Travelling with your dog

Now that travel is becoming more accessible again, many families find it important to have their dog along for the adventure. Here’s my advice for making the experience as smooth as possible, for both you and your dog.

Putting your pet’s health first

It’s essential that you find out about medical requirements, both with regard to the airline and the country you plan to visit. You can request a certificate of good health, which may take some time, and you’ll want to make sure that specific vaccines are up to date. Permanent identification (microchip) is also often required. Even if you take every precaution, some countries will impose a quarantine on your pet upon arrival, so it’s important to be well informed.

Complying with the regulations

On a plane, pets are permitted to travel in the cabin as long as the combined weight of the transport cage or bag and the pet is no more than 10 kg. In addition, the carrier’s soft sides must not exceed the maximum allowable size, which can vary depending on the airline you’re flying on. A dog that exceeds the maximum allowable size will have to travel in the checked baggage compartment, provided it weighs no more than 45 kg (99 lb), including the cage. Although information can vary from one airline to the next, a very large dog could simply be refused.

Other means of transportation

Quebec ferries generally accept dogs, provided they are on leash at all times. However, remember that it’s dangerous to leave an animal in a car with the engine turned off in hot weather. If you leave your vehicle, take your dog with you.

Dogs are not allowed on Quebec cruise ships. In fact, very few cruise ships allow dogs on board. When dogs are permitted, they must remain in the cabin or in a cage in the ship’s kennel.

Preventing your dog’s discomfort

Pets that suffer from motion sickness or travel anxiety can take medication prescribed by a veterinarian. Keep in mind that medication is an important factor when it comes to your pet’s well-being.

Maximizing your pet’s comfort

If you’re able to be with your pet while travelling, your presence will be comforting. If your dog is used to other means of transportation, the adaptation should be relatively smooth.

It is, however, recommended that you get your dog used to the cage that it will be travelling in. Simply leave the cage around the house and place treats in it to encourage your dog to go inside. You can also place bones to gnaw on or the dog’s favourite toys in the cage to help your dog associate it with a positive place.

Lastly, if travel stress is too much for your dog to handle, consider leaving your dog at a kennel or with someone you trust. The dog will very likely have as good a vacation as you!

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