Can I Travel With My Pet? How to Choose the Best Form of Transportation
Traveling with my pet It is an increasingly common desire among Brazilians, but it requires detailed planning to ensure safety and comfort.
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Whether traveling by road, air, or even alternative transportation, such as trains and boats, each mode has specific rules that must be strictly followed.
According to Brazilian Association of the Pet Products Industry (Abinpet), in 2024, 58% of guardians considered including their pets in trips, whether for leisure or moving house.
However, many still have doubts about the best form of transport, what documents are required, and how to avoid stress for the animal.
After all, a dog accustomed to car rides may react very differently than a cat, which is generally more sensitive to changes in environment.
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Additionally, airlines and bus companies have different policies, and ignoring these rules can result in inconvenience or even denied boarding.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore all the options available, from short trips to international travel, with practical tips, legal requirements, and recommendations from animal welfare experts.
Land Travel: Car and Bus
Own Car: Safety First
Transporting animals in private vehicles requires care that goes beyond simply placing the pet in the back seat.
According to the Contran (National Traffic Council), loose animals in the car can be considered a medium infraction, subject to a fine, as they increase the risk of accidents.
Ideally, you should use seat belts specifically for pets or transport boxes secured with a belt in the back seat.
For long trips, make stops every two or three hours, allowing the animal to hydrate and relieve itself.
Bring a water bottle and a collapsible bowl for easy access. Some pets may experience motion sickness during the trip, so avoid feeding them immediately before the trip.
If necessary, consult a veterinarian about anti-nausea medications.
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Interstate Bus: Variable Rules
Each bus company sets its own policies regarding the transportation of animals.
THE ANTT (National Land Transportation Agency) allows pets to travel in the luggage compartment, but only in suitable transport boxes with ventilation.
However, some companies, such as Comet and the Itapemirim, offer the possibility of transportation in the air-conditioned cargo compartment, as long as the owner presents a recent health certificate.
Before purchasing your ticket, check whether the company requires prior reservations for transporting your pet.
Some limit the number of pets per trip, and failure to comply with this rule may result in your being denied boarding.
Additionally, in cases of very long trips, consider whether this is the best option, as the animal will be away from its owner for hours.
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Air Travel: Strict Regulations and Preparation
Mandatory Documentation
Traveling with pets by plane requires extra attention to documentation. In addition to an up-to-date vaccination record (including rabies), a health certificate issued by a veterinarian up to 10 days before the flight.
Some companies, such as Goal, also require that the animal have an identification microchip, especially on international flights.
For international travel, rules vary depending on the destination country. European Union, for example, requires a Pet Passport, which verifies all vaccines and antiparasitic treatments.
Already the USA have specific requirements to prevent the entry of diseases such as rabies. Always check the destination country's Ministry of Agriculture website before traveling.
Cabin or Hold? Advantages and Risks
Most airlines allow small pets (usually up to 8-10 kg, including the carrier) to travel in the cabin, as long as the carrier fits under the seat in front of you.
However, larger animals need to be transported in the pressurized hold, which can be stressful for unaccustomed pets.
If you choose to transport your pet in the hold, choose direct flights and avoid traveling on very hot or cold days, as extreme temperatures can affect the animal's well-being.
Some brachycephalic breeds (such as Bulldogs and Pugs) are at higher risk for respiratory problems and may be rejected by some companies.
Comparison Table: Main Airlines (2025)
| Company | Pets in the Cabin? | Maximum Weight | Average Rate | Observations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goal | Yes | 10 kg | R$ 300 | Accepts up to 2 pets per flight |
| Latam | Yes | 8 kg | R$ 350 | Advance booking required |
| Blue | No* | 15 kg** | R$ 400 | Only air-conditioned pantry |
*Blue only transports in the pantry.
**Includes box weight.
Trains and Boats: Limited Options
Urban and Interstate Trains
In Brazil, most urban trains, such as the São Paulo Subway, prohibits the transportation of animals, except guide dogs.
However, in some cities, such as Rio de Janeiro, it is allowed to take pets at specific times, if they are in transport boxes.
As for tourist trains, such as the Serra Verde Express, are usually more flexible, allowing small pets with prior reservation. Always check the rules before boarding.
Ferries: An Alternative for Coastal Travel
On routes like Santos-Guarujá (SP) or Niterói-Rio (RJ), some ferries allow the transport of pets, but generally require them to remain in specific areas.
Large animals may need a muzzle, even if they are docile.
Final Tips: Comfort and Adaptation
- Get your pet used to it gradually with short trips before the long trip. This helps reduce anxiety.
- Bring familiar items, such as toys, blankets and even a piece of clothing with your scent, to calm the animal.
- Hydrate it often, especially when traveling by car or plane, where the air can be drier.
- Avoid sedating the animal without veterinary guidance., as some medications can cause side effects at high altitudes.
International Travel: Additional Requirements
Rules by Country
Each nation has its own requirements for the entry of animals. While countries in the European Union requires Pet Passport, others like Australia and New Zealand impose mandatory quarantine.
Us USA, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) requires proof of rabies vaccination and, in some cases, serological tests.
Airline Selection
Not all airlines allow international flights with pets. Lufthansa and the Air France are among the most pet-friendly, even offering mileage programs for animals.
Check whether the destination country accepts entry through the same connecting airport.
Conclusion
Traveling with my pet is an experience that can be pleasurable for both of us, as long as it is well planned.
Whether by car, plane, or other means of transportation, the key is to know the rules, prepare the necessary documentation, and ensure maximum comfort for your pet.
With the information in this guide, you'll be ready to choose the best travel option, avoiding unexpected surprises and ensuring a smooth journey. Remember: a safe and comfortable pet is a happy pet!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I travel with my pet on the bus without a transport box?
No. Most airlines require that the animal be in a suitable carrier, mainly to ensure its safety during travel.
2. Can my cat travel in the airplane cabin?
Yes, if it is within the maximum weight established by the airline (usually up to 8-10 kg, including the box).
3. What is the best way to transport a large dog?
For large dogs, transporting them in the pressurized hold of an airplane (in a suitable box) or traveling by car with a specific seat belt are the best options.
4. Do I need any documents to travel by car with my pet?
There is no legal requirement, but it is recommended to carry an up-to-date vaccination card, especially when traveling interstate.
5. Can pets travel on trains in Brazil?
It depends on the company. Urban trains generally don't allow it, but some tourist trains do, as long as the animal is in a carrier.
This comprehensive guide ensures you and your pet have a safe and worry-free trip. Enjoy your trip!