Could Diseases or Parasites Travel, Too?
When pets travel, germs and parasites can travel, too!
Your pet may come into contact with diseases or parasites while traveling. Some pets may carry germs or parasites without looking sick.
Whether you travel by car, plane, or another way, there are simple steps you can take to help protect your pet, other animals, and the places you visit.
🩺 1. VISIT YOUR VETERINARIAN
Before your trip, schedule a checkup.
Ask your veterinarian about:
- Your pet's health and vaccines.
- Flea, tick, and parasite prevention.
- Diseases that may be present where you're going.
🐕 2. CHECK YOUR PET FOR SIGNS OF ILLNESS
Look for changes in your pet's health.
Watch for:
- Coughing or sneezing.
- Vomiting or diarrhea.
- Wounds, sores, or unusual skin changes.
- Fleas, ticks, or other parasites.
If your pet seems sick, contact your veterinarian before traveling.
🌎 3. KNOW WHERE YOU'RE GOING
Different places may have different disease risks and travel rules.
Before leaving:
- Check the animal-entry rules for your destination.
- Ask your veterinarian about local disease risks.
- Find out whether your pet needs a health certificate, tests, or other documents.
🧼 4. KEEP YOUR PET SAFE DURING TRAVEL
Take steps to lower the risk of spreading germs.
- Avoid contact with sick animals.
- Keep your pet's carrier and supplies clean.
- Wash your hands after cleaning up pet waste.
- Avoid sharing food and water bowls with unfamiliar animals.
🏡 5. WATCH YOUR PET AFTER ARRIVAL
Keep checking your pet's health after the trip.
- Watch for signs of illness or parasites.
- Contact a veterinarian if your pet becomes sick.
- Tell the veterinarian where your pet has traveled.
Some signs of illness may not appear until after the trip.
________________________________________
💙 WHY DOES THIS MATTER?
Protect your pet. Protect other animals. Protect the places you visit.
These simple steps help lower the risk of spreading diseases and parasites.
This is called BIOSECURITY READINESS—one of the Five Non-Negotiables of Pet Travel Preparation.
________________________________________
✈️ PLANNING TO TRAVEL WITH YOUR PET?
Pet travel involves more than obtaining a health certificate.
Whether you're traveling domestically or internationally, preparing your pet takes planning.
When Pets Fly® offers personalized pet travel consultations to help you understand your pet's travel needs, destination requirements, and important preparation steps.
🐾 Schedule Your Pet Travel Consultation
Visit whenpets.com to explore our services and schedule a consultation.
________________________________________
Safe Pet Travel Starts With Us.
Dr. Nelva J. Bryant, DVM, MPH
CEO/Founder, When Pets Fly®
Veterinary Air-Travel Medicine™
whenpets.com
This guide provides general education. Your veterinarian can help you understand the health risks and requirements for your pet's specific journey. A pet travel consultation does not replace a veterinary examination or required health certification.