Compare the Market has commissioned new research into the most pet-friendly countries and airlines around the globe.
Top Pet-Friendly Airlines
In terms of airlines, the ones with the most pet-friendly policies include:
Air France - Air France allows travelers to bring up to three pets along for the cost of an extra suitcase. Pets of up to 165lbs (including carrier) can travel with guests in the cabin, and guests can buy pet carriers. There are also freight options for heavier pets, which are stored in their own holding area.
Thomas Cook - A wide range of animals are allowed on Thomas Cook, and there is no maximum weight for pets either. Travelers can also get them on board for just $18 per dossier plus an excess baggage fee.
TUI - While a more expensive option with a total cost of $95 per pet, TUI allows pets up to 13lbs to travel in the cabin alongside guests, and heavier pets can be put up in the cargo hold for the duration of the flight. Pets can also be added to an existing flight with a call.
While animals are now often a common sight on most airlines, there are some that are best to avoid, Compare the Market warned. EasyJet, Emirates and FlyBe won’t let travelers onboard with a pet at all.
Top Pet-Friendly Destinations
Some countries are more likely to welcome fluffy travelers than others. Compare the Market found some of the most surprising pet-friendly destinations for a trip away were:
New York - The Big Apple was the most pet-friendly destination, according to the report, with no bans on pets of any breed. Pets also do not need their own passport to travel to NYC, and only dogs will need a vet’s certificate proving they have had a recent rabies vaccination. Working dogs from certain destinations, including Mexico, may also need to prove that they’ve been vaccinated for tapeworm.
Tokyo - Furry friends will not need a passport to travel to Japan, but travelers will need to make sure their pets are chipped and that they have filed an Advanced Notification Form with the Animal Quarantine Service 40 days before travel. A vet must also complete a Japan Veterinary Certificate before travel, confirming that the pet has been inoculated against Japan’s list of illnesses, including hepatitis for dogs and calicivirus for cats.
Seoul - Korea is also a fan of pets, and doesn’t require a pet passport if the pet has been properly chipped. All animals traveling must be vaccinated against rabies.
When looking into traveling with pets, it is always advisable to look at getting them their own passport, as a third of destinations will require one, according to the report. Microchips are also required in 90 percent of countries, while almost all countries will require pets to be vaccinated against rabies.
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