Dogs generally do not need a formal "passport" for domestic travel, but they require specific, extensive documentation for international travel, often referred to as a "pet passport." This includes valid rabies vaccination records, microchip information, and a health certificate endorsed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian.

How do I get a US passport for my dog?

A dog passport is an official document required for international travel with pets. It includes vaccination records, especially rabies, and microchip details. To apply, visit a certified veterinarian who will issue the passport after verifying vaccinations and health status.

How much does a dog passport cost in the US?

It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on your destination's vaccination and testing requirements. How much does a pet passport cost? Costs vary by country and services but generally range from $150–$500 USD for veterinary documents and endorsements.

Do dogs still need a passport?

Do dogs need passports? Whilst not a dog passport as such, the Animal Health Certificate or Export Health Certificate that you can be issued is the only way to get your dog into a foreign country.

Can I buy my dog a seat on a plane?

Yes, some airlines allow you to buy an extra seat for your dog, but it's not the norm, and rules vary; usually, it's for small dogs in carriers that fit on the seat or larger dogs that must stay leashed on the floor, with JSX being a notable exception that lets bigger dogs sit next to you, while many major carriers only permit pets in carriers under the seat in front, even with an extra ticket.

UK / EU End Animal Health Certificates

What are the TSA rules for dogs?

You should maintain control of your pet with a leash and remember to remove the leash when carrying your pet through the metal detector. Animal carriers will undergo a visual and/or physical inspection. Contact the airline to determine your airline's policy on traveling with pets before arriving at the airport.

Can my pet travel without a pet passport?

All pets traveling to and from the United States need a passport. Keep in mind, a “pet passport” in the U.S. refers to the extra documents you need to travel to other countries with your pet.

How do I fly with my dog?

Pets must remain in their carrier underneath the seat in front of you at all times. Airlines may restrict in-cabin pets on certain aircraft or routes, like those we mentioned already, with strict rabies requirements. If you're traveling with a larger dog, they must travel in cargo.

Where do you get pet passports?

It was originally used for pets to enter and re-enter Britain from the EU and other listed countries. Pet passports were taken out of use in the UK for a while, being replaced in 2021 by animal health certificates (AHCs). These are certificates pet owners needed to get from their vet to get their pet over borders.

What does a US pet passport look like?

Appearance. The pet passport itself comes in multiple forms, sometimes a pink A4 sheet, sometimes a small blue booklet. It contains the microchip or tattoo number of the animal, the certification that the animal has had a rabies vaccination, and needs to be signed by an officially approved veterinarian.

Can pets get their own passport?

India does not issue “Indian pet passports.” This is the term typically used when referring to obtaining all the correct documents before traveling. Before entering India, you'll need a health certificate and potentially an import permit for your pet to enter the country.

How long is a dog passport good for?

The Pet Passport is valid for the duration of the pet's life. Each passport is numbered for identification purposes.

What do I need to take my dog out of the country?

As soon as you decide to travel outside the United States with your pet, contact a USDA-accredited veterinarian. They will help you determine your destination country's pet entry requirements and assist you through the process of obtaining a USDA-endorsed health certificate and any other needed paperwork.

What is the pet passport 2025?

Following the announcement by the Prime Minister on 19 May 2025, a new deal between the EU and the UK will include the re-introduction of EU pet passports. This should mean that for travel between the EU and the UK you can apply for a lifelong pet passport, rather than a one-off Animal Health Certificate.

How do dogs travel on planes internationally?

Your pet can travel on the plane with you (either in-cabin, as accompanied baggage, or as cargo). Your pet will be charged accordingly. Some airlines no longer offer this option and some countries do not allow pets to enter the country in-cabin. You can book your pet on a separate flight.

Can my dog cross the border into us?

Your dog will NOT be allowed to enter the U.S. if they are not vaccinated against rabies and have been in a high-risk country for dog rabies in the past 6 months. You must follow CDC's dog importation requirements*, or your dog will not be allowed to enter the United States.

Can I buy my pet a seat on a plane?

Yes, some airlines allow you to buy an extra seat for your dog, but it's not the norm, and rules vary; usually, it's for small dogs in carriers that fit on the seat or larger dogs that must stay leashed on the floor, with JSX being a notable exception that lets bigger dogs sit next to you, while many major carriers only permit pets in carriers under the seat in front, even with an extra ticket.

Can my dog sit with me on the plane?

On the plane

Your pet must stay in their carrier with the door closed, and under your seat at all times.

What if your dog has to pee on a flight?

Line the carrier with an absorbent “puppy potty pad” in case your dog needs to urinate or defecate during travel. Carry extra pads as well as a couple of plastic zip-lock bags, some paper towels, and a few pairs of latex gloves for any necessary cleanup and containment of a mess.

What dogs are not allowed on planes?

We don't accept brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as: Affenpinscher. American Staffordshire Terrier. Boston Terrier.

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