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Traveling with a pet takes early planning. Confirm your airline’s pet policy and carrier limits, reserve your pet’s spot when you book your seat, and start international paperwork months ahead, since most countries require a microchip, rabies vaccination, and a USDA-endorsed health certificate. Dogs entering the US must also meet CDC import rules, including submitting the CDC Dog Import Form.
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- In-cabin pets
- Small pets in an under-seat carrier; rules vary
- EU entry
- Microchip, rabies vaccine, endorsed certificate
- US dog entry
- CDC Dog Import Form; at least 6 months old
- Start paperwork
- Months before international travel
Can your pet fly in the cabin?
Most US airlines let small dogs and cats fly in the cabin in a soft carrier that fits under the seat in front of you, for a fee. Airlines limit the number of pets per flight, so reserve your pet’s place when you book. Some airlines restrict pets in premium cabins with lie-flat seats or on certain routes.
Larger pets that can’t fly in the cabin face more limited options, and many airlines restrict snub-nosed breeds from cargo for health reasons. Since 2021, US airlines are not required to treat emotional support animals as service animals, though trained service dogs are still accommodated with the required DOT forms.
What paperwork does a pet need for international travel?
Each country sets its own rules, and the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) publishes requirements by destination. Start early: some requirements, like waiting periods after vaccination, take weeks or months, so build them into your trip planning timeline.
- Microchip: an ISO-compatible chip, implanted before the rabies vaccination for many destinations
- Rabies vaccination: for the EU, given at least 21 days before travel
- Health certificate: completed by a USDA-accredited vet and endorsed by APHIS, often within days of arrival
- Extra treatments: for example, Great Britain requires tapeworm treatment for dogs shortly before arrival
- Strict destinations: rabies-free places such as Hawaii, Australia, and New Zealand have long lead times or quarantine
What are the rules for bringing a dog back into the US?
Under CDC rules in effect since August 2024, dogs entering the United States must be at least six months old, be microchipped, and arrive with a CDC Dog Import Form receipt. Dogs that have been in countries the CDC considers high-risk for rabies face additional requirements.
Check the CDC’s current rules before you leave, not just before you return, since some steps must be completed before departure.
How do you find truly pet-friendly hotels?
Many luxury hotels welcome pets, but policies vary by weight, number of pets, fees, and where pets may go. Get the policy in writing and ask about areas pets can access, pet sitting, and nearby walking space.
Gigi has written about pet-friendly travel with her own dog, so she understands that the right hotel makes the trip. She can confirm policies and arrange pet-friendly rooms as part of your leisure travel planning.
How do you keep your pet calm on travel day?
Preparation does most of the work. A pet that’s comfortable in its carrier and on a familiar routine copes far better with airports and long days.
- Crate-train for several weeks before the trip
- Visit your vet, and avoid sedatives unless your vet recommends them
- Choose nonstop flights and cooler times of day; our long-haul flight tips help you plan the day
- Pack food, medication, records, and a familiar blanket
- Use ID tags and keep your microchip contact details current
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my dog to Europe?
Do emotional support animals fly free?
How far in advance should I prepare pet travel documents?
What are the CDC rules for dogs entering the US?
Can my pet sit with me in business class?
Official sources
Rules, fees and schedules change — confirm the latest details at the source before you travel.