How To Keep Your Dog Healthy While Travelling Abroad

Travelling internationally with your dog has been one of the most unexpectedly rewarding parts of my adventures. There's just something about sharing sunsets, hiking trails, or lazy afternoons at a café with your pup by your side that makes it all feel even more special.

But if there's one thing I've learned, it's this: your dog's well-being needs as much planning as your own.

New time zones, strange smells, different food – travel can be just as overwhelming for dogs as it is for us. I've seen firsthand how routine changes can stress them out (just like it does to me on long travel days). But with a bit of prep and a few dog-savvy habits, it's absolutely possible to keep them healthy and happy while you explore the world together.

A lot of the self-care tips I've shared from my own experiences – actually apply to pets too. Staying hydrated, building in downtime, keeping things familiar when everything else feels new… it all matters.

And just like I wouldn't travel without solid travel insurance, having a plan for your dog's health is just as essential.

So let's dive in – here's how to make sure your pup stays healthy, calm, and tail-waggingly happy on your next international adventure.

Before You Go: The Dog Travel Health Checklist

Whether you're flying across the pond or jetting off to another continent, prepping your dog for international travel takes more than just booking a ticket. It starts weeks – or even months – in advance. Here's what you'll need to sort out before takeoff:

1. Schedule a Pre-Travel Vet Visit

Book a health check with your vet at least a month in advance. Make sure:

• All core vaccinations (like rabies, distemper, and parvovirus) are current
• You get an official health certificate signed by your vet (required by most countries within 7–10 days of entry)
• You ask about tick/flea/heartworm prevention and travel-safe sedatives or calming aids, if needed
• Your dog is fit to fly, especially if they're snub-nosed breeds (some airlines have restrictions)

2. Research Country-Specific Pet Import Rules

Every destination has its own set of regulations—some stricter than others. Common requirements include:

• Mandatory quarantine upon arrival (some are up to 30 days)
• Microchipping with an ISO-compliant chip
• Rabies titer tests, especially for countries like Japan, Australia, and the UK
• Import permits or advanced documentation (often needed for pets entering from “high-risk” countries).

3. Prep All Necessary ID and Documentation

Aside from a microchip, make sure your dog wears a collar with a tag that has:

• Your name and local number
• Your dog's name
• A temporary address abroad (if possible)

Also carry:

• Printed copies of vet records, vaccination certificates, and prescriptions
• A photo of your dog in case they go missing
• Proof of ownership (especially important if your dog is a rescue or adopted abroad)

4. Crate Train Early

If your pup is flying in a crate (in-cabin or as cargo), help them adjust in advance:

• Use positive reinforcement to associate the crate with safety
• Let them nap or eat inside it at home
• Start with short stints inside, gradually building up time

Look for IATA-approved crates with proper ventilation and room for your dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Some airlines even inspect crates at check-in, so don't skimp here.

What to Pack in Your Dog's Travel Kit

Bring more than just the basics – you never know what's available (or overpriced) at your destination:

• Medications and supplements: Pack enough for the whole trip, plus a little extra
• Travel-friendly food and water bowls: Collapsible silicone bowls save space
• Familiar blanket or toy: Comfort items help reduce travel anxiety
• Waste bags, grooming wipes, and towels: Always handy for unexpected messes
• Enough food for a few days: In case your preferred brand is unavailable or switching too quickly causes stomach issues
• eSIM and WiFi access: Having mobile data makes it easier to locate nearby vets, especially an international eSIM. A Pet-friendly accommodation, or emergency care on the go are also essentials. 

Supporting Your Dog's Health on the Go

Once you land, your pup's world turns upside down – in the best way. But travel can affect digestion and overall wellness. One of the easiest ways to support your dog's gut health while on the move is to add increased digestive enzymes for dogs into their daily routine.

Dogs may experience digestive upset while travelling for a variety of reasons:

• Changes in diet or water
• Exposure to new bacteria
• Disrupted meal times
• Elevated stress levels

Digestive enzymes and prebiotics can help maintain a balanced gut, reduce bloating or gas, and keep stool quality consistent.

Probiotic supplements can also be a smart addition to your travel kit, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach.

In addition to supplementing, follow these guidelines to help support your pup's digestive and overall health:

• Stick to their regular food as much as possible
• Avoid sharing human food – even those café croissants
• Use bottled or filtered water
• Keep a regular feeding schedule

Hygiene and Safety Wherever You Roam

Healthy dogs are clean dogs, especially when they're exploring new terrain. Sand, dust, new plants, and even local pests can pose risks. Here's how to stay on top of hygiene and avoid preventable issues:

• Wipe paws daily
• Check for fleas or parasites
• Bring pet-safe cleaning supplies
• Maintain oral care
• Monitor for signs of illness

Exploring new environments can also aggravate allergies. Discover a natural way to stop your dog scratching themselves by managing allergens and skin irritations effectively. 

Making Travel Comfortable and Fun

Keeping your dog healthy on the road isn't just about avoiding illness – it's about making sure they feel safe, happy, and comfortable in every new environment. Whether you're flying across borders or heading out on a long road trip, your pup's emotional well-being matters just as much as their physical health.

Here's how to make their travel experience smoother, more enjoyable, and full of tail wags along the way.

Offer Plenty of Breaks and Exercise: New environments are stimulating, but also tiring. Regular walks and playtime help relieve stress.

Create a Cosy, Safe Space: Whether you're staying in a hotel, Airbnb, or camper van, give your dog a designated “den” to relax in.

Maintain Routines: Feed, walk, and rest at times similar to your home schedule. Familiar rhythms create a sense of security.

Watch Body Language: Some dogs are natural adventurers, others are homebodies. If your pup seems overwhelmed, give them downtime.

Travel Smart, Wag Hard

Travelling internationally with your dog can be one of the most memorable experiences you share—but it does take some thoughtful prep to keep things running smoothly. A little planning upfront can prevent a lot of stress later, for both you and your pup.

Here are a few key things to keep in mind:

Keep your dog's health records easily accessible – You may need proof of vaccinations or vet visits when crossing borders, checking into accommodation, or even in emergencies.

Stick to familiar food and clean, filtered water – A sudden change in diet or drinking water can upset your dog's stomach fast. Bring enough of their usual food, or gradually transition if you're switching brands.

Support their digestion with pet-safe probiotics or supplements – Travel can mess with your dog's gut just like it can with yours. Look into supplements that help with stress and digestion while on the move.

Keep comfort and routine in mind – Whether it's their favourite blanket, a well-worn toy, or sticking to regular meal and walk times, familiar things help your dog feel grounded, even in new surroundings.

The goal? A trip where your dog feels as safe, happy, and excited as you do. With the right prep, you won't just be travelling—you'll be making memories, one paw-print at a time.

With a little prep and a whole lot of love, your pup can thrive on the road – just like you. When I was dog-sitting in Bolivia, I remember how important it was to keep things consistent: familiar walks, their usual food, a bit of playtime, and loads of cuddles.

Even in a totally new environment, those little routines made all the difference. It reminded me that travel doesn't have to mean chaos – for you or your dog. So grab that leash, pack the snacks (for both of you), and get out there. The world's a better place when you explore it together.