies service between Paris and New York pets can travel in economy and premium economy if they weigh less than 6kg/13.2lb.
Always check what the airline’s rules are for transporting pets before booking your own tickets or assuming you can take your pet on board with you.
If you’re moving abroad with your pet and need to sell your car quickly then talk to Cashpoint4Cars today. We buy any car and provide you with the money on the very same day – this can be hugely beneficial if you incur a large charge to fly with your pet.
