Pet-sitting during the holiday season can be a real headache, as many pet-sitters are not available during this period. Pet-friendly hotels have often been sold out for some time, and it's an extra cost we're happy to do without, especially as rates go up during the high season.
In this case, we make a little room in the suitcase, and if possible, we take along our partner to enjoy this period and make them enjoy it too. What are the travel conditions for our furry friends? What is the most cost-effective and comfortable form of transport, and can they travel alone?
Travelling by train
To travel with your pet by train, you must comply with the same conditions as for any other type of transport. If you are traveling in France, your pet must :
- Travel in a container (bag or basket) that is well-ventilated and large enough for it to turn around.
- Inside the cage, information must be indicated (owner's name, address and telephone number, microchip/tattoo number, pet's name).
- Be identified by a microchip
- Be vaccinated against rabies
- Have a European passport supplied and completed by a veterinarian
- Have an up-to-date health record
If you are travelling in Europe with your pet, you will need to find out more about your destination, as some countries have different policies. Here are the requirements to be met in all cases:
- The animal must be identified according to European standards and travel with a vaccination certificate.
- Small pets must travel in a container no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm. Their weight must not exceed 10 kg.
- Leashed dogs must be muzzled.
- Only one animal is allowed per passenger.
However, a special condition is imposed by SNCF transport: tacit agreement. This means that dogs, cats and other pets (hamsters, guinea pigs, etc.) are admitted only with the agreement of other passengers.
Travelling by car
Even if you're transporting your own pet in your vehicle, you must ensure the safety of your pet as you would any other passenger. Transporting pets by car is regulated by the Highway Code, and often requires special equipment.
Fasten them, like all passengers! Specialized cages are fitted with notches for seat belts. Alternatively, you can slide the belt under fixed points (bars, handles, etc.).
For larger dogs, you'll need to install them in the trunk in specially designed cages. Safety straps are required to install these transport cages.
What about carpooling?
Pets can travel in carpools, provided they travel in the company of their owner and the driver agrees to travel with them. Pet owners must provide the necessary equipment and documents for their journey, such as a leash, health record, etc...
You must inform the driver by message to check that there will be room for your pet! If you have a large pet, you may need to reserve an extra seat.
Coach tours
When traveling by coach, the rules governing the transport of pets may vary depending on the company you are traveling with. Most companies do not allow pets on board (see Blablacar Bus Or Flixbus)
Air travel
We invite you to browse our "What are the best airlines to travel with my pet?"but also "Quarantines and regulations: what you need to know about pet immigration regulations".
Pet transportation policies vary from airline to airline, so please check before you travel.
My pet travels alone
Sometimes you can't take your pet with you on the same journey, so you have to look for solutions to enable your pet to join you. Here are the solutions we can offer you:
- Post a message on a forumYou can use your pet's contact details, Facebook group, blog or other network to find someone on the same route as your pet, so that they can act as a guarantor when your pet is transported. This applies to all journeys.
- If you have the option of dropping it off, with the BlablacarYou can contact a driver to arrange for your pet to travel with you.
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