Archive for the ‘International Travel’ Category
Traveling is exciting. Taking in new sites, discovering interesting people, and making memories are all things a wonderful vacation should be. These expectations shouldn’t change because you need to travel with a service dog.
However, before you book your flight, there are some things you will need to keep in mind when traveling to Europe with a service dog. In this post, we will cover all those important areas to help get you prepared for your dream trip.
EU Animal Travel Requirements Airline Requirements Jurisdiction Specific Requirements General Travel Tips EU Animal Travel RequirementsThe European Union has developed rules to make it easy to travel to and between the EU countries. Your animal can travel with you if it has:
been microchipped (in line with the technical requirements of Annex II of the EU Regulation on the movement of pets) or has a clearly readable tattoo if applied before 3 July 2011 been vaccinated against rabies had treatment against the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis, where your destination area is free from this tapeworm (Finland, Ireland, Malta, Norway, and Northern Ireland) an EU animal health certificate, when traveling from a non-EU country.The EU animal health certificate contains specific information about your animal’s identity, health, and rabies vaccination status.
If you are traveling from a non-EU country like the United States, your pet must have an EU animal health certificate issued by a veterinarian in the country of departure no more than 10 days before arrival.
The certificate is valid for travel between EU countries for 4 months, or until the anti-rabies vaccination expires, whichever comes first.
Airline RequirementsService dogs are allowed on flights as long as you notify the airline in advance and complete any documentation requirements. If you are traveling from the United States, you will need to complete the DOT’s Service Animal Air Transportation Form.
Please note that each airline has its own procedures for accommodating service dogs. You should check to see their latest rules for service dogs well ahead of your planned departure date.
Jurisdiction Specific RequirementsIn most EU countries, it is against the law for service providers to discriminate against those with disabilities; this also includes individuals with service dogs. It’s important to note, however, that service dog rules vary depending on the jurisdiction you are in.
Note that in contrast to the United States, which does not require any documents or certifications for service dogs, many European countries have specific document and training certification requirements.
For example, in France, the law for accessibility requires two documents: 1. a State card (carte mobilité inclusion) that testifies that you have a handicap and 2. a certificate that your dog received proper assistance dog training.
When traveling in Europe with your service dog make sure to not only prepare for the weather conditions but also prepare all the required paperwork ahead of time. General Travel TipsCaring for your service dog when traveling abroad will take some planning. Check out these helpful tips so you and your service dog will be prepared.
Food & SupplementsMake sure your dog’s food is manufacturer-sealed. This will avoid any conflict when boarding the aircraft. Your local pet retailer may have sample packages of your dog’s kibble that will be easier to transport.
If you embark on a more extended trip, you might want to consider ordering your dog’s food and having it delivered to your destination. Many regions will also have pet retailers where you can purchase your dog’s kibble; however, you may want to call or email them to be sure your dog’s brand is carried and in stock.
If your canine needs medications, be sure to keep them in the original bottles with a note from your veterinarian explaining their purpose.
Health TipsNo one wants their pet or Service Dog to become ill, especially when traveling outside their own country. To help keep your canine companion in top shape when in Europe, follow these additional service dog health tips.
Carry a pet first aid kit. Take a pet first aid course or ask your veterinarian for the basics. Even if you may not be able to physically perform the first aid task, you may be able to instruct someone else to do so. Find a veterinarian at your destination point. It may also be handy to drop this person an email introducing yourself, letting them know that you would like to use their services in the case of an emergency. Keep this information in a safe, yet handy place. Set aside “emergency money” just in case your service dog gets ill or injured. Carry a muzzle or head halter. Some places may require this gear. Be sure your dog has been introduced to these and is comfortable using them. European Adventures With Your Service DogIn conclusion, traveling with a service dog in Europe requires careful preparation and an understanding of both EU-wide and country-specific requirements. From ensuring your service dog is microchipped and vaccinated, to familiarizing yourself with airline protocols and local laws, each step is crucial to a smooth journey.
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Service Dog Regulations & Traveling Internationally
Are you planning a trip with your Service Dog to another part of the world? Before you show up at the airport, or even before you book your flight, there are some important regulations and rules you will need to know when traveling with a Service Dog.
Service Dog Health Requirements
Of course, you will want your Service Dog to be at optimal health before traveling. But aside from that, every country has specific regulations when it comes to entering with a foreign animal.
Due to the risk of rabies, It is advisable to start preparing your Service Dog six months before your date of departure to avoid having your dog quarantined.
During this prep time, your dog should have an ISO microchip (this International Standards Organization is a 15 digit number that is accepted worldwide). If your pet does not have an ISO microchip, you can opt to have one implanted or to carry your own scanner.
Your dog may also be required to have two rabies titers before departure. This is essentially a test done to gauge your dog’s immune response to rabies (either through exposure to the virus or through vaccinations). Other blood work may also be necessary depending on the individual area’s regulations.
Service Dog Documentation Requirements
Even though your canine companion is a Service Dog, you will need to carry some important documentation with you when you travel out-of-state. This may include:
Health/rabies records, and microchip documentation from your veterinarian. These documents should also be notarized then certified by the U.S Department of Agriculture. A “good health” letter from your veterinarian stating your dog is healthy. This must be written on your vet’s own letterhead to be accepted. A letter from your health care professional stating that you require the assistance of the Service Dog. Outfitting your Service Dog with the proper identification gear like a vest or special harness.It is also recommended that you contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to find out if they have any bans on particular breeds of dogs. Also, you should call the Department of Ministry of Agriculture in the country you are planning to visit to ask about quarantine policies of incoming animals.
Lastly, have all your documents translated into the native language of the country you are planning on visiting. This helps cut down on the confusion if you are dealing with a non-English speaking individual.
Service Dog Requirements for Common International DestinationsAlthough each country and region of the world have their own policies when it comes to Service Dogs, we’ve gathered the information you will need to know for some popular vacation spots.
Mexico Service Dog Travel LawsTo enter into Mexico with your Service Dog, you must have;
Proof of rabies vaccination at least 15 days prior to entry. Will accept a 3-year rabies vaccination entering from the US or Canada. Proof of treatment for internal and external parasites within the last 6 months Health certificate from your veterinarian. This can be a template printed on their own letterhead. The second option is a USDA-accredited vet can issue the APHIS form 7001 or if traveling from Canada, the Canada Export Tri-Lingual Veterinary certificate can be used.Mexico does not require your Service Dog to be microchipped; however, it is strongly recommended.
Costa Rica Service Dog Travel Laws
To enter into Costa Rica with your Service Dog, you must have;
Rabies vaccination must have been given between 21 days to one year of entering Costa Rica. They will also accept a 3-year rabies vaccination. The dog must enter into the area at least 30 days prior to the vaccination’s expiration date. The Veterinary Certificate for Costa Rica must be filled out within 14 days of entry. An alternate copy translated into Spanish is also required. The certificate must then be endorsed by the State USDA office (United States) or the CFIA office (Canada). If you are traveling from the United States, you must also obtain a USDA health certificate for your Service Dog which has been endorsed by the USDA office. An import permit from your flight Internal and external parasite treatment within the last 15 daysYour Service Dog does not need to be microchipped to enter into Costa Rica.
Japan Service Dog Travel LawsWhen traveling to Japan, be sure your Service Dog has these requirements;
ISO microchip or bring your own scanner Advanced Notification Form must be filed at least 40 days in advance of import with the Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) Rabies Blood Titer Test Must have two rabies vaccinations (inactivated or recombinant) within one year of entry A Japan Health Certificate filled out by an accredited veterinarian within two days of entry. Recently treated for both internal and external parasitesNote that Japan does require a quarantine period for all animals entering the country.
Hong Kong Service Dog Travel LawsBefore you travel to Hong Kong, the following requirements must be met for your Service Dog;
Microchipped with either a 9 or 15 digit code (you may also bring your own scanner) Import permit from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. Rabies vaccination dependant on which country you are traveling from Certificate stating where the animal has resided (length of time dependant on country you are traveling from) Veterinary Certificate for Hong Kong issued by an accredited veterinarian within 14 days of entry Captain’s Affidavit stating your Service Dog did not leave or come in contact with any other animal during the flight. Philippines Service Dog Travel LawsIf you are thinking about traveling to the Philippines, these requirements must be met when concerning your Service Dog;
Import Permit/Veterinary Quarantine Clearance (good for two months) Rabies vaccination within the last 30 days and no longer than one year Additional vaccinations against canine distemper, infectious hepatitis, leptospirosis, and canine parvovirus Health/Veterinary Certificate Treated for external and internal parasites within the last 48 hours France Service Dog Travel LawsDo you want to travel to France with your service dog? Here’s what your Service Dog will need;
ISO microchip (or bring your own scanner) Proof of current rabies vaccination Rabies titer test Health Certificate (dependant on country of departure)Service Dog Regulations When Traveling Internationally – Do Your Homework!
When you are planning a trip outside of your country, it’s important to do your homework in regards to a Service Dog. Remember to start the process at least 6 months in advance so you will have the time it takes to obtain the needed documents. In addition, be sure to follow all the requirements to the letter to ensure you and your Service Dog will be allowed into the region.
Service dog rules also change from time to time, so it is important to research what the latest rules are well in advance so you can prepare.
Happy Travels!
Traveling to London with your dog?
Are you a fan of both animals and travelling? If you’re headed for England, the best of both worlds are yours. You can be sure that pet-friendly amenities all over England that will keep both you and your pooch entertained – but before we deal with the details of the vacation itself, let’s first discuss the measures you’ll have to take to fly Fido out of the U.S., and into the U.K.!
Requirements for Pets
There are strict guidelines you’ll need to follow to ensure that your dog is fit for travelling. Because the United States is an unlisted country (it’s not part of the EU), there are a few more entry requirements you’ll have to make sure your pet has. Among these requirements are a health certificate, a rabies vaccination, a microchip, a blood test taken 30 days after vaccination, and treatment for tapeworm – if your pet is a dog.
After that blood test is taken, you’ll need to wait another 3 months before travelling to make sure that the rabies vaccination works; your USDA accredited vet will give you a copy of the test results. You’re allowed a maximum of 5 pets to bring, but there are some exceptions to the rule, like if you’re bringing these pets for a pet show. You’ll need to show them registration to prove this.
Service Dogs in England
While the same rules apply for assistance dogs than they do for regular pets to travel, assistance dogs get a few more perks; they can travel along routes and in places other dogs can’t. For example, instead of being locked up in a kennel, they’ll be able to assist the person in need in the aircraft cabin.
England does recognize service dogs, and they should not be a problem to bring around with you wherever you go. Take note, though, they are referred to as “assistance dogs” over there!
Pet Friendly Places
As long as your dog is well-behaved and on a lead (that’s what they call a leash in the U.K.), England is mostly a very dog-friendly area. They have hotels that will willingly accommodate both pet and owner, as well as hotels that serve just your pup! Pen-y-Dyffryn is a multiple award-winning hotel in Shropshire that allows pets with you in their rooms, while ensuring you have a comfortable, luxurious stay. Sandybrook County Park in Derbyshire also lets you bring your dogs with you everywhere, and provides plenty of woodland where you can bring them for nice, long walks.
If you want to leave your dog for a while and have a night out at a place that isn’t so pet-friendly, try out the The Grove: Luxury Dog Boarding in Whittington, where you can leave your dog overnight to be taken cared of, and have a pampering, delightful stay.
In London, the Brick Lane Coffee lets you have your dose of fair trade coffee, while letting your dogs in as well! For some drinks at the Pub, Star & Anchor allows you to unwind with beverage in hand and a happy dog beside you. With England being such a great place to bond with your dog, there are far too many places to name that are pet-friendly! Fancy to visit a certain place and just need to bring your pup? Don’t be shy to phone them and ask!
[Editor’s Note: Please be aware that this material does not serve as legal advice. As with all blog content discussing legalities, be sure to consult Federal and State laws specific to your area before implementing any of this advice into your practices.]
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