Fur-quently Asked Questions

To travel with your pet, you’ll need these essentials:

• Pet Passport or Official ID: For international/EU travel. Shows microchip number and rabies vaccination status. Issued by your vet.
• Health Certificate: Confirms your pet is fit to travel. Usually required within 7–10 (sometimes 30) days before departure—ask your vet.
• Rabies Vaccination Certificate: Proof of up-to-date rabies shot. First vaccination must be done at least 21 days before travel.
• Microchip Documentation: Most places require a microchip (ISO 11784/11785).
• Import Permit (sometimes): Needed for exotic pets or some destinations—check government sites.

Tip: Always verify requirements for both entry and return—rules can change quickly.

Not all countries have the same rules for pets. Some have strict entry requirements or outright bans on certain species or breeds. 

• Research destination: Some require quarantine, extra paperwork, or prohibit specific breeds/animals (e.g., Australia, New Zealand, UK).
• Use approved travel routes: Ports/airports with animal health inspectors.
• Pet limits: Most places allow up to 5 pets per traveler for non-commercial trips.
• Plan return entry: Your home country may have more or different rules for coming back.

• Rabies vaccination: Always required. Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old; wait 21 days after the first shot before travel.
• Booster shots: Must be current; expired shots may mean new waiting periods.
• Other vaccines: Depending on the country, dogs may need distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis; cats may need FVRCP.
• Microchip: Must come before the rabies vaccination for EU/UK travel.
• Parasite treatments: Tapeworm or tick treatment needed in some destinations, given within specific timeframes before arrival.

Traveling with rabbits, birds, reptiles, or other exotic pets is possible but requires extra planning: 

• Import permits: Often needed for non-traditional pets.
• Health certificates/testing: Some species need special tests or checks.
• Species bans: Many regions restrict certain animals to protect wildlife.
• Quarantine: Exotic pets often face longer or automatic quarantine periods.
• Airline restrictions: Most airlines only carry dogs and cats; few accept other species.

Most airlines allow small pets (dogs/cats) to fly in-cabin if they fit in an airline-approved carrier under the seat. 

• Size/weight limits: Vary by airline (typically up to 8kg/18 lbs with carrier for in-cabin).
• One pet per passenger (common rule): Confirm with your airline.
• Advance booking required: Spaces are limited (often first come, first served).
• Carrier standards: Soft, leak-proof, and ventilated—check airline dimensions.

Airlines often restrict brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds, aggressive breeds, or pets over a certain size/weight. 

• Breed bans: Pit bulls, bulldogs, Pekingese, and Persian cats are sometimes not allowed (especially in cargo).
• Size limits: If a pet/carrier is too large, cargo transport may be needed.
• Documentation: Airlines and some destinations require up-to-date breed/cross-breed info.

Cargo holds are pressurized/temperature controlled on reputable airlines, but traveling as baggage/cargo is more stressful—especially for pets that are old, young, snub-nosed, or anxious.

• Ask your airline about their pet safety record.
• Avoid cargo travel during extreme weather or peak season.
• Some airlines offer “pet safe” programs with special handling.

The perfect pet carrier for air travel is:

• Airline approved: Meets your airline’s size restrictions (check specs before booking).
• Comfortable and safe: Enough room for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down; secure closures; absorbent bottom liner.
• Ventilated: At least two mesh sides, good airflow.
• Labeled: With your pet’s and your information—required for cargo.

• No sedatives unless prescribed: Many airlines ban sedated pets due to risk. Talk to your vet about natural calmers if needed.
• Pre-flight prep: Practice trips and carrier time; bring familiar toys/blankets.
• During flight: Reassure your pet, remain calm; don’t open the carrier unless necessary.
• Arrive early: Avoid stress from rushing through check-in/security.

• Make the carrier a happy place: Leave it open at home with your pet’s favorite blanket or toy inside. Feed treats or meals in the carrier so they associate it with good things.
• Practice makes perfect: Take short car rides or walks with your pet in the carrier weeks before travel.
• Reward calmness: Praise and reward your pet for entering or relaxing in the carrier.

• Carrier: Airline-approved, comfortable, and labeled with your contact info.
• ID: Collar and tag with your contact details and a recent photo of your pet.
• Food & treats: Bring enough for the entire trip, plus collapsible bowls for food and water.
• Toy/blanket: Familiar items help reduce stress.
• Waste bags & wipes: For quick cleanups anywhere.
• Health/Vaccination documents: Carry all paperwork required by airlines/countries.
• First-aid kit: Include basic supplies, any medications, and your vet’s contact info.

• Plan a vet visit: Make sure vaccinations, microchip, and paperwork are current.
• Carrier training: Let your pet get comfy with the carrier weeks in advance.
• Routine: Slowly adjust feeding and walk times to match your travel schedule.
• Socialization: Visit busier places or simulate noises your pet might hear en route.
• Emergency contacts: Research vets near your destination.

• Feed lightly: Give your pet their last meal 3–4 hours before traveling to avoid tummy trouble.
• Hydration is vital: Offer water up until leaving and bring a travel bowl.
• Treats: Bring familiar treats for comfort and rewards along the way.
• Special advice: For pets with medical needs, ask your vet about best feeding times before departure.

• Search with purpose: Use filters on trusted booking sites or apps (like Woofly, BringFido, Go Pet Friendly).
• Read the fine print: Check for fees, rules, or pet size/breed limits.
• Call ahead: Confirm the property’s current policy—especially for more than one pet, or non-dog/cat companions.
• Reviews: Read guest reviews about actual experiences traveling with pets.
• Bonus: Look for nearby parks or safe walking spots.

• Leashes required: Most spaces outside your room call for a leash.
• Never leave pets alone (unless allowed/crated): Check specific rules for unattended pets.
• Clean up after your pet: Always; bring your own bags, just in case.
• Limited access: Some areas (like pools or dining rooms) may be off limits to pets.
• Deposits & fees: Be prepared for extra cleaning charges or refundable deposits.

• Research: Use Woofly’s guides, Google Maps, or local tourism sites with “pet-friendly” filters.
• Local knowledge: Ask your accommodation for tips, or join social media groups dedicated to local pet owners.
• Apps: Some cities offer dedicated pet-friendly location apps and maps for restaurants, hikes, and even shops.
• Observe: Look for outdoor patios, water bowls, or dog parks while exploring!

• Check policies in advance: Many cities allow small pets in carriers for free; large pets may need a ticket/muzzle/leash.
• Website info: Visit the official transport website or ask at a local station desk for up-to-date info.
• Pro tips: Travel during off-peak times, bring comfort items, and keep all documentation handy—especially for intercity or international train/bus routes.

• Standard airline counters: Most travelers check in pets at their airline’s regular desk (with all documents ready).
• Cargo pets: If your pet travels as cargo, the airline may direct you to their cargo facility, often in a separate area—be sure to check directions in advance.
• Arrive early: Give yourself at least an extra hour; check-in staff may need to verify papers or take payment for pet fees.

• Growing trend: Most larger airports offer indoor or outdoor pet relief areas, often marked with paw print signs or shown on terminal maps.
• Before & after security: Facilities may be available both pre- and post-security—ask airport staff or use the airport’s website for locations.
• Plan ahead: If your airport doesn’t have a facility, bring puppy pads or a portable litter tray for long waits.

• Layover planning: Look up pet relief areas in your transfer airports before travel.
• Portable solutions: Carry puppy pads or travel litter trays in case facilities aren’t available.
• Hydration & comfort: Offer water and a favorite toy to ease nerves. If allowed, find a quiet lounge or outdoor space for a quick walk (always with a leash and bag).

• In-cabin pets: Stay with you for the entire journey—simply exit the airport together.
• Cargo/baggage pets: Collect your pet at the airline’s designated baggage claim, live animal area, or cargo terminal. Always bring your paperwork and ID.
• Ask if unsure: Don’t hesitate to request directions—some airports have staff/volunteers just for helping pet travelers.

• Know the signs: If your pet’s acting off (vomiting, diarrhea, won’t eat, lethargy), contact a local vet right away.
• Prepare ahead: Carry health records, a basic pet first-aid kit, and your vet’s contact details.
• Ask for help: Hotels and airports can recommend nearby vets or emergency clinics.
• Never use human meds: Unless specifically recommended by a vet; always get professional advice for your pet’s care.

• Major airports: Some larger airports have vet clinics onsite or can direct you to a 24/7 animal hospital nearby—check the airport website or info desk.
• On the road: Use online vet locators or local pet communities for recommendations at your destination.
• Contacts: Add emergency vet numbers to your phone before you travel for quick access.

• Consult your vet first: Only use prescribed or approved calming aids, never self-medicate your pet.
• Alternatives: Try pheromone sprays, anxiety wraps, or natural chews that you’ve tested at home before travel.
• Avoid sedatives unless absolutely necessary: Many airlines won’t accept sedated pets due to safety risks during flight.

• Essentials: Gauze, vet wrap, antiseptic wipes, tick remover, thermometer, blunt scissors, tweezers, spare meds, and your pet’s medical docs. Bring familiar treats, a collapsible bowl, and your vet’s number too.
• Add water & comfort items: Extra water and a soft blanket can soothe emergencies big or small.

• Expert info: Up-to-date airline and hotel pet policies, real traveler tips, and interactive tools help you plan every detail.
• Time-saving guides: Filter airlines by cabin or cargo options, compare fees and breed rules in seconds.
• Community reviews: Read and leave honest feedback for other pet parents.

• Share your advice: Use Woofly’s feedback form or community space to help fellow pet travelers avoid pitfalls and discover hidden gems.
• Every tip counts: Whether big or small, your stories improve every journey for the next traveler!

• Visit the Airlines page: Woofly keeps a current table of airlines with in-cabin and cargo rules, fees, and restrictions.
• Use filters: Find airlines that match your pet’s weight, size, or your preferred route in seconds.
• Official links: Every listing connects you to the actual pet policy for final confirmation.

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