How to Travel Abroad with Your Dog

✈️ Introduction

Moving to another country is a big adventure — and bringing your four-legged best friend along makes it even more special. But unlike a simple trip, leaving Brazil with a dog requires planning, documentation, and attention to the requirements of the destination country. In this article, you’ll learn what is needed to travel with your pet from Brazil to abroad safely and smoothly. 🐕✈️🌍

📋 Mandatory Documents to Leave Brazil with Your Dog

Before anything else, you need to gather the necessary documents. Here are the main requirements:

• International Veterinary Certificate (CVI): Issued free of charge by an official veterinarian from MAPA (Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Supply).

• Rabies serology test (when required): Some countries, like Japan and the European Union, require this test 3 to 6 months in advance.

• Updated vaccination card: Especially the rabies vaccine.

• Identification microchip: In many countries, an ISO 11784/11785 microchip is mandatory.

• Health certificate issued by a registered veterinarian: Valid up to 10 days before travel.

🌍 Requirements Vary by Destination

Each country has its own rules for pet entry. Examples:

• United States: Rabies vaccine and health certificate are sufficient in most states.

• Japan: Strict process requiring a microchip, rabies vaccine, serology test, and prior quarantine.

• Portugal: Requires microchip, rabies vaccine, serology test, and CVI.

• Canada: Similar rules to the U.S., but it’s important to confirm with the airline and government website.

🧭 Always consult the consulate or embassy of the destination country and the official MAPA website.

✈️ Transport: How to Take Your Dog on a Plane

There are two main options:

• In the cabin: Allowed only for small dogs (usually up to 8 kg with the carrier).

• In the cargo hold (as live cargo): For larger dogs, using carriers that comply with IATA regulations.

📦 Carrier requirements: Must be sturdy, well-ventilated, and spacious enough for the dog to stand and turn around.

💡 Tip: Reserve your pet’s spot with the airline in advance. Availability is limited!

🧳 Extra Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Get your dog accustomed to the carrier days or weeks before the flight.

• Avoid feeding your dog hours before the flight to prevent nausea.

• Place a blanket with the owner’s scent inside the carrier to comfort your pet.

• Attach a label with name, phone number, and destination country to the carrier.

• Check if sedation is allowed (some airlines prohibit sedatives).

✅ Final Checklist

✔️ Microchip
✔️ Updated rabies vaccine
✔️ Serology test (if required)
✔️ Health certificate
✔️ CVI issued by MAPA
✔️ IATA-approved carrier
✔️ Confirmed airline reservation

🐕 Conclusion

Traveling with your dog from Brazil to abroad is entirely possible but requires careful planning. With the right documents, prior adaptation, and good veterinary support, this move can be an amazing journey for the whole family — including your four-legged best friend! 🌎🐾