Cover Photo: Getty Images
Photo: Getty Images
1 / 1
Thinking of having your furry companion with you on your next big trip to Europe? Below, we compile the rules to know ahead of travelling with your pets
Travelling around the world is back on the agenda now that Covid-19 restrictions have eased. While some of us are ready to pack our bags and take off, there is a certain group of people who feel slightly anxious: pet owners, or paw-rents. The separation anxiety that may fall upon both owner and pet is real.
Sometimes, the creeping urge to bring your pet with you to your travel destination is impossible to ignore. But the good news is, pets can partake in the fun too, along with their humans.
Don’t miss: From Crowded Airports to Bag Delays: How to Stay Calm While Travelling in 2022
Before, travelling with pets seemed like a hassle as owners had to scour the Internet to look for pet-friendly airlines. Now, with cohesive and harmonious pet travel guidelines across most airlines and countries, travelling with your pet has never been easier.
The best destination to travel to with your pets? Europe.
Boasting some of the easiest and fastest country-to-country transport, hop from one city to another with your best fur friend.
Take note, travellers from Singapore to Europe may only bring their dog, cat, or ferret with them. Read on for more on what you should know.
Documents required
Arguably the most stressful part of pet travel, compiling the documents and requirements before securing a position for your pet on the plane requires time.
European pet passport
All pets travelling to and within Europe must hold a European pet passport (yes, how very adorable). The passport will contain details of your pet, including its microchip or tattoo code, rabies vaccination record, its owner's contact details, and the vet who issued the passport. The European pet passport may be obtained from any authorised vet. So long as your pet's rabies vaccination is up to date, the pet passport is valid for life.
European Union (EU) animal health certificate
The animal health certificate contains information about your pet’s identity, health, and rabies vaccinations. Animals travelling from a non-EU country must have an animal health certificate issued by an official vet in the country of departure at least 10 days before your pet arrives in Europe.
Before your flight
Rabies vaccination
Pets travelling from Singapore to Europe must be vaccinated against rabies by an authorised vet. In addition, for the vaccination to be valid, pets must be at least 12 weeks old and microchipped. Your pet must wait at least 21 days after the vaccination protocol for it to be given the green light to travel. Pets less than 12 weeks old without rabies vaccination may travel to Austria, Czechia, Denmark, and Switzerland. Any further vaccinations your pet receives must be given before the validity period of the previous one expires.
Treating the tapeworm Echinococcus
Dogs travelling to Finland, Ireland, Malta, Norway, or Northern Ireland must be treated against the tapeworm Echinococcus between 24 and 120 hours before the stipulated plane departure time.
Pet container requirements
Depending on the airlines you choose to travel with, pets can either be checked in as baggage or cargo. All pets are required to be in a container throughout the duration of travel. Pets travelling as checked baggage must not exceed the combined weight of itself and the container at 32kg. Before flying with your pet, consult your vet about food, water, and medication. Owners should also familiarise their pets with its crate or carrier.
During the flight
Above Photo: Getty Images
Photo: Getty Images
1 / 1
Some pet-friendly airlines include Singapore Airlines, Qantas Airlines, Emirates Airlines, and Cathay Pacific.
Owners with pets in carriers will usually be asked to place the carriers under the seat in front. Owners are strictly not allowed to bring their pets out of their carriers throughout the duration of the flight.
Owners should also ensure their pet has sufficient water. Comfort is key to a happy pet on board.
Pro tip: line the carrier with blankets and your pet's favourite toys. Some owners typically make their pets put on diapers throughout the flight.
After the flight
1 / 1
If your pet is not travelling with you in the cabin, just make your way to the airline’s specified cargo location once you pick up your own luggage.
According to airlines, pets are usually available for collection two hours after arrival. Pets must be picked up within four hours or they will be transferred to a local veterinarian or boarding facility.
Once you are reunited with your fur friend, remember to take it for a walk right away to stretch its legs, especially after a long flight. And breathe easy, you’ve both arrived safe and sound.
NOW READ
5 Best Hotels to Board Your Pet When You Travel
These Are The Best First Class Airline Suites That Money Can Buy
Meow High Club: Meet The Cat Ambassadors Of Europe's Five Star Hotels
