The International Schools Review Forum

have read many of the posts about taking pets abroad, mostly about cats though. Is there anyone out there who can give me some information about taking dogs to Europe? I am aware of the issues of having all the correct papers for transport and making sure the dogs will be welcome in housing in Europe ...

I have 2 Doberman pinschers, a brother and a sister, and wouldn't dream of leaving them behind. Someone wrote a posting saying to NOT send them through cargo on the airplace. But how else do we transport big dogs? I assumed that you put them in a big pet carrier, give them something to keep them calm, and entrust them to the airlines. Any information or suggestions?

I was planning to take a plane in a U.S. city from which I could fly directly to Europe, thereby avoiding a layover and making the trip longer than possible.

Thanks for any information about this topic.

You can take them as accompanied baggage. It is not as difficult as the professionals want you to believe. Be sure you know the countries rules and deal with the airline direct. An early reservation makes life easier.

Last August I brought 2 large dogs and a cat to Germany from the United States. Typically, your dogs must have current rabies vaccinations between 30 days and 360 days old, other shots should be current, they should have a medical certificate from a state certified vet that they are in good health, and they should have microchips implanted in them.

I would not worry about transporting your dogs on a plane. I agree, accompanied lugggage is the best route. You reserve their place in the special pressurized, climatized cargo hold especially for pets. While some airlines sometimes don't regulate the temperature as well as they should, some high quality airlines you can trust are Lufthansa, Continental and British Air. The airline you chose to fly with will have the specific information on what you need to do to prepare your dogs - water, food, size of pet carrier, etc. DO NOT tranquilize your dogs. Even if they are a bit stressed, it is not safe for them to be tranquilized.

The only concern I think you should really have is if the country you are entering allows Dobermans. I know that Germany DOES NOT. Some countries have a list of banned breeds. Be sure you know whether or not your destination country will accept them! I would hate for you to have the experience of not being able to take your dogs. Mine have travelled from Central America to the U.S. to Germany with me. They are family.

I wish you lots of luck.

Ouch! Can't bring Dobermans to Germany? Does anyone know of a good website where I can find out which breeds are banned and where? I had my heart set on trying to find in Germany, but now ....

Hi Again. I actually rechecked the website, and Dobermanns are restricted but not banned. You actually need to check on the regulations with the German State you will be living in.

Here is the German Consular website that addresses this:
http://www.germany.info/relaunch/info/c ... /dogs.html

Again, I wish you luck. Sorry to have misdirected you earlier.