Tools
Pet travel timeline: plan your dog's trip backwards
Enter the destination country and date: get a dated backwards plan of every step (microchip, rabies, titration, tapeworm, certificate…), exportable to your calendar and printable.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I plan flying with a dog?
It depends on the destination. Without a blood test, allow at least ~3 weeks (the rabies vaccine's validity delay). When a rabies antibody test is required (non-listed countries), it often takes 4 months or more: the vaccine, then the blood sample ≥30 days later, then a 3-month wait before entry. Our tool computes the deadlines backwards.
In what order do the steps for pet travel go?
The order is fixed: first the ISO microchip, then the rabies vaccination (the vaccine only counts if the chip was implanted first), then — if required — the rabies antibody test, then the parasite treatment and finally the vet health certificate just before departure. The tool shows this sequence, dated.
What is the rabies antibody (titration) test and when is it required?
It's a blood test confirming the vaccine produced enough antibodies (≥0.5 IU/ml). It's required to enter certain countries/zones from a 'non-listed' (high-risk) country. The blood sample must be ≥30 days after the vaccine and ≥3 months before entry.
When must the veterinary health certificate be issued?
Usually shortly before departure — often within 10 days of entry for an EU-style certificate. Exact rules vary: our tool shows the chosen country's official wording and links to the full guide.
Does this timeline replace the official rules?
No. Dates use documented standard intervals; each country's exact wording is shown per step and may differ. It's a planning aid — always confirm with the destination's veterinary authority and your vet.