Gigi is the “human” behind the cute dog travel blog Wet Nose Escapades, which is narrated by her world-traveling, ultra bossy Yorkshire Terrier named Roger Wellington. Since 2016, they have been traveling the world together and teaching dog “pawrents” how to travel with their dogs internationally.
To date, Roger W. has set his paws in over 20 countries. They will share their unique nomadic experience along with expert tips on how to travel long-term with a dog.
When I take my senior rescue Yorkie around the globe, I’m often met with surprised looks from strangers who are intrigued by our nomadic lifestyle. So, what’s it like traveling with a dog?
Countless people have asked me that question over and over. From Manhattan to Barcelona to Paris, Roger and I have traveled to and lived in some of the most amazing places in the world. Although it might sound complicated, traveling with a dog is such a rewarding bonding experience that’s well worth the extra money and paperwork.
After five years on the road with Roger, here’s what I’ve learned about traveling the world with a dog.
Experiences When Traveling with your Dog
You will embrace slow travel and live like a local
Traveling with your dog inevitably forces you to live more like a local instead of playing the typical ambitious tourist. While I’ve done my fair share of short-term travel with Roger before taking him abroad, I certainly prefer slow travel and I’m sure Roger does too.
Even though I teach dog parents how to travel with their dog, I don’t recommend taking your dog on a 5+ hour flight (whether domestic or international) unless you plan to stay beyond the typical weeklong vacation.
While human travelers may have no problem tearing up the town checking off tourist attractions within 48-hours before hopping on another flight, dog travelers need (or should be given) more rest. Because dogs thrive on routines, I do everything I can to recreate a stable environment for Roger on the road.
Before I resigned from the conventional office and started traveling with Roger, I would travel internationally for three weeks or so each time, covering one or two countries along with several major cities.
Now, with a dog in the mix, I’ll spend at least a whole month in Paris devouring savory crepes in the Latin Quarter and sippin’ on espressos in Le Marais before moving onto the next destination. Slow travel means that Roger and I can immerse ourselves with the local people and culture versus simply checking off that bucket list.
You will meet LOTS of people
Besides helping me slow down the pace, Roger has helped me connect with people wherever we go. Unlike most humans who may be shy to strike a conversation, dogs are hardly bashful to sniff out other dogs that come their way. As dog lovers know, dogs are generally social creatures who welcome a butt sniff or two.
From long-time residents with dogs to fellow travelers who miss their dogs, Roger has effortlessly helped me connect with new people, have interesting conversations, and even create lasting friendships. It’s a blessing that Roger and I have made numerous human and furry friends from all over the world, from Canada to Romania.
And, even if you don’t befriend anyone while traveling with your dog (which is highly unlikely), you’ll hardly feel lonely when your sweetfurry travel companion is always by your side.
You will learn to be bolder
When traveling with a dog, you’re often hit with rejection: “Dogs are NOT allowed.” However, that doesn’t mean that I don’t try to negotiate. It never hurts to be bold and attempt to negotiate when traveling with your dog. From hotels to restaurants to taxis, businesses around the world that don’t typically allow dogs may accommodate when asked politely.
For instance, I’ve found that it’s possible to negotiate or even skip those hotel pet fees (ranging from weekly to daily), especially if I intend on staying longer. If I find a suitable hotel or Airbnb with a NO PET POLICY, I’m not afraid to ask if they can accommodate me. The worst thing that can happen is that we get a BIG FAT NO.
I always vouch for Roger (and emphasize that he’s small, well-behaved, fully potty-trained, and hypoallergenic) and I’m often surprised by how accommodating some places are!
You should NOT take your dog everywhere
OK, let me explain. When you travel with your dog, you’ll have to be OK with not having the entire world at your fingertips. Unfortunately, many countries either have strict rules for dog/animal import (e.g. mandatory quarantine) and/or simply lack a dog-friendly culture to make the visit worthwhile.
For instance, Australia is a NO GO unless you’re okay with flying your dog in cargo and putting him or her in a mandatory 10-day quarantine upon arrival.
Remember, even Johnny Depp’s rich and famous Yorkies couldn’t bypass quarantine in Australia! However, with that said, there are still plenty of dog-friendly countries (especially in Europe) that will gladly accept your dog with just some paperwork (e.g. vet health certificate) and a rabies vaccine record.
You should NOT assume everyone likes dogs
While you’ll meet many dog-loving passengers and flight staff who are smitten by your adorable furry traveler, you’ll also come across some who may glare in disapproval.
Even though Roger has never made a peep on countless long-haul international flights, I’ve been stared down with disgust by more than several passengers over the years. In general, flight passengers are more tolerant of a screaming, snot-shooting baby than your dog, whether he or she is sleeping peacefully or barking up a storm. Hence, it’s imperative that your dog is well-behaved throughout the entire journey, from airport check-in to the flight duration to baggage claim.
It’s also best to keep your dog inside the carrier or leashed when walking through the airport. Be respectful of people who may fear dogs, suffer from allergies, or simply dislike dogs.
Tips for Traveling with Dog
Assess your dog’s temperament for travel
Just because you can travel with your dog doesn’t necessarily mean that you should. Unless it’s for a long-term or permanent move, you must first evaluate your dog’s capability and adaptability for travel prior to committing. Again, even though I help dog owners travel with their dogs, I don’t always recommend it. Like humans, some dogs will simply travel better than others, whether it’s by car or plane.
Some questions to ask yourself before making the decision: Do you think they’ll like it? Would they be better off at home with someone you trust? How do they fare when out and about? How well do they adapt to new environments?
Your dog’s health and safety should come first
While vet checkups are crucial for international travel, I also recommend them for domestic travel, particularly if your dog has never flown before. Make sure you address any pending health issues with the vet before boarding the plane.
As you know, travel days are tough and the same goes for your dog. Dogs are valued family members who should not be treated like luggage or accessories that you can haul from place to place. Whether you have a senior dog like myself or a 9-month-old puppy, your dog’s health must come first and foremost.
Please remember that no flight is ever worth your precious dog’s life! We’ve all heard those horrific dog air travel stories, most notably the death of a French bulldog who was wrongfully forced inside the overhead compartment by a flight attendant. If you see your dog panting or struggling inside the carrier, take him or her out immediately – even if this means going against the airline rules.
Acting fast can save a life. Most flight attendants are pretty lenient about having dogs out of the carrier (for a bit) while others are stricter and by-the-book.
Start carrier training as early as possible
Arguably the single most essential step in flying your dog in-cabin, carrier training is NOT a step you should skip. Start at least two months before your dog’s very first flight.
From the moment you bring home the airline-approved carrier, place your dog’s toys and treats inside. Hiding treats inside the carrier at the beginning of each training session will entice them to go in to sniff around. Allow your dog to sniff around freely for treats during the first few days of training.
Gradually, zip up the carrier and increase the time inside 3-5 minutes daily. Work up to 60-90 mins OR until they seem comfortable inside. Always stay right next to the carrier so your dog knows you’re just right there. After consistent sessions of uncovering goodies, your dog will eventually affiliate the carrier as a happy, safe place.
The more relaxed your dog is inside the carrier, the better he or she will fare on the flight. Find out how to choose the perfect dog carrier here.
Exhaust their energy before the flight
The best way to ensure an effortless journey is to exercise or tire out your dog before a flight. Of course, you shouldn’t force your dog into any extreme physical activity, but adding an extra 15-minutes or so of exercise and playtime will help them sleep through the flight.
You should also arrive early at the airport so your dog has a chance to walk around and eliminate one last time before the flight.
Do NOT assume your dog can “hold it” indefinitely
Since dogs may relieve themselves during stressful situations, it is NOT realistic to expect them to “hold it” until they can finally walk out of the airport. Even with advanced carrier training, accidents may still happen as confined dogs (whether in a crate or carrier) are essentially trying their best to hold it for as long as possible to avoid soiling their beds.
Not only should you be prepared for accidents, but you should also be empathetic if they happen. Although Roger has never had an accident on the plane before in over five years of international traveling, I always put a pee pad inside his carrier and come prepared with dog travel essentials for easy cleanup.
Stay longer whenever possible
This particularly applies to international travel. Traveling with your dog is rewarding and fun when carefully planned out, but it must be done through slower travel. If you are an ambitious traveler who is determined to check off a bucket list or collect countries, then please do yourself and your dog a favor by leaving him or her with someone you trust.
The phrase “traveling the world with your dog” should translate to living the world with your dog. As I mentioned earlier, dogs need (or should be given) more time to rest and adjust. If you’re planning to do a 12 or 14-day tour of a country that includes more than multiple destinations on your itinerary, then please do not take your dog with you unless you’ve exhausted all dog-sitting options.
