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FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
Have questions about pet transportation, relocation, health certificates, or travel requirements? We created this FAQ section to help pet owners better understand the process before requesting a quote. Since pet travel rules can vary by destination, airline, breed, age, and travel date, our team is here to guide you through the next steps.
Care during layovers depends on the airport. In some cases, staff may only refill water without opening the crate for safety. At major hubs like Frankfurt, Paris, or Amsterdam, specialized animal lounges provide feeding, watering, and exercise under trained staff supervision. Whenever possible, we book direct flights, but if a stopover is needed, we choose pet-friendly airlines with dedicated facilities to ensure your pet’s well-being.
For international travel, your pet needs a health certificate, vaccination records (rabies vaccination must follow microchipping and be administered at least 21 days before travel), any required import permits, and a 15-digit ISO microchip. Requirements vary by country, so consult with us to ensure your pet meets all necessary regulations.
Your pet needs a sturdy, airline-approved crate that’s ventilated, leakproof, and large enough for them to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Gradually acclimate your pet to the crate at home with bedding, toys, and positive reinforcement. Consult us for help with crate selection, sizing, and preparing your pet for travel.
No, sedatives, tranquilizers, and most anti-anxiety drugs are strictly prohibited as they can dangerously affect your pet’s breathing and heart function at high altitudes. Only veterinarian-prescribed, airline-approved medications are allowed, and a prescription must be provided for airline approval. Let us know as soon as possible if your pet will need medication during travel so we can coordinate with the airline.
It is best to start planning as early as possible, especially for international moves. Some destinations require specific vaccinations, microchip timing, blood tests, health certificates, import permits, or waiting periods before a pet can travel. Starting early gives Global Tails enough time to review your destination, explain the process, and help avoid last-minute delays.
Many international destinations require pets to have a compatible microchip before certain vaccines or travel documents are completed. For some countries, the timing of the microchip matters because the rabies vaccine may need to be given after the microchip is placed. Requirements vary by destination, so Global Tails can help review what applies to your pet's trip.
A USDA-endorsed health certificate is an official document completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and endorsed by USDA APHIS when required for travel. It confirms that your pet meets specific health and travel requirements for the destination. Not every move requires the same type of certificate, so the correct process depends on where your pet is traveling.
The CDC Dog Import Form is used for dogs entering or returning to the United States. Requirements depend on where the dog has been during the 6 months before entry into the U.S. Dogs coming from rabies-free or low-risk countries may have different requirements than dogs coming from high-risk countries. Global Tails can help you understand which entry rules may apply to your dog's move.
Snub-nosed breeds, also known as brachycephalic breeds, may face additional airline restrictions because they can be more sensitive to heat, stress, and breathing changes during travel. Each airline has its own rules, and some may limit or decline travel for certain breeds. Global Tails can help review options and recommend a safer travel approach when possible.
After you submit a quote request, Global Tails reviews your pet's information, travel route, timing, and service needs. From there, the team can prepare a personalized recommendation and explain the next steps, including documents, travel options, timeline, and any items you may need to prepare before your pet's move.
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