Taking your pet overseas to tag along on the family holiday is not a decision to take lightly, however if you plan ahead and follow the proper protocol, your four-legged family member doesn’t have to miss out.

The UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) Pets Travel Scheme (PETS) outlines the legal requirements when transporting your pets to and from international destinations and recent amendments have made it a much easier process.

Your pet must be microchipped, vaccinated for rabies at least 21 days before travel and also have a pet passport.

Before you leave the UK, you must have a return journey booked with a PETS-approved carrier, on a PETS approved route. Each airline that is eligible to transport animals will have their own set of rules and prices, so it’s important to be aware of these before you choose who to book with. You may also want to look at the added services they can provide for your pets comfort and wellbeing.

It’s important to make your pet’s journey as comfortable as possible. To do this, there are several things you can do. Plane travel can be trying on your pet, so ensure your pet is as healthy and fit as possible before the journey. Give them a light meal approximately two hours before travel and allow them plenty of opportunities to go to the toilet beforehand.

If you have a small pet, they may be able to travel in a small carrier on the plane with you, however if they are not small enough, they will need to be in a carrier in the air cargo. Ensure your pets carry crate is IATA approved, well ventilated and big enough so your pet has room to move. Let your pet get used to their carrying container before the flight, so they are comfortable with it. It’s also a good idea to put a familiar smelling blanket or pillow in the container, along with plenty of food and water for the trip.

Don’t forget to ensure your accommodation overseas allows pets. It’s also a good idea to look into things to do with your pet at your destination, such as where there are pet-friendly parks and beaches. You may also want to consider purchasing pet travel insurance, just in case there are any emergencies.

Traditionally, when your pet returns from an overseas trip, they have had to spend six months in quarantine; however this can now be avoided. From January 2012, cats or dogs returning from all countries in the world can forgo the lengthy six month quarantine, provided they meet the requirements of the scheme and their pet passports are correct and up to date. These requirements vary depending on the country you have travelled from and you can view them on the DEFRA website.

The country you are travelling to may also have their own rules on bringing pets into the country, and there may be restrictions on certain breeds. The rules are always changing, so ensure you investigate a few months before you wish to travel, and keep yourself updated until your holiday.

These days, it’s easier than ever to take your pet on holiday with you and if you plan in advance and ensure you follow the correct process, it can be a true family holiday with all two-legged and four-legged family members.

Fiona Roy writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.