# Travel with pets

Traveling with pets can be difficult because laws vary widely from country to country. This article details legal restrictions on pets (guarantees, pet passports, vaccination); pet restrictions or prices on transport and pet safety (potential diseases like rabies or canine distemper, or approach of locals).
A PETS passport should be obtained from your vet before travel. This document with vaccination information is matched to the electronic tag embedded in the pets neck.

## Get in

Some animals are not allowed at all in some countries. Having more than a couple of pets may be regarded as commercial import, requiring much more bureaucracy than "personal" pets. Planes, ferries and other public transport may have their own restrictions.

### Pet passport, chip, travel documents and vaccination

In Europe, the owner must have the proper pet passport, ownership licence and document from Veterinary Physician to show proof the pet is in good health to travel. And importantly the rabies vaccination (and possibly other compulsory medication) has been administered. The Rabies Vaccination must be administered minimum 30 days or more before the journey. In some cases a test for rabies antibodies must be carried out in an approved laboratory after the vaccination and a further wait period observed. This may apply also when taking a vaccinated pet for a brief visit to a high-risk country.
Some of these are very tight on timing. For example, the UK requires evidence of tapeworm treatment by a vet not less than 24 hours and not more than 120 hours before crossing the border into the UK.
Owners travelling from the UK to the EU with their pets will also need an Animal Health Certificate obtained 10 days in advance of travel on each trip, and use designated ports of entry. These rules also apply to guide and assistance dogs.
The pet passport means your pet has a chip generally implanted under the fur on their neck. This chip can be scanned and details of the animal and its history can be viewed. This should be updated every time your pet visits the Vet.
Without the pet passport along with the Veterinary Physician's medical clearance certificate your pets will have to go into quarantine when they arrive in the destination country in Europe – or they may be denied entry altogether if quarantine facilities are unavailable.
There are quite a few documents to accompany your pet. Pet passport, copies of ownership licence, veterinary physician medical certificate plus the airline and freight tickets. If the pet is going in the cargo hold of the airline, the freight service company handling your pet will put everything into an envelope and tape these to the cage your pet is travelling in.

## Transport

Regardless of specifics, travelling will be much more easy if your pet is used to being handled by you and strangers, and used to new places. Dogs may have no problems with travelling, if trained in time, but for some pets travelling just for the sake of it is cruel. Loud or stressful environments should probably avoided for all pets. For pets that shouldn't be taken on trips unnecessarily, making them used to handling and to using their crate may still be advantageous.

### By pet shipping service

As you'll quickly see, trying to navigate the multitude of options, learn and apply all the restrictions, and book and carry out a plan can be a huge hassle, one that you might not have time for if you are moving or trying to make a long and complicated trip. There are many companies that will handle some or all of this work for you, even going as far as offering door-to-door service.

### By boat

On ships there is plenty of room for your pet, but check whether it is allowed on board and where you can have it. Pets are not allowed in all cabins and not in all areas. Often the pets must be mentioned when booking the voyage.
There are pet toilets on some ships. Train your pet in advance to use the type on board, if possible. Otherwise you may have to train your pet to use facilities that you provide yourself.
On short and medium haul ferries, such as France-UK Channel crossing, pets may have to stay in your vehicle for the trip.

### By train

On some trains you need a separate ticket for your pet, especially if it is large enough not to be had in a cage in your knee. You may have to travel in a separate compartment. The cage may be mandatory for some pets. In other places pets that are not service animals are not allowed on trains

### By bus

Often pets don't fit and are therefore not allowed. Sometimes they may transported if you pay extra. In some countries taking them on the bus is no problem.

### By cable-car

In some countries it is required for all dogs to wear a muzzle.

### By plane

Options for sending pets by plane vary by airline and by country:
* A few airlines don't accept pets at all.
* Some airlines only accept pets in the baggage compartments at the bottom of the plane. Depending on the airline, pets can either be checked (your pets fly on the same plane as you, checked and generally priced similarly to an oversize piece of checked luggage) or cargo (your pet is handled and sent through the airline's cargo service). Cargo can be advantageous because the pets can fly by themselves without a person, and you can authorize someone other than yourself to drop them off or pick them up.
* Some airlines allow pets in the cabin for a fee, but they must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, which effectively limits this to only cats and small dogs. Generally, the pet must remain in its carrier the entire time. No airlines today allow you to bring larger pets in the cabin.
** However, there are generally legally-required exceptions for service animals (ones which are trained to perform a specific task to assist their owner) and emotional support animals (ones which don't have specific training, but simply assist those with mental health issues). In both cases, proper documentation is required. Typically the animal must still be able to fit at your feet or in your lap; for larger dogs, you may need to purchase a particular seat (such as one in the first row with a bulkhead in front of it) so that there will be enough room.
* Travelling on a private plane generally has no legal restrictions: you can bring any animal you like, as long as it fits on the plane and is allowed at the destination, and it doesn't have to be in a carrier at all. Charter flights, depending on the operator, often don't impose many or any restrictions, either; that freedom is part of their draw over traditional airlines.
* Cargo airlines may be an option, but usually not for dogs and cats. UPS accepts all amphibians, lizards, turtles, and many aquatic animals, but not mammals, birds, or snakes. DHL only ships animals in the U.S. and only accepts frogs, insects, lizards, turtles, sea life, and worms.
Sending your pet through freight services can be quite expensive in comparison to buying your seat on the plane. As cargo, prices are calculated based on the dimensions of the kennel and the weight. A medium-size dog might cost around US$500, whereas for the same price you might be able to get an economy seat for yourself and bring your dog as checked baggage.
For storing under your seat, soft kennels are the best option, as they're flexible enough to fit under a seat easily. For pets in the baggage compartments, they must be in a hard container that meets requirements from IATA and your airline. Most requirements are not surprising — for example, the container must be ventilated on at least three sides, and must have "LIVE ANIMAL" and "THIS WAY UP" stickers — but there are some that are less obvious:
* The container must be large enough that the animal can stand, turn around, and lie down. Airlines may interpret this as "without touching the top of the container (even the ears or tail)", which may necessitate a much larger kennel than you would otherwise expect.
** Very large kennels may not fit on small aircraft, which would then force you to find a different flight (perhaps to or from a larger city, or connecting through a different hub airport).
* Plastic containers are fine, but if they are two-piece containers that disassemble into a separate top and bottom, they must be attached with threaded nuts and bolts, not merely plastic clips. Doors must not have locks, but will likely be ziptied by airline staff to prevent accidental opening and tampering.
* There must be food and water containers attached inside the container, but able to be filled from the outside without opening the kennel.
* The bottom must be lined with absorbent bedding, such as an absorbent kennel pad or shredded paper. Straw, hay, and similar materials are often prohibited, especially on international flights.
When pets will be travelling in the baggage compartment, give lots of consideration to the weather. They will likely have to wait in a warehouse or near the aircraft for 2 hours or more before being loaded onto the plane, and may have a similarly long wait when arriving. If the weather is too cold or too hot, airlines will refuse to accept pets; if you already gave your pets to the airline but the weather changes, you would have to return and pick up your pets to try again another day. This means, for instance, that during summer, you should book the earliest flight possible to maximize the chance that your pets will make it onto their flight before the temperature rises too far.
Give similar consideration to your pets' comfort. Help reduce the scariness of the journey by purchasing the kennel well in advance, and leaving it open in the house for them to become accustomed to; putting a toy or treats inside can help them to spend time near it and even venture inside. Including a favorite blanket, unwashed, will make your pet's journey much more pleasant. You can also expect that, no matter how careful airline staff are, water and food will get spilled inside the kennel; pack it with ample absorbent material.
Particularly for dogs travelling in the cabin, plan ahead for how to deal with your pet needing to relieve itself. Have poop bags as well as alcohol wipes on hand in case your pet relieves itself in a public area. Find out if there are indoor pet relief areas at your origin or destination, and let your pet use these just before the flight and as soon afterwards as possible.

#### Airlines

The following is a brief summary of the policies of major airlines. To avoid getting bogged down in details, prices given are for that airline's domestic or typical international flights, and many restrictions such as valid countries are not listed.
* Air Canada allows small pets in the cabin for $50-60 (Canada or U.S.) or $100-118 (international), checked pets for $105-121 (Canada and U.S.) or $270-319 (international), and ships pets via (prices in Canadian or U.S. dollars, as of July 2020)Air Canada Cargo.
* Air France allows small pets in the cabin for €30-125, checked pets for €75-200, and ships many types of animals via Air France KLM Martinair Cargo$^{[deadlink]}$.
* American allows small pets in the cabin for US$125/kennel, checked pets for $200/kennel, and ships pets via American Airlines Cargo$^{[deadlink]}$.
* Delta allows small pets in the cabin, and can ship almost any animal via Delta Cargo.
* Lufthansa is widely known for exceptional care of pets through their cargo freight service.

## Different pets
### Birds

Birds find travel stressful. Plan for proper hours of light and dark, and a steady supply of food and water. Airlines may not accept large birds, but if they accept pets, they will probably accept small birds in a suitable cage.

### Cats

Cats can be good travelers, especially when you give them many (many many many) opportunities to have brief, positive, pleasant experiences in your car beforehand. Train your cat to use a crate, and give the cat time to visit your car and explore the crate being in the car, before trying to turn the engine on. After the cat is accustomed to being inside the car, turn the engine on. After practicing this new experience for a few days, try an extremely short trip – perhaps just to the end of the driveway and back. Build up slowly until the cat associates the car with treats and happiness. Bring familiar bedding, blankets, or other comforting items for use at your destination. If you are going without your car, try a similar approach to whatever kind of vehicle you will be using, perhaps starting with the crate and being carried around in it.

### Dogs

Dogs are usually good travelers. If home is where the heart is, then your dog's heart is with you. If your dog doesn't like getting in the car, then repeated exposure to positive experiences is likely the best solution. Invite the dog into your car every day, and offer a reward of praise, attention, or food each time, until it becomes normal. Some states require a form of restraint for dogs in moving cars. Take brief trips to positive places, such as a dog park or an empty field to run around and sniff for exciting discoveries in, before trying to make a longer trip. As with cats, if you are not going by car (or will be using also public transport at the destination), use other vehicles. Taking the dog on the bus may be easy (depending on where you live), first on off hours for one stop only, or even just on and off, if that's possible.
In some countries, it is customary or required for some or all dogs to wear a muzzle, which yours should have got used to beforehand. Also where not required generally, they might be expected in areas with many people, and using public transport may require your dog to wear one.
Dogs often chase deer, hares or other wildlife if given the opportunity. A dog running loose will scare nesting birds and other animals, dig in sensitive habitats, and otherwise cause significant damage without even being aggressive. Dogs may be required to be on a leash (nearly) all the time, both around people and in environments where they might disturb livestock or wildlife. Where a dog has to be leashed and where it is allowed to be free varies between countries. Even a well-behaved dog can cause irritation or worse if it is not leashed where it is expected to be.
You might want to lodge somewhere that your dog can run and play in the yard. At some destinations, there are dog havens where a dog can be let free and play with other dogs (given it plays nice, is not in heat, etc.).
Rules on taking care of the litter vary.

### Rabbits

Rabbits are poor travelers. Given the opportunity, most would rather stay home while you go on the trip. If you need to bring a rabbit with you, let it get used to a crate first, and then watch for signs of stress on the road.

### Reptiles and amphibians

Reptiles are indifferent travelers at best: either they don't care, or they hate it. All the humans involved, however, will probably hate traveling with them. In addition to the common prejudice against reptiles – a prejudice that results in no-snake rules at nearly all hotels and many other accommodations and transportation systems – you will need to deal with problems such as maintaining correct body temperature and hydration without your normal setup. Whenever possible, reptiles and amphibians should be left at home.

### Rodents

It is possible to travel with mice, rats, gerbils, guinea pigs, and other rodents, but it is not necessarily easy. Check your itinerary at every step to make sure your pet is welcome. Hotels may refuse guests with such pets, for fear that an escaped pet rat will turn into an expensive rodent infestation. Airlines may accept gerbils or guinea pigs carried as hand luggage in the cabin, but mice and rats normally have to be shipped as cargo.

### Less-common pets

Ferrets, hedgehogs, and some other unusual pets are banned from some destinations. Some of these bans apply even within the same country, e.g., both California and Queensland ban the importation of ferrets from anywhere, including from neighboring states.

### Dangerous, rare or endangered species

    See also: animal ethics
There can be strict laws about animals that may or may not be transported, or restrictions on which animals may be owned and kept as pets. These vary between jurisdictions (for instance, Ontario banned pitbull dogs in 2005.)

## Buy

Consider whether you have to bring along supplies as required by your pet's nutritional needs. Not every type of pet food is easily available in every country, or in every region of a specific country, although online shopping may come handy provided you can give out an address. Whether the products are due to cross an international border in your luggage or in a parcel, they may be subject to import regulations on food and additional duty bureaucracy. Check whether the items you need are available in a shop mailing the items domestically (many net shops hide their true location, pretending to be domestic).

## Stay safe

Pests can poison or infect pets.
Cars and other transport often get very hot, especially when left parked in sunshine. Have enough water, never leave the pet alone in your car even for a short shop trip without making sure the temperature will stay manageable, and think of ways to handle the problem (wet towels?). A shopping tour with a pet left in the car can be lethal, also in quite cool climates, like in the Nordic countries.
Thefts of pets do occur, but the main threat is probably the traffic. Also other dogs, wild predators, snakes and rat poison can be dangers. Keep the pet close to you and be careful about what it is allowed to explore.

## Respect

Not all lodgings accept pets, and those that do might not accept pets in all rooms. Tell about your pet when booking.
Likewise, in some countries dogs are frequent guests in pubs and shops, while they are unthinkable in others, and in some countries this varies by site. Service dogs may be accepted where other dogs are not.
Don't let your pet chase (or prey on) local wildlife or livestock. Just scaring birds away can be fatal for the young.
Some people are afraid of pets (e.g. dogs, which are regarded unclean in some cultures), and people may be allergic to your pet. Don't let your pet go near people who don't appreciate it, and don't take them to lodgings or homes without making sure that your host (and other guests) doesn't mind.

## Countries
### Argentina

This nation has some requirements that you and your pet have to fulfill, in order to arrive:
* First of all, you need a CVI (Certificado Veterinario Internacional), which has to be signed by the authority of your nation where you are, which has the following requirements:
** Your pet has pass a health test, in order to get a "Health certificate" on the go in 10 days in advance.
** Also, it needs to have been applied a rabies vaccine.
** And the last but not least, a deworming 15 days in advance.
Keep in mind that you can go with an "international" Pet passport of your nation, instead of a CVI, as long as it has all the requirements previously mentioned.

#### Autonomous city of Buenos Aires

Generally not Pet-Friendly; According to the local law, pets are not allowed in stores that produce food and that "attend the public". Also not allowed on most of parks and squares.
There are some dog-friendly malls and stores, such as Distrito Arcos, located in Paraguay 4979 street.
Small pets (both dogs and cats) on SUBTE (Metro) are allowed by an adult Sundays and non-workable days after 13 pm.

#### Buenos Aires province

Most of municipalities does not allow pets on beaches and/or stores; For example, Mar del Plata doesn't allow them (except in one resort located in Playas del Blacón, YES Playa Canina, at the south of the city), and the same for Villa Gesell.
Bahia Blanca municipality decided to let allow store owners to allow pets, by an ordinance, approved in 2022 (they can decided to allow both dogs and cats).

##### Mar del Plata

Since 2023, the touristic city, Mar del Plata has changed the rules for pet oweners, but forbidding the access to food elaboration rooms. However, you can access with it to the bar, even a restaurant. Some dog-friendly places are:
* YES Playa Canina: Previously mentioned resort. There are games, food for dogs, and you can even surf with them.
* No Coffe No Prana: It is a pet and bike-friendly café for everyone. There are argentinian specialities and good coffee. There is backyard that serves water for you animal.
* ATC :Acronym for "Aquí tomamos café". There are a lot of sweet things, and you can drink good juice. It has a "retro-design" decoration. There is an intern backyard, suitable for pets.
* Helter Beer Garden:It is a brewery that was created specifically for pets. You can drink many types of drinks (generally typical of Argentina), and at a good tourist price.
* Berlín: It's another coffee shop, but it has a more modern style. Good for going in a group.
* Proyecto Bar: It is a coffee bar, which has a pet park for all types of pets. Be careful, they only allow small-sized pets.
* Torombolo: It is a sandwich bar where there is a "retro" style like the one mentioned above. According to them: "Customers come with all kinds of dog sizes because we have more than 15 tables outside and it is normal that at least five are always with pets."
* Puerto de Palos: This is a good seafood restaurant, suitable for all types of pets, located in a gallery.
* Hotel Saint Jeanne: Although the hotel does NOT allow pets, the food service does.It offers an outdoor, covered and heated gallery where pets are allowed.
* Hotel Sheraton/Sheraton Hotel: This high-class hotel only allows pets up to 15 kilos. For this, an additional fee of 50 dollars plus VAT must be paid during the stay. As for the rules of coexistence, they must always be on a leash, and they cannot remain in spaces where there is food and drink. Pets are allowed in the rooms and in the hotel garden.

#### Santa Fe

The Rosario city (the largest one of the province), is the unique that allows pets on bus (despite they can only go on a carrier).

#### The rest of the country

Generally not Pet-friendly, specially in National parks. Also, they can not got on coach (only the guide dogs are allowed (according to the law)).
Also pets are not welcome on buses in all the country (with the exception of Rosario city).

### China

In general, China is not a dog- or pet-friendly country.
Imported pets must be micro-chipped and have a proof of rabies vaccination within 1 year and quarantine certification, and each visitors may only import one pet. Quarantine for pets that are imported from the following countries/regions, or passing rabies antibody requirement certified by specified laboratories, may be waived after they passed inspection conducted in port of entry.
* Australia
* Cyprus
* Fiji
* French Polynesia
* Guam
* Hawaii
* Hong Kong
* Iceland
* Ireland
* Jamaica
* Liechtenstein
* Macau
* Portugal
* Singapore
* Sweden
* Switzerland
* New Zealand
* United Kingdom
In other cases, your pet will undergo 30 days of quarantine. Those who bring pets which require quarantine may only use a limited number of ports of entry, mostly located in Beijing (Beijing Capital International Airport, Beijing West Station), Shanghai (Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, Shanghai Station, Port of Shanghai) and Urumqi (Urumqi Diwopu International Airport). Failure to comply with import regulations may lead to rejection or euthanasia.
Most major cities have a list of forbidden dog breeds, which may include breeds deemed to be tame, while in other places, forbidden dogs are based on their size. Any violation will result in immediate confiscation or killing. In most extreme cases, enforcement personnel can break into your residence in order to confiscate your dog.
Most public transportation forbid pets, including dogs, and in some cases, even service dogs are forbidden. Major cities will require a dog license, and may regulate the time period for dog walking. In rural China, dogs traditionally roam free; however, dog poisoning or intentional harming of free-roaming dogs are common, due to fear of violent dogs. Additionally, there are also cases in which illegal vendors catch/poison free roaming dogs and sell them for meat.
Public perceptions on dogs are polarized. Although there is a considerable voice for dogs and animal rights, by virtue of the bad behavior of some dog owners and aggressive dogs, there is also strong anti-dog sentiment that calls for the strict regulation or even total ban of pet dogs.
Lastly, as rabies and other animal diseases are prevalent in China, you may encounter difficulty in bringing your pet back to your home country. For short-term visits, consider leaving your pet in the temporary care of others.

### Finland

Most import regulations are coordinated through EU. Present terms can be checked through Evira$^{[deadlink]}$.
Approved treatment against rabies and Echinococcus multilocularis (tapeworm; except when coming directly from Norway, UK, Ireland or Malta) beforehand is required for dogs and some other animals. Check the details. Microship and passport are required, with some exceptions for older dogs.
You should arrive together with your pet (possibly with the pet in the hold of the same plane). Coming with more than five pets is regarded as commercial import.
From outside EU/EEA you must come via one of a specific set of border control points (which includes those normally relevant, but check before booking) and declare the pet at customs.
Dog guides (and assistance and hearing dogs) are accepted most anywhere, as required by law, including in shops and restaurants.
Dogs must be on leash all the time with few exceptions (fenced yards, working dogs, in season with permission of hunting rights owner etc.). There are havens where dogs can play without leash in most bigger towns. Many dog owners let their dogs run free also when not allowed, in areas they feel are secure. Be careful if following their example, especially not to let the dog disturb wildlife (the dog not chasing wildlife is not enough). In national parks and other protected areas, in areas with nesting birds, in reindeer husbandry areas etc. keeping the dog in leash and on the trail is especially important.
Take care of the litter in areas where it might disturb somebody (i.e., except off path in the wilderness).
Pets are usually not allowed in restaurants, shops and the like, although this is now up to the business. They are allowed in some hotels (check in advance, and tell about your pet at booking).
Pets are allowed in buses and on trains. On trains, there is often a separate compartment for travellers with pets, with some seats for those with large dogs, having plenty of legroom. Pets other than dogs must be in their cage. For trains from Russia there are additional restrictions.
Dog owners are responsible for any damage caused by their pets, regardless of intention or carefulness (carelessness may in addition be a criminal offence).

### Germany

Dog friendly country. No issues taking a well behaved dog into a restaurant; you can often see them lying under tables. Many, but not all, hotels will allow pets (check when booking) but expect to pay an extra €15 cleaning fee.
Animals must be vaccinated at least one month before entering Germany, see BMELV $^{[deadlink]}$. Resident dogs need to be registered with the local council and licence tags worn. Occasional spot checks are made and fines given, so, if you are not resident in Germany, make sure you have some identification handy.
Although there are plenty of places to let your dog have a run, be sensible. Dogs must be on a leash in nature protection areas (marked by a green bordered triangular white sign with a picture of an eagle on it). Hunters have the right to shoot dogs that are off the lead if they (rather than you) feel you are not controlling your dog adequately.
Lufthansa will allow small dogs and cats in a travel cage as carry on luggage but larger dogs must go in the hold.
Deutsche Bahn offers a child-rate fare for all dogs that are too big to be stored in a cage as "luggage".

### Hong Kong

Dogs older than 5 months must be licensed. You can bring your dog to any AFCD's animal management centres, registered vets or offices of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to apply for a dog license, which is valid for 3 years. The fee is HK$80 for AFCD's licensing service. Failure of licensing your dogs risks a fine of HK$10,000.
All dogs must be either leashed or otherwise under the owner's control in public places. Large dogs heavier than 20 kg must be held on a leash not exceeding 2 m in public places, except in country parks. There are clear notices in exits of country parks reminding dog owners of this. Failure to leash a large dog risks a fine of HK$25000 and imprisonment of 3 months.
The AFCD regularly hold examinations for large dogs, which if passed, will exempt your dog from being leashed. See information about the examination at pets.gov.hk.
Transportation can be a serious hassle, as both the MTR and public bus services don't allow most pets on board by law. Taxis are the only feasible solution if you don't rent a car, and they charge HK$5 for each animal.
Most Hong Kong residences prohibit the ownership of dogs. Check with your landlord if you intend to rent a flat. Bringing dogs (except guide dogs) into restaurants is also illegal under Hong Kong law, even if the restaurant itself allows. Offenders may face a maximum fine of HK$10,000 and imprisonment of 3 months.

#### Dog and cat importation

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) is in charge of regulation of importation and exportation of animals. With respect to the local situation of rabies, the AFCD categorizes countries into three groups, which can be viewed here.
The first step to import your dog/cat is to apply for an importation permit:
* Group 1 countries/places: Fill in Form AF240 (Application form for animal importation special permit)
* Group 2 countries/places: Fill in Form AF240, and arrange for rabies vaccination.
* Group 3 countries/places (excluding Mainland China): Fill in Form AF240, PC100 (Animal quarantine center booking form), and arrange for all vaccinations as stated at here.
* Group 3 countries/places (Mainland China): Same as other Group 3 locations, except Form AF301 should be filled in instead of AF240. No permit fee is required for importing animals from Mainland China.
A sum of HK$432 (HK$102 for each additional dog/cat) in banker's draft, and a copy of your passport should be sent along with the Form AF240 to the following address:
    Permit & Certification Section (Counter No. 10), Import & Export Division, 5/F,
    Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices,
    303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
The permit should be sent by mail, and you should prepare for an animal health certificate and residence certificate issued in 14 days before exportation. Appropriate vaccination are also required. Their copies should be sent to the previous address for verification.
Before 24 hours of the estimated arrival of the animal, you should notify the AFCD by dialing ☏ +852-2182-1001 (press 2).
Animals from Group 1 and 2 countries/places are generally free from quarantine, and can be collected on spot with necessary documents, while those from Group 3 countries/places will undergo a mandatory quarantine of at least 4 months. The daily fee for dog and cat quarantine are respectively HK$90 and HK$46 per day.
Hong Kong law prohibits the importation of pit bull terriers, Japanese tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Braziliero and crossbred of any aforementioned breeds. In addition, puppies and kittens less than 5 months, dogs and cats with a duration of pregnancy more than 4 weeks, Bengal cats and any cats of their crossbreds below 5th generations are also prohibited from importation.

#### Bird importation

Birds from a number of countries are prohibited from importation due to avian flu. The list can be found here.
Similar to the procedure for dog/cat importation, a filled-in Form AF420 along with your passport copy and a sum of HK$344 should be sent to the following address:
    Permit & Certification Section (Counter No. 10), Import & Export Division, 5/F,
    Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices,
    303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
The permit will be sent by mail, and you should arrange for health inspection as directed in the permit made by a vet from your country 5 days before exportation. The bird will also be quarantined for a few days for inspection and sample taking.

### Iceland

Bringing pets to Iceland is highly restricted. Upon passing customs, you will encounter a non-welcoming sign (for your pet) instructing travelers to "Animals are not admited, please report them". However, it is possible to bring pets into Iceland with a permit from MAST (Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority). Below are key details regarding pet importation:
Dogs and cats can only be imported from approved exporting countries, which are classified into two categories based on rabies status:
* Category 1 (Rabies-free countries):
       Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway (excluding Svalbard), Portugal, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom.
* Category 2 (Countries with controlled rabies):
       Bosnia-Herzegovina, Canada, Greenland, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Taiwan, Turkey, USA.
If the country you wish to import from is not listed, you may apply to MAST for an assessment to determine its eligibility. The list is updated twice a year.

#### Exceptions for non-approved countries

MAST may authorize pet importation from a non-approved country under these conditions:
* The pet has been owned and cared for by the importer in the country of export for at least six months.
* The importer is a resident of that country and is permanently relocating to Iceland with the pet.
* Ownership and residency must be verified with supporting documents.
* The pet must meet all health requirements for Category 2 countries, including vaccination against canine influenza.

#### Common reasons for import rejection

Applications may be declined due to:
* Incomplete health certificates (all fields must be filled).
* Missing health certificates or laboratory reports.
* Vaccinations done less than 14 days before import.
* Rabies titer tests done less than 30 days after vaccination.
* Rabies titer levels below 0.5 IU/ml.
* For Category 2 countries: Rabies titer test conducted less than 90 days before import.
* Incorrect vaccination protocols (e.g., leptospirosis vaccination issues).
* Laboratory reports with:
** Positive results for Brucella, Leishmania, or Angiostrongylus vasorum.
* Missing sampling dates and/or microchip numbers.
* Reports not in English.
* Use of incorrect parasite treatments that do not meet Icelandic requirements.
* Submitting paperwork less than 5 days before import or later than 12:00 on the previous Friday.
* Arrival outside of approved hours/dates.
For more information and specific application forms, refer to MAST's official guidelines. Remember that Keflavik airport is the only authorized, and all cats and dogs must undergo a minimum of 14 days in the following qurantine stations:
* Einangrunarstöðin í Reykjanesbæ - Tel.no. +354 421 6949 / +354 893 6949
* Mósel / Allir hundar ehf. - Tel. no. +354 868 3360
Also, from April 2024, you are no longer permitted to transport dogs and cats to Iceland in aircraft passenger compartments. Microchip must be ISO compliant. All that said, if you plan to just to "travel," consider leaving your pet at the kennel closest to your home.

### Netherlands

Dogs allowed in many hotels, usually with a small fee. Dogs are not allowed on some beaches, but away from the central resorts there are areas where they are allowed to run free.

### New Zealand

Entry for pets into New Zealand is managed by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). New Zealand is free of many of the more serious diseases that pets may carry, such as rabies, heartworm and most ticks, and there are strict there are biosecurity restrictions to ensure that this remains the case. Importing cats and dogs is relatively straightforward, but for other pets it can be a bureaucratic nightmare. Use of a pet exporter is highly recommended. A guide to importation of pets can be accessed on the MPI Biosecurity website$^{[deadlink]}$.
* Aero Pets, ☏ +64 9 266 0258. Monday to Friday 9AM-5PM. Registered Pet Exporters who can arrange pet transport from New Zealand to another country.
Dogs over 3 months old must be microchipped and must be registered with the local city or district council in which they usually reside. There is no microchipping or registration requirements for cats.

### Singapore

Akitas, Boerboes, Dogos Argentinos, Filas Brasileiros, Neapolitan Mastiffs, Pit Bulls (including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Bull Dog) and Tosas - together with crosses of all these breeds - are banned from Singapore.
* SKC website
Dogs are required by law to be leashed in public places.
Singapore is free from canine diseases, such as rabies, that can threaten humans, so all dogs must be implanted with a microchip matching their veterinary papers.
Unless the cat or dog is coming from Australia, Cayman Islands, Denmark, Guam, Hawaii, Hong Kong, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, or the UK UK $^{[deadlink]}$, it must be rabies quarantined at the importer's expense for at least 30 days after arrival and an import licence obtained at least two weeks before the date of import from the
* City Veterinary Centre, 25 Peck Seah St, ☏ +65 6227 0670, fax: +65 6227 6305. S$50 per animal.
Only one dog (which must be of an allowed breed) and no more than 2 cats are allowed in a public Housing Development Board (HDB) flat without permission. Anything more requires the HDB's permission. HDB officers are also allowed to inspect your flat to search for dogs and cats.
Up to three dogs and an unrestricted number of cats are allowed elsewhere.
Some restaurants with outdoor seating may be accommodating. Sentosa Beach requires dogs to be leashed, but there are dog parks that allow dogs to roam leash-free upon payment.
* Tanjong Beach Club, 120 Tanjong Beach Walk, ☏ +65 6270 1355. Tu-Sa 11:00-23:00; Su 11:00-23:59. day bed S$168.
* Bishan Dog Park, 1382 Ang Mo Kio Ave, ☏ +65 6556 1533. 2 large, fully fenced enclosures where dogs of all temperaments and sizes can run free - if the better staff are on duty they will ensure that the larger and more aggressive dogs are segregated from the tiddlers. Owners have to stay outside!

### United States

* Traveling by land with animals, within the mainland United States, can be unexpectedly tricky if you don't have a car. The United States is strongly geared up for car travel, and long distance coach/bus networks, such as Greyhound, do not generally allow non-service animals to travel. Outside urban bus networks, options may be very limited - perhaps only to air (expensive and only suitable for some kinds of travel), rail (if a rail link exists), or car hire (one way or round trip).

### United Kingdom

Get in:
* Until the 1990s, the UK had the toughest animal import regulations in the world. Although the regulations have been subsequently relaxed a little, a "pet passport" scheme allowing animals in from many popular countries without the prohibitive 6 months (yes, 6 months!) quarantine, a pet owner or traveller will still need to ensure their pets have all the appropriate documentation, and that they have met all current regulatory requirements, in advance of travel or entry into the UK.
* Before entering the UK, all pet dogs must be treated for tapeworm. The treatment must be administered by a vet not less than 24 hours and not more than 120 hours (1–5 days) before its scheduled arrival time in the UK. Proof of this and of rabies vaccination dates is required that matches the electronic tag. Check official Defra web site for exact rules as getting the complex set of actions and dates wrong is easy to do and will mean your pet will not be allowed into the country. Also worth checking if your dog is legal in the UK; a handful of breeds such as pitbulls may have issues under 'dangerous dog' legislation.
* By air - animals must be in the plane's hold when entering the UK, and in an official IATA crate. See above for transporting 'check-on' vs. 'cargo' (check-on is almost always preferable if you can). There's a big tip here: in the past the UK was unusual that dogs could only travel via UK airports as cargo. If that's still the law it can be worth it to travel by sea/rail to France, Holland or Ireland, and fly from there as checked baggage; you'll see more and under existing laws could save a lot of money. If you do this you'll have to time your tapeworm treatment carefully or get it in those countries - and remember the hour's time difference between the UK and mainland Europe!
* By sea - pets must stay unaccompanied below deck in the car, or in suitable cages/containers, for the duration. Although there are small caged/fenced areas at the harbours and tunnel terminal for dogs to do their business, it is best to stop for a walk before arriving as they are not pleasant places to be.
Once in:
* Legally dogs must have some kind of tag with the owner's information. For other pets some kind of ID tag is also advisable. "Chipping" a pet is also advised.
* The owner (or person in control) of a pet or animal (such as a dog) is legally responsible for its actions and welfare. Perceived ill-treatment can elicit strong reactions.
* The UK's policy for dogs off the leash seems to broadly be common-sense based: if it's dangerous or the dog may do harm, don't; if it's an (often rural) open space, such as the countryside, woods, and fields, and many parks or (for exceedingly well behaved dogs) even streets, it may be acceptable, but take into consideration, livestock or wildlife that may be present, and any posted notices and byelaws. Farmers and landowners on the other hand can be understandably nervous and reasonably request you keep a dog on-leash regardless, or ask you avoid certain areas, If in doubt, ask or seek local advice first. Risk to the Sheep, horses or livestock are commonly cited concerns, as is the potential for a dog to 'interefere' with wild life (including deer) and game ( rabbit, hares, pheasant, grouse amongst others).
* If your pet and especially a dog, is involved in an accident or serious incident with other road users, certain wildlife, livestock, sheep, or horses, you should report this to the authorities immediately, for legal reasons.
* There can be stiff penalties for litter and fouling, so bring bags and ensure you dog leaves no-trace! Some local authorities will provide disposal bins in parks and other locations, but there is no universal coverage or provision.
* Dogs are usually fine tied up in the street while eating (don't trip anyone over!), and some pubs and outdoor eateries are pet friendly, but dog theft can happen so keep an eye on them.
* Most public transport allows pets to travel free, although sometimes with limits on numbers - this includes virtually all trains, the tube and other metropolitan rail, and public buses. The main exception are certain coach networks such as National Express.
* An excellent holiday tip is to rent a canal narrow boat. There's always a tow path to run along!
* Hotels, B&B and restaurants, with a few exceptions, tend not to be as dog-friendly as in continental Europe. Bringing a dog and children can be a serious disability that is not protected by any laws.

### Uruguay

This country, like other Latin-American countries, has similar requirements on the importation of pets;
You need that your pet have the following requirements:
* Certificado Veterinario Internacional (CVI), signed by your origin's authority. This includes a health test.
* A deworming made 15 days in advance.
* Have a rabies vaccination
* In case of dogs, a treatment against Tenia Echinococcus proof.
* Unlike other countries of The Americas, Uruguay asks for non-resident dogs be identified with a microchip.
Uruguay demands the use of the leash all the time, with a 3 UYU fine. Also a 2 UYU, if you don't take the feces of your dog.

#### Beaches allowed to go with pets

* Montevideo: Forbidden, there might be a 4 UYU fine if you break the rules.
* Rocha: The beaches are signposted with "Apta para mascotas" (plus the other rules that you must follow).
** The Pet-friendly beaches here are Playa del Faro and Playa La Aguada.
* Costa del Este: There are delimited beaches in Canelones and Costa de Oro.
** These includes: Salinas, Atlántida, Parque del Plata and La Floresta.
* Maldonado: There are many Pet-friendly beaches in this department.
** There are: Playa Mansa de Maldonado, Playa Brava de Punta del Este, and Balneario buenos Aires.
** There are another in Piriápolis called La Rambla de los Argentinos.

### Vanuatu

It is all right to have a dog on the beach unless it makes a really big fuss, then someone, maybe a lifeguard, will come, then say to you that your dog isn't allowed. Otherwise dogs are allowed in hotels or restaurants if they aren't wet, or soaked.

## See also

* Animal ethics