Travelling with Pets: Bus, Plane and Transfer Options

You want to take your furry friend on holiday, but the rules are unclear, companies say different things and everyone online writes something else. Here we have gathered the general framework, the most important points for your animal's safety and the options for each way of travelling. Rules vary by country, airline and company; always get written confirmation from the company before you travel.

The most important rule: do not give your pet a sedative without consulting your vet

Some companies may ask for animals, especially those carried in the cargo or luggage hold, to be “sedated”. Taking this request at face value and giving medication straight away is a bad idea. Sedatives can affect an animal's breathing and its ability to regulate body temperature; the risk rises when heat, stress and an enclosed space are added. Do not use medication unless a vet recommends otherwise in writing. Clear evidence for “herbal” products against travel stress is also weak; ask your vet.

Cat or dog? Differences on the road

• Cats usually spend the journey calmly in their carrier, but meowing, hiding or toilet accidents can be signs of stress. Getting them used to the carrier days before the trip makes a difference.
• Dogs need breaks and movement. On a long journey, give them a break with water and a toilet opportunity at least every 2–3 hours.
• Puppies, kittens and older animals are more sensitive to heat and travel stress. Talk to your vet.
• Short-nosed breeds (such as bulldogs, pugs and Persian cats) can have breathing problems in the heat; they need extra care in aircraft cargo and in hot weather.

Bus: often banned or very restricted

Road passenger transport rules generally do not allow live animals in the passenger compartment; some companies may accept an animal only in its carrier in the luggage hold, while many large companies do not accept animals at all. Travelling in the luggage hold is risky for an animal in terms of heat and ventilation. So if you plan to go by bus:

• Call the company in advance and ask in writing whether it accepts animals.
• Think about whether you really find travel in the hold acceptable, and talk to your vet before agreeing.
• If possible, choose an alternative: a private car, a private transfer or, for short distances, another plan.

Plane: cabin and cargo

• In the cabin: Many airlines allow small cats and dogs that, together with their carrier, do not exceed a certain weight to travel in the cabin. The limit (often around 8 kg) varies by airline; bag size and carrier type also matter.
• Cargo hold: For larger animals there is a pressure- and temperature-controlled section reserved for animals; it is not the same place as the suitcase hold. Even so, the weather, the breed (short-nosed breeds are considered at risk) and airline conditions matter.
• Documents: Vaccination card, health certificate, microchip; on international flights, the requirements of the destination country. Research these months in advance.
• Booking: The number of animals accepted in the cabin is limited, so book a place for your pet when you buy your ticket.

Private car and transfer: the least problematic option

For pet owners the most comfortable option is a private vehicle in which the animal can travel with you in the passenger compartment. If you choose a private transfer:

• In the booking, write your pet's species, breed, approximate weight and carrier size.
• Get written confirmation that the driver and the company accept animals; some drivers may decline because of allergies or vehicle conditions.
• Secure the animal safely throughout the journey (carrier or seat-belt harness); do not hold it on your lap.
• On a long journey ask for breaks, and allow time for water and toilet stops.
• Prepare the car with a cover or blanket in case of fur and mess.

We carry passengers with pets, notified in advance at booking, in the passenger compartment of the vehicle together with their carrier. The important thing is to mention it when you book.

Leaving a pet in the car: the most dangerous mistake

Leaving the window open a few centimetres is not enough. In a parked car the temperature rises sharply within minutes and the animal can suffer heatstroke. Never leave your pet alone in a closed car in the sun.

• Signs of heatstroke: excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, staggering, vomiting.
• First aid: move the animal to shade and a cool place and cool its body slowly with lukewarm-to-cool water; do not cool it suddenly with ice-cold water.
• Always take it to the nearest vet and have it checked, even if the symptoms pass.

Hotels and accommodation

Many hotels do not accept animals or impose restrictions when they do. Before booking, find out in writing: are animals accepted, is there an extra charge, are there species/weight limits, may the animal enter common areas, may it be left alone in the room. These questions matter even at places advertised as pet-friendly.

If you are going abroad, the pet entry requirements of the destination country (vaccinations, microchip, health certificate, quarantine) vary greatly and require months of preparation. Confirm them on the official authority's page (the country's agriculture/veterinary authority).

Travel-day plan

1. A light meal 4–6 hours before the trip, plenty of water and a toilet break before departure.
2. Secure the carrier or travel bag on a comfortable, non-slip surface.
3. On a short trip you may not need a break, but plan your stops in advance according to the length of the journey.
4. On hot days the car should be in the shade and air-conditioned; never leave the animal in a closed car.
5. Keep the animal's ID (tag, microchip) up to date; have your phone number written on its collar.
6. On arrival give your pet a place to rest, water and a calm environment.

Checklist before you set off

• Vaccination card, health certificate, microchip details
• Carrier/crate (large enough for the animal to turn around comfortably)
• Water, food, bowl, lead, wet wipes, bags
• Favourite blanket or toy
• Don't give a big meal before the trip; keep it light
• Written confirmation that your hotel accepts animals

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