Advice About Traveling With Older Dogs

Name: James
Number of Pets: 2
Pet Type: Dog and Cat
Pet Breed: Cocker Spaniel & Tabby
From: Ecuador
To: Alabama, USA

Dear PetRelocation,

Is there an age limit for international travel? My dog is 10 years old.

Thanks,

James

Hi James,

Deciding whether or not to travel with older pets will be up to you and your vet. Airlines and countries do not impose a particular limit, but you will need to obtain the correct paperwork and a health certificate signed by your vet stating your dog is healthy and fit to fly.

We have discussed this issue on our blog before; here is more information about what to consider when traveling with older pets. It can often be done safely when the right precautions are taken, but it's also important to realize that some amount of risk is always involved. Again, talk it over with your vet and feel free to give our office a call if you'd like to speak to one of our Specialists. We have flown many older pets and would happy to discuss the situation with you.

If you decide to go, to come from Ecuador to the United States you'll also need proof that your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccines and they'll need airline-approved travel crates, as well. Here is an overview of pet import requirements for the United States.

Hope this helps! Just let us know if you have more questions, and good luck with everything.