Taking your pet dog, cat or ferret abroad (2024)

FAQs

Can ferrets fly internationally? ›

Ferrets fall into the same category as dogs and cats so can easily be transported by most major airlines. At PBS Pet Travel we only ever allow ferrets to travel on animal-friendly airlines as many of them have special schemes put in place to ensure your ferret is as calm as possible during their flight.

Depending on which country you're going to, if your cat travels abroad they may need a short period of quarantine. Even if you know they are healthy, it's a legal requirement in many places – so factor this in to your trip! When you arrive at your accommodation, your cat will appreciate plenty of time to settle in.

Many pets will find the change in routine, environment and travelling stressful, so you'll need to decide what's best for them. If you're thinking about taking your dog on holiday, make sure you plan before you book.

Pet owners should also consider the possibility of emergency situations while overseas that could require rapid departure or shipping of a pet. Take time to think about the resources your pet(s) might need and consider options for sheltering them in-country as well as making plans for departure on short notice.

Total Cost ($335–$1,000)

The total cost of flying with your dog internationally will usually run between $335 and $1,000, depending on the airline and the destination. This cost includes everything that you need to fly with your dog, including the trip fee, the health certificate, and the proper crate.

Many airlines allow pets to fly in the cabin as a carry-on, so long as they stay inside a carrier that's small enough to fit under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight. Southwest, Alaska, United, American, Delta, Hawaiian, Spirit, and Frontier are some of the airlines that allow pets as carry-ons.

Because flying is so stressful for cats, we recommend taking another option if possible. Driving is generally superior to flying, there may be boarding options available that can let your cat relax comfortably at a home away from home.

The pet needs to be in a soft, ventilated bag or kennel not exceeding 46 cm/ 18 in x 46 cm/ 18 in x 30 cm/ 12 in. As per DGCA guidelines, we allow only two pets in the cabin per flight. Additionally, each pet must be accompanied by a passenger.

It is natural and normal for your pet to relieve themselves in the crate during the flight. Make sure you line the crate with an absorbent mat or puppy pads to soak up the urine. All Petraveller crates are lined with super absorbent and washable Petraveller Sky Beds to ensure your pet's flight is comfortable.

What does a pet passport look like? ›

Appearance. The pet passport itself comes in multiple forms, sometimes a pink A4 sheet, sometimes a small blue booklet.

Pets are treated as a priority and should be put on last and taken off first. In the case of the long-haul flights with transfers the pets are checked at any refuel/transfer points and their water bowls are replenished.

Most of the time, cats travel quite well, without needing medication. Some cats, on the other hand, experience tremendous stress when subjected to air travel. Consult your veterinarian to create the best travel plan for your cat if she does not travel well.

When flying with a cat, it's important to get your cat comfortable with a carrier before the flight. You should also pack a harness, training pads, a water dish, and cat food. You can try natural calming aids like pheromones or prescription sedatives for the flight.

Flying internationally with your cat can be more complex and require more planning. Some airlines, like Southwest, don't let pets fly on international flights. If your cat is allowed, you might need an international health certificate, and you must comply with the requirements of your destination country.

With a passport, an owner can travel with their pet to other EU countries and return to the UK, for example on a holiday. A passport may also be accepted for travel to some non-EU countries, however many require different or additional documentation. Pet passports can only be issued to domestic dogs, cats and ferrets.

Having an animal in a carrier with lots of padding is important. Even having the carrier sideways will help, so they are not ejected forward toward the grill. Have enough carriers so there are no more than three ferrets in each. For long trips, set up a wire cage with hammocks so they ferrets can see out the windows.

Depending on the requirements of your destination country, your pet may need additional vaccinations or treatments administered within a certain time frame and a 15-digit ISO compliant microchip. You may also need import permits or pre-travel approval.

Where Are Ferrets Illegal. There are two states where ferrets are completely illegal: California and Hawaii. That means they are legal in the remaining 48 states, but local laws (depending on city or county) can choose to follow their state guidelines or provide a stricter law.