Traveling with your dog

Vacation time is the best time of the year - of course your beloved furry friend has to be there too! However, there are a few things to consider when traveling abroad with your dog: from entry requirements for your four-legged friend to the climate and the obligation to wear a muzzle on public transport. You can find the most important basic rules for good travel preparation with your dog here. Nothing should stand in the way of a successful and relaxed vacation.

 

 Further information Checklist 

Depending on where you are going, it is advisable to have your dog vaccinated in advance against known diseases and pathogens at your destination. It is therefore recommended to visit your vet before your trip. They will advise you on possible vaccinations and worming treatments and also give you helpful tips for your first-aid kit.

Especially when traveling abroad, you should make sure that your four-legged friend does not eat any raw meat or waste on the street. Leftovers are also taboo. Otherwise your dog may suffer digestive problems such as diarrhea and/or vomiting.

You should also think about your four-legged friend's water. In Germany, tap water is of drinking water quality. But what about abroad? In some countries, drinking tap water is not recommended. In this case, it is better to give your dog still mineral water from bottles.

Is it very hot at your vacation destination? A high ambient temperature can quickly become dangerous for your dog because it cannot regulate its body temperature by sweating like we humans do. To prevent your dog from overheating and experiencing circulatory problems, spend midday in the shade or in closed, temperature-controlled rooms. Postpone walks until the early morning or evening. This is also important for your dog's sensitive paws. A hot surface (such as sand or stone slabs) can lead to burns. It is best to test the surface with your hand. The rule of thumb here is: if it is uncomfortable or clearly too hot for your hands or feet, the same is also true for your dog.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Beach vacation with your dog

If you are planning a vacation by the sea with your four-legged friend, it is best to find out in advance about beaches where dogs are allowed. Within Germany, for example, this is often only the case on certain stretches of beach during the summer months. In addition to poop bags, your beach bag should also include sufficient water and a drinking bowl. Also pack a beach tent or something similar to provide shade on the beach. In hotter regions, avoid the midday sun if possible. If your dog shows the first signs of weakness, circulatory problems or overheating, you should end your visit to the beach immediately and make sure your furry friend cools down quickly.

Important for a swim in the sea/lake: Your dog should be in good physical condition. If it suffers from an illness, poor circulation or heart problems, swimming is not recommended. However, it is an ideal form of exercise if your dog has arthritis or is overweight. Only ever let your dog into the water under supervision and without a harness or collar. To remove salt residues from the skin and coat, we recommend a thorough shower with fresh water after bathing. You should also limit or even completely prevent your dog from drinking salt water, as the high salt content usually leads to diarrhea.

Legal requirements for dogs 

If you want to travel abroad with your furry friend, your dog must be electronically marked and identifiable with a chip. You must also carry a fully completed and valid EU pet passport and your dog must have valid rabies protection. Deworming is sometimes recommended or even mandatory. You can get detailed advice on this at your veterinary practice. The entry and exit requirements are different for each country. If you are unsure, you can find out more on the website of the Federal Foreign Office or from the veterinary practice.

Depending on the country you are traveling to, there are special rules for carrying dogs in public. Almost everywhere abroad, dogs must be kept on a leash. In Portugal, for example, dogs must also be muzzled. This is also required when using public transport in many countries. To avoid fines, find out about the legal regulations for traveling with a dog before you start your trip - both at your destination and in the countries you are passing through.

Good to know

To ensure that your vacation is as relaxed as possible, a well-stocked first-aid kit is essential in addition to thorough preparation. Don't forget the natural veterinary medicines from Heel Vet. Your vet can advise you on which medicines are helpful or even necessary in the first-aid kit.

CHECKLIST

Packing list for a vacation with a dog

  • EU pet passport
  • Information on the animal's liability insurance
  • Any necessary forms/entry requirements
  • Travel first-aid kit 
  • Long-term medication (remember to organize supplies from your vet ahead of time)
  • Transport box
  • Leash
  • Muzzle
  • Address card (also indicating travel dates and vacation address)
  • Fresh drinking water in a bottle/water bowl
  • Poop bag
  • Food, treats
  • Brush, comb
  • Sun protection
  • Basket/blanket, toys
  • Towels

Further topics of interest