Traveling with Your PET: Necessary Documents and Tips for a Positive Experience

Planning a trip is an exciting journey towards disconnection, whether with family or friends. However, to ensure that every moment is enjoyed to the full, careful planning is essential, from the itinerary of the days away to the essential documents, especially if you are considering traveling with a faithful furry friend.

Required documents:

Traveling with a pet requires special attention and compliance with certain requirements. To begin with, it is essential to have the correct documents. The Ministry of Agriculture is a reliable source; it provides all the necessary regulations for the safe and smooth transportation of animals. In addition, it is necessary to provide some key documents:

• The International Veterinary Certificate (CVI) or the Passport for the Transit of Dogs and Cats are essential; they declare the animal's health conditions and health history. Both are issued by federal auditors from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MAPA), who are present at airports, border posts and Federal Superintendencies of Agriculture in the states.

• Vaccination cards are another essential document. Animals over 120 days old must have up-to-date triple and rabies vaccinations, administered 30 days before the trip and valid for up to one year.

• On international flights, it is compulsory to use a microchip for electronic identification of the animal, containing detailed information about the pet and the owner's contact details.

Can a Pet Ride in the Cab with its Owner?

When considering transporting your pet during the flight, it is important to understand the policies of each airline. In general, transportation is carried out in the baggage area, requiring a transport box with specific measurements. Some airlines offer the possibility of the animal traveling in the cabin, next to the passenger, subject to rules that vary according to the animal's weight.

Overall, the total weights (carrying case + pet) are: 

• Latam - 7 kg; 
• Blue - 5 kg;
• Goal - 10 kg;
• Avianca - 8 kg.

Additional fees for traveling with pets should also be considered. On domestic flights, fees can vary between 200 and 250 reais per leg, per animal. On international flights, however, the amounts may be different and it is advisable to check directly with the airline.

Tips for a Peaceful Pet Trip

In addition to paperwork and bureaucracy, the animal's well-being during the trip is crucial. Here are five tips to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for your best friend:

1. Get your pet used to the carrier: Encourage a positive association with the crate by offering treats, toys and food in it every day.
2. Identify your pet and the carrier: To avoid confusion, it is essential to clearly identify both the animal and the transport box, including a badge with the animal's name and phone number.
3. Arrive at the airport early: As well as making check-in easier, arriving early allows the animal to get used to the airport environment, reducing stress.
4. Keep the transport box clean and the animal sanitized: Make sure the crate and the animal are clean to avoid discomfort during the flight, both for the pet and for other passengers.
5. Put a piece of your own clothing in the box with the pet: This can provide a feeling of comfort and security for the animal, due to its familiar smell.

See also: Online check-in versus airport check-in: which one to choose?

In addition to these tips, it's important to consult your pet's veterinarian for additional advice, such as the administration of medication to calm your pet down and instructions on eating during the flight. With proper planning and attention to detail, your trip with your pet can turn into a memorable experience for both of you.