Traveling internationally with a small dog can be smooth and stress-free—if you prepare the essentials in the right order. This quick guide shares practical tips for international travel with a dog, based on real-life preparation steps: paperwork, vet visits, airline rules, and what to pack.

1) Start with timing and regulations
Every country (and sometimes each transit point) has its own entry requirements. Begin by checking: vaccination validity, dog health certificate rules, and whether you need additional endorsements (for example, CFIA endorsement in Canada). Build your timeline backwards from your flight date.

2) Rabies vaccination and titer test
For many destinations, rabies vaccination is mandatory, and some routes require a rabies antibody titer test. Ask your veterinarian about timing: the test often needs planning weeks in advance. Keep digital and paper copies of all results.

3) Microchip and document consistency
Make sure your dog’s microchip number is correctly listed on all documents. Names must match your passport/booking where required. In international travel, consistency prevents delays.

4) Airline rules: reserve PETC early
If you plan airline pet in cabin (PETC), reserve it as early as possible. Airlines limit the number of in-cabin pets per flight segment. Call support and ask them to confirm the allowance and availability for each leg of the itinerary.

5) Choose the Right Carrier — Size Matters

Airlines evaluate the carrier, not the dog’s body size.
This is one of the most important — and often misunderstood — rules of pet travel.

The carrier must fit under the seat, comply with airline regulations, and allow your dog to turn around and lie down comfortably during the flight. Soft carriers are usually preferred, as they adapt better to cabin space while providing comfort and flexibility.

At MiMOZA Pet Boutique, we designed an ideal travel carrier for small companion dogs, based on real international travel experience.
Our carrier is created with care for safe, calm, and comfortable flights:

• Designed to meet airline cabin requirements
• Soft, breathable, and secure
• Comfortable for long journeys
• Suitable for in-cabin travel with small pets

Your pet’s comfort in the air is not a luxury — it’s a necessity.
A well-chosen carrier reduces stress, supports calm behavior, and makes the journey easier for both the pet and the owner.

6) Pack a calm “flight kit”
For travel with a small dog, pack: pee pads, wipes, collapsible bowl, a small water bottle, light treats, and a familiar blanket with a home scent. Keep everything easy to access.

7) Reduce stress in advance
Practice carrier time at home. Short daily sessions help your dog associate the carrier with safety. Calm routines matter more than last-minute “training.”

Final tip: create one folder with all originals and one folder with copies (paper + phone). A clear system lowers stress for both you and your dog.

If you’re planning international travel with a dog soon, save this checklist and follow it step by step—your future self will thank you.

MiMOZA Pet Boutique cares about safe and mindful travel — because your pet deserves comfort at every step of the journey.