Travelling to another country is exciting. However, it can also be stressful, especially when you have a pet. Pets cannot just get a passport and get on a plane. There are rules, documents, and health checks that must be done before they can travel.
Some pet owners do not realise how complicated it can be until they start the process. If you are planning to take your pet across borders, you must be prepared for the challenges ahead. In this post, we will highlight the biggest challenges you have to face when moving your pets cross-border.
Cross-Border Pet Travel Challenges and Their Solutions
Complex Paperwork
Each country has different rules for bringing in pets. Some require microchipping, vaccinations, and health certificates. Meanwhile, some may have strict quarantine rules. For example, your pet needs to be vaccinated for rabies at least 21 days before travelling from France to the UK.
You can deal with this challenge by starting to prepare early. You can research the pet import laws of your destination country. You can also visit your pet doctor to get the necessary vaccinations and documents. The best thing you can do is to hire a pet taxi.
When you opt for the pet taxi France to UK service, you don’t have to worry about legal requirements. Service providers will assist you in completing the paperwork.
Stressful Travel Experience
Travelling can be very stressful for pets, especially if they are not used to long journeys. Loud noises, unfamiliar places, and being separated from their owners can make them anxious. Some pets refuse to eat or drink due to stress, which can lead to health problems.
You can help your pet get used to travelling by taking them on short trips before the big journey. Try to use a comfortable carrier that feels like home. Moreover, you should pack their favourite blanket or toy to keep them calm. Above all, you should opt for a comfortable travel mode for them.
Transport Restrictions
Many transport companies have strict pet policies. Some do not allow certain breeds or have temperature limits for pet travel. Some may require pets to travel in the cargo hold, which can be dangerous in extreme weather. Finding a suitable transport service can be a big challenge.
The best way to deal with this problem is to opt for dedicated pet transport services. You can research online to find pet taxi service providers near you. Hiring these services will ensure your pets remain comfortable throughout the journey.
Expensive Travel Costs
Cross-border pet travel is not affordable. The cost of flights, pet passports, vet visits, and quarantine fees can add up quickly. You can be surprised by how expensive the process is, especially for long-distance travel.
You can tackle this challenge by planning your budget in advance. The best thing you can do is to opt for a pet taxi. Make sure you compare multiple options to find which transport company is more affordable. However, you shouldn’t rely on comparing prices only. You should also compare the services they offer to make an informed decision.
Risk of Illness or Injury
Long journeys, new environments, and changes in food can make your pets sick. Motion sickness, dehydration, and anxiety-related issues are common in travelling pets. In some cases, pets can even get injured if not transported properly.
You should take your pet for a full health check-up before travelling. Make sure you pack a pet first-aid kit and bring their regular food to avoid stomach issues. Apart from that, pay special attention to keeping them hydrated throughout the journey.
You need to be very careful when choosing a travel crate. It should be safe, secure, and well-ventilated to prevent injuries.
Unexpected Delays or Cancellations
These are among the biggest issues you can face when moving pets cross-border. You may have to deal with delays due to paperwork and unexpected problems. Sometimes, pets may have to wait in an airport or holding area for hours, which can be uncomfortable.
You can opt for a taxi to avoid delays and waiting for several hours. For example, you can opt for a pet taxi UK to France to enjoy door-to-door services. Drivers will pick up your pet from the decided location and drop it off at your destination.
Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodation
Not all hotels and rental properties accept pets. Some have size or breed restrictions. Meanwhile, others charge high pet fees. Finding a comfortable and affordable place to stay with your pet can be a challenge.
You should look for pet-friendly hotels and rentals in advance to deal with this challenge. You can search online and filter pet-friendly options to make the whole process more convenient. You should always check the hotel’s pet policy before booking.
Opting for a pet taxi is the best way to deal with all these challenges. It ensures that your furry fellows travel in a specialised vehicle that is comfortable and pet-friendly.
