Practical tips for a holiday abroad with your dog
Travelling with your dog is an enjoyable and enriching experience, but it requires some attention and precautions.
In this article, I will explain what to do before leaving for a foreign destination, when travelling and how to behave at the beach and in the mountains, so that you and your four-legged friend can have one of the best holidays of your lives.
Travelling with a dog abroad
Travelling with your four-legged friend in Italy is definitely easier than travelling abroad, but only in terms of documents and means of transport.
There are now many pet-friendly countries that welcome your furry friends with open arms, but you need to check and plan everything in advance to avoid wrong choices that would ruin the holiday for you and your pooch.
If you are planning a trip abroad, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the safety and comfort for your four-legged friend while travelling.
Here is some useful information on everything you need to know when travelling abroad with your dog:
- documents and vaccinations;
- dog transportation;
- food and water;
- medicine and treatment carriage;
- local rules and restrictions;
- dog care and hygiene.
Documents and vaccinations
Before leaving, make sure your dog has all the necessary documents and vaccinations for the destination country.
In general, most countries require the dog to have a European pet passport, certifying its identity, vaccines and anti-parasite treatment.
Some countries may require additional documents or vaccinations, such as the rabies vaccine or malaria prophylaxis. Always check the specific requirements of the country of destination by obtaining information either at your travel agency, embassy or by asking your veterinarian.
Dog transportation
When travelling, your dog must be transported safely and comfortably.
If you are travelling by plane, contact the airline to find out what their policies are for transporting pets and book a seat for your dog in advance, but be careful: not all of them allow dogs on board.
The general rule is that only dogs weighing a maximum of 10 kg (including the carrier) may be transported in the cabin; bigger dogs are transported in the cargo hold with all that this entails.
Food and water
During the trip, make sure to bring enough food and water for your dog’s needs. In general, it is advisable to take the dog’s usual food to avoid stomach issues and diarrhoea. If you travel by plane, check the airline’s rules for transporting food and water for pets.
Transport of medicines and accessories
If your dog needs medication or special accessories, such as leashes or harnesses, be sure to take them with you on your trip.
Check the local rules for importing medicines for pets, as some substances may be banned in some countries.
Local rules and restrictions
Before travelling, check the local rules and restrictions concerning dogs in the destination country. In some countries, dogs may not be allowed in certain areas, such as national parks or beaches.
In addition, some establishments, such as restaurants or hotels, may not accept dogs. Check carefully before making your reservation. You can contact the tourism authorities of the places that you plan to visit, they will provide you with all the information you need.
Dog care and hygiene
While travelling, be sure to take care of your dog, keeping it clean and hygienic. Have bags for faeces collection with you and behave as you would in Italy. Respect for others must always be at the top of your priorities.
Enjoy your travelling!
Pet-friendly villages
If you love the sea and don’t want to give up the company of your four-legged friend, BiHoliday villages are the ideal solution for the whole family’s holiday.
You will enjoy an unforgettable stay in a natural and welcoming setting, with many services dedicated to you and your pet.
BiHoliday facilities are the ideal place to experience the sea and nature with your faithful companion, in a relaxed family atmosphere.
Book your pet-friendly holiday now and get ready to have fun!
Our villages
The BiVillage (Fažana, Croatia) and the Villaggio San Francesco (Caorle, Italy) are located within walking distance of beautiful beaches, both of which have been awarded the Blue Flag!
Each village has a portion of beach reserved for those travelling with their pet: the Bi Dog Beach and, at the San Francesco Village, you will also find a dedicated agility area.
Meet the author
Andrea Petroni
Andrea Petroni turned his passion into a job years ago. He is the creator of the vologratis.org project, which was launched at the end of 2009 and has quickly become one of Italy’s most important travel bloggers.
He loves travelling with his family: his wife Valentina, little Nicholas and Victoria and his basset hound Gastone.
Since 2017, he has also been an author of travel literature: through his books, he keeps advising travellers and tourists on hidden gems to visit in Italy and around the world.
Today he is a multi-million view travel content creator!
Amazing creativity: what will be your next journey?