safe travel in car with dog

How to Travel With a Dog in a Car: An Expert Guide

Heading out on the road with your dog soon? Read this guide first to make sure the car ride is an enjoyable, safe experience.

Planning on taking your dog on the road with you?

If so, you may be wondering how to travel with a dog in car — safely and smoothly.

Before you start your trip, read the tips below.

In this expert guide to traveling with a dog in a car, we’ll cover:

• How to keep your dog safe
• Which harnesses or carriers are best for dogs in cars
• Tips for taking a dog on longer trips in a car
• What about letting a dog ride in the back of a pickup truck?
• How you can prevent motion sickness in your dog before a car ride
• And much more!

So buckle up, and let’s begin…

Part 1: How to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Car

Prevent a tragedy — vow right now to make sure your dog is properly restrained whenever you take them with you in the car.

The expense and slight inconvenience of using the appropriate vehicle safety items is well worth the risk.

Plus, restraining the dog also keeps them from moving around the car and distracting you while you’re driving.

Safely Restraining Your Dog in a Car

Dog harness.

First, get a harness for your dog.

If you restrain your dog using only a collar, your pet may get strangled if you get into a wreck, especially if you rear-end someone. A harness may protect the dog’s neck and spine.

We prefer fabric harnesses that wrap around the dog’s neck and torso. Many also have a loop on the top through which you can thread the seat belt.

The PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness  has a reflective vest, a leash connection on both the front and back, and (last we checked) was less than $20. Worth every penny.

Dog seat belts attach to harnesses, keeping your dog immobilized in the back seat.

There are 2 basic models:

• Those that attach to your car’s seat belt
• Those that clip into the “female” end of the seat belt lock

Either kind will work. Choose the one that works best for your car.

This strap from PetSafe is adjustable and easy to use.

Remember: Don’t attach the seat belt to your dog’s collar — attach it to the dog’s harness instead, to avoid strangulation.

Booster Seat

A small dog who loves to look out the car window will enjoy having a booster seat.

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Designed to fit in your back seat, booster seats are secured with your automobile’s seat belt, around which you clip a dog seat belt that you attach to the harness.

These specialized seats not only provide a safe place for travel but they also act as a comfortable dog bed. Most are made out of sturdy foam core topped with fabric and fleece. Add a blanket, and you’re good to go.

Booster seats provide maximum comfort and a view for your pup. They last a long time.

Here’s a highly rated car booster seat for small dogs sold by a company called Kurgo.

Dog Carrier

The safest way to transport your dog? In the back seat, confined to a hard-sided dog carrier (also called a travel kennel or crate) that you’ve secured with a seat belt.

In the event of a car accident, your dog should be well protected in a carrier.

The Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel is billed as being heavy-duty and secure for a safe and comfortable travel experience.

But according to the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), this exact crate was “far and away the most impressive crate” that this safety organization tested. It “was able to withstand the most significant forces generated in testing,” the CPS reported.

A few dog carrier tips for car travel:

• Make sure that whatever carrier or crate you get is large enough for your dog to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in.
• Place the carrier in the back seat, and then thread the seat belt through the handle. (Unsecured carriers can slide around on the seat.)
• Avoid putting too many items in the carrier that take up space or could cause injury to your dog.

Don’t Take a Chance on Safety

Pets aren’t children, but with respect to car travel, you should treat dogs as you would young kids.

Your dog should always sit in the back seat, secured with a safety restraint. Don’t let them ride in the front seat.

Yes, small dogs are cute and may fit in your lap perfectly, but you should not drive this way or allow your small dog to lie on a dashboard or other areas in the vehicle. This causes a distraction for you and increases your dog’s chances of being injured.

Getting a Dog Used to the Carrier

If your dog is not familiar with a carrier, try using it in the home before your trip to get your dog accustomed to it:

• Leave the door open.
• Place some of your dog’s favorite things inside to spark curiosity.

More Dog Carrier Tips for Car Trips

• Make sure that the carrier has enough ventilation to allow air to pass through freely, either through gated areas or holes.
• If your dog makes a mess inside the carrier during the trip, carry the carrier to a confined area such as a bathroom before letting your dog out. This lets you clean the carrier without the risk of your dog running away.

Part 2: Advice for Traveling With a Dog on Longer Car Trips

Be aware of the temperature.

This is an important topic for any pet when it comes to car travel.

Be aware of what the temperature will be at your destination and along the way, and never leave your dog in the car.

It takes only a few minutes for the temperature to rise to dangerous levels inside a vehicle, even in mild temperatures such as 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Lowering the car windows is not an effective way to ventilate the car — and may even allow your dog to escape.

The same can be said for the cold: Dogs can get hypothermia or die from dangerously low temperatures. Keep extra blankets with you, and again — don’t leave your dog in the car.

Hotels, Motels and Camps

If your trip includes staying overnight, check with the place you will be staying to learn about the pet policies, costs and other concerns.

If you plan to find a place to sleep as you go, make a list of dog-friendly places along the way so you know which ones to head to first.

See the Vet Before Long Car Trips With Your Dog

A vet visit is a good idea before a trip, especially for longer trips.

The dog’s veterinarian can check their health and make sure travel will be fine. Discuss sedation with your vet if you feel your dog will be stressed, anxious or have significant issues during travel. (See the next section on ways to prevent motion sickness.)

Do not self-medicate your dog or give your medications created for humans or other animals — these could be deadly.

• Consider getting your dog microchipped before the trip.
• Traveling across states, you may be asked to produce your dog’s rabies vaccination information. Take a copy of your dog’s records, as well as a current photograph in case your dog gets lost.
• Keep a copy of the paperwork and a picture of your pet in 3 places: your car, taped to the carrier and with you at all times. Add your contact information so someone finding your dog can contact you.
• Make sure your dog has a current tag on their collar — and bring an extra one in case it needs to be replaced while you are on the road.

Food and Water

• Limit your dog’s food intake before traveling to reduce the possibility of sickness or nausea.
• Take extra pet food and snacks with you for stops or for when you reach your destination. Stores may not have your dog’s usual brand of food, and changing food during a stressful situation such as travel might be a combination that causes stomach upset, diarrhea or other unpleasantness for your dog.
• Finally, take bottled water — and lots of it — with you on your trip.
• Try to plan stops every 3–4 hours to ensure your dog has ample opportunities to stretch, potty, drink water and get a break from the car.
• Don’t forget to bring along poop bags and/or a scooper to clean up after your dog.
• Keep your dog leashed on walks.

Talk to the Kids

If you are traveling with children, talk to them about allowing the dog to enjoy personal space without distraction.

Discuss behaviors they shouldn’t do, such as:

• Hitting or shaking the carrier
• Feeding the dog their food or snacks
• Teasing, hitting, pulling, or opening the crate — or releasing the harness

Any of these behaviors can add stress to your dog, and the goal is to keep your dog as comfortable and happy as possible while the dog is traveling in the car.

Part 3: How to Prevent Motion Sickness in Your Dog

Did you know 1 in 6 dogs suffers from motion sickness?

If you have a motion-sick dog, then you have our sympathy. Knowing your dog will arrive shivering and salivating (at best!) takes the fun out of a car trip.

Some dogs even learn to anticipate the feelings of nausea, and this makes them reluctant to even get in a car.

If you avoid car travel with your dog or always travel with a full cleanup kit, help is at hand. But don’t expect a quick fix — the answer takes time and dedication.

Positive Associations

Some dogs only have to see a car to start drooling because they link road travel to feeling sick.

This makes them unwilling to get into the car, which means you end up forcing the dog in — which only adds to the dog’s anxiety and feelings of unease.

Put an end to this vicious circle by teaching your dog to associate the car with good things.

• Play with your dog’s favorite toy in the back seat of your parked car.
• End each session on a high by giving them a treat.
• Hop out to go for a walk before they get anxious.
• Reward them for being calm while inside the car with another tasty food treat, and praise their bold behavior.

Another option includes spending at least a couple of weeks engaging the dog in a game inside the car but with the doors open so your pet doesn’t feel trapped.

Also try other strategies, such as feeding meals inside the car (perhaps invest in a waterproof seat cover) so your dog sees the car as an extension of the home.

Once the dog is willingly jumping into the vehicle, you’re ready to progress. Take things slow, though — move on to the next stage only when your dog’s tail is in the air rather than between their legs.

Introduce one new change at a time, giving them plenty of time to accept each step.

A retraining journey includes:

• Shutting the car doors
• Starting the engine but keeping the car in park
• Reversing a few feet, then driving back to the parked position
• A short, straight drive up the road
• A short drive around the block, then back into the drive
• A short drive in the neighborhood

All the while, remember the 3 golden rules:

• Praise their calmness.
• Stop before they become distressed.
• End on a positive note.

Car Climate

There’s nothing worse than a hot, stuffy car for making me feel sick when traveling, and the same is true for dogs.

• Make sure the vehicle is cool with fresh air circulating. It also helps some dogs if they can see out of a window — for smaller dogs, consider a booster seat or dog pod.
• Most dogs travel best with a handful of dry biscuits in their stomach, given 1–2 hours beforehand, rather than traveling with a totally empty stomach.
• Stop frequently to let your dog stretch his legs and drink water.

Travel Medications

If you have an urgent journey to make, you may not have the time to desensitize your dog to car travel.

Medication may be your best way forward. At least then the dog will be spared the nausea associated with car travel.

Some people swear by traditional remedies, such as ginger or peppermint. There are also herbal options, such as skullcap and valerian, or quick fixes such as Rescue Remedy.

That said, these are not scientifically proven to be effective, and it’s best not to rely on them, especially for a long trip.

There are also these medications:

• Acepromazine (ACP): This is a sedative with an anti-motion sickness action. ACP isn’t suitable for short journeys, as the dog is groggy for around 8 hours. Also, some dogs have an adverse reaction where they become “hyper” rather than sedated, so test it out before committing to a long journey.
• Maropitant (Cerenia): This drug acts on the nausea center in the brain and turns it off. This makes it the ideal motion sickness tablet — it works for 24 hours without sedating the dog. The only drawback is the price.

Here are a few more great tips from Pet Health Network:

In short, reintroduce the car as a fun place to be, and use medication to stop your dog from feeling sick.

By preventing nausea and building new associations, you’ll find that along this path lies the promise of stress-free car travel with your dog.

Part 4: Why Are Dogs Still Riding in the Back of Trucks?

You’re driving down the road, windows open, hair blowing in the wind and music blaring.

It’s a gorgeous, sunny day that’s absolutely perfect for a road trip.

Until you spot something that puts a knot in your stomach — someone’s dog is freely riding in the bed of their pickup truck.

Not only that, but also you see the driver look down to switch the radio station, only to swerve away from the curb after looking back up. The dog, of course, bumps hard into the side of the truck bed, almost losing balance. The sight makes you cringe.

What do you do? There must be a law against something like this, right?

The straight answer is yes, there are laws against driving with dogs in the back of pickup trucks.

Unfortunately, those laws are sparse and certainly not all-encompassing.

According to the Animal Legal and Historical Center, as of 2017, only 5 U.S. states had laws in place to keep dogs out of truck beds:

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• Rhode Island

Even in those states, there are exceptions to the law.

How Dangerous Is it to Let a Dog Ride in the Back of a Truck?

DMV.org reports that thousands of dogs are killed each year riding in the back of pickup trucks.

That number doesn’t even account for all the injuries that don’t lead to deaths.

You know how gravel and dirt sometimes spray onto your windshield, resulting in tiny cracks in the glass? A dog riding in a truck bed is susceptible to that same gravel and dirt spray. If it’s forceful enough to crack a windshield, there’s no doubt it can harm a dog’s eyes, nose or even lungs if it’s breathed in.

Of course, there are also more obvious consequences, like a dog being thrown from the truck (or being slammed against the back of the cab) if the driver slams on the brakes or swerves.

How Dogs Can Ride Safely in a Truck

Drivers of pickup trucks should always ride with their dogs in the cab and strap them to the seat with a dog-friendly car restraint.

Yes, there are ways to secure crates to a truck bed, but even then, gravel and dirt could potentially damage a dog’s ears, eyes and throat.

And yes, there are ways to cross-tether a dog in a truck bed to prevent them from falling or jumping, but the same dangers remain.

The only real solution when taking your dog for a ride, no matter what kind of vehicle, is to safely secure them with a dog car seat or harness (in the back seat).

Sure, taking that extra step might delay the trip by a few minutes. But isn’t potentially saving lives worth it?

• Center for Pet Safety. “Gunner Kennel G1 Intermediate.” June 2015. https://www.centerforpetsafety.org/cps-certified/gunner-kennel-g1-intermediate/ .
• Becker, Marty, DVM et al. From Fearful to Fear Free: A Positive Program to Free Your Dog From Anxiety, Fears and Phobias . Fear Free, LLC. 2018.
• Horwitz, Debra, DVM, DACVB, and Gary Landsberg, DVM, DACVB, DECAWBM. “Air and Car Travel.” VCA Hospitals. 2013. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dog-behavior-and-training-traveling-air-and-car-travel .
• DMV.org. “Traveling With Your Pet.”  https://www.dmv.org/how-to-guides/pet-travelling.php .

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15 Safety Tips for Traveling with Dogs in Cars

Table of Contents

1. Never leave your dog alone in the car

2. understand motion sickness, 3. food can trigger motion sickness in dogs, 4. deal with your dog's traveling jitters, 5. use the buddy system, 6. some dogs remember a lot, 7. don’t wait until it’s an emergency, 8. drugs might be a short-term fix, 9. dog carriers and dog crates are safer, 10. buckle up in the back, 11. hide his eyes or distract the nose, 12. more pressure can be a good thing, 13. keep his head in, 14. have identification tags ready, 15. take a dog backpack or carrier.

S ome dogs and their owners definitely come as a pair. They always want to be together. If your dog enjoys going for a ride,  traveling with dogs in cars can be a lot of fun. However, there are a few things you'll need to do to keep your pet safe and happy during the car ride.

Don't be upset if your pet doesn't like to ride in cars. Even though the majority of canines love riding in cars, for some dogs, it's just a bit of anxiety that keeps them from enjoying a ride in a car. With a bit of training and a little patience, you can curb your pooch's fear in no time. But how come some dogs simply love riding in cars, then?

CarAndDriver.com asked the experts why most dogs enjoy riding in cars, and it turns out that it's not because of the riding experience itself. The experts say that dogs love cars because they love us, their owners. It's the shared car ride experience .

Nevertheless, nervous jitters aren't going to be your only problem when it comes to traveling with dogs in cars. Your furry friend can also be a big distraction to you while you're driving. You'll need to take the proper steps to keep your dog safe while he's riding inside the vehicle, and that involves keeping him in the cargo hold or a dog car seat .

If your pup is roaming around in the car, he's going to distract you and become a dangerous projectile in the event of a car accident. Not to mention, it's likely that he'll be getting into things or climbing on your passengers. Follow these tips to prevent any of this from happening when traveling with dogs in cars.

ALSO READ:  How to Prevent and Treat Car Sickness in Dogs

15 Tips for Traveling with Dogs in Cars

This should go without saying. Dogs can get a heatstroke from being locked in the car, which can be fatal . In many US states, locking your dog in a car may even be against the law or be considered animal abuse to leave your dog inside a vehicle.

The same applies to leaving dogs in cars in winter. When it's cold weather outside, it can eventually get very cold and freezing in a parked car, so make this a year-round rule.

Puppies are more likely to get sick in the car, just like young children. This is probably because their inner ears aren’t fully developed. Try to be aware of how your dog is feeling, and try shorter trips or other techniques until he gets more comfortable.

Symptoms of motion sickness in dogs range from the obvious to the more subtle:

• Extra drooling
• Restlessness
• Vomiting (in the car or shortly after arrival)

Don’t feed your dog in a moving vehicle, at rest stops, or right before a car trip unless he is a really comfortable traveler who never gets any signs of motion sickness. It’s better for the dog to have a light meal a few hours before traveling and not much on any dog treats.

Trust me, the last thing you want to deal with is a dog throwing up as you're driving down the freeway. But just in case you aren't sure whether this is going to happen or not, it's always a good idea to have dog car seat covers on the back seats as well.

It’s a cliché that dogs can’t wait to go out for a ride, but not every dog feels that way. Some dogs find traveling in cars frightening, and that can be a serious inconvenience.

If that's the case with your pooch, then accept that your dog’s fear is real and slowly begin to desensitize him with short, positive experiences, like treats or trips to the park.

For example, if you never travel with your dog to anywhere interesting and only drive together to the vet or the kennel, how interested can your dog be about getting in the car? It's a negative association for him. You’ve got to make it an enjoyable experience for your dog. You may need to start with a reward just for getting into the car.

Don’t push things too hard or fast. Forcing your dog too much only teaches him to expect things to get progressively more difficult and scary. Mix things up: play near the car, encourage him to reach in for a dog treat on the floor or climb over the car seat. Then, go for a quick trip. Just be patient and accept Fido's pace. They need to acclimate.

READ MORE:  10 Tips On How to Calm Down a Dog

If there's a friend with you when traveling with dogs in cars, there will always be someone to hold the dog’s leash when you go in a store or someone to help if there’s an issue.

Just having someone beside him in the back seat might help in the beginning. So try to make it a fun trip and bring more people; for dogs, the more, the merrier.

Dogs can associate streets, landmarks, and what direction the car turns with certain locations. They might get excited on the way to the dog park  but frightened if you turn towards the vet’s office. You may need to deal with situations like this with more positive training and rewards.

Ultimately, it's all about training your pooch to adjust to the environment and the procedure of riding in the car: getting in, staying in, and getting out. Dedicate to train him at first and reap the benefits for the rest of the time.

If you need to take your dog on a long car trip or go to the vet, dog groomer, or kennel, start positive: give him rewards and train him as early as you can. Puppies should ideally learn to make a positive association with riding in cars before they leave for their forever homes and are separated from their mothers.

An emergency is stressful enough that you don’t want to take on more than you have to. Car travel preparations can save you a lot of stress and time. It’s better to leave your dog at home, get a dog sitter, or take him to the kennel than jump right into more than your dog’s ready for. Bad associations are harder to deal with than just inexperience.

You don’t want your dog dependent on medication whenever he needs to travel or have him completely sedated. However, something to take the edge off his fear or settle his stomach might help him to be less anxious and start making more positive associations.

There are plenty of drug solutions out there, and you can get some of the best dog anxiety medications to calm your dog before any car ride. Just keep in mind that it's not a long-term solution, and you still need to train your pooch for positive association.

Dog crates have been one of the best solutions when traveling with dogs in cars because many dogs love them (especially after you crate-train your dog) . They feel much calmer in their crates, and pet parents also reap the benefits: it's easy to transport your pooch in a dog crate, and you can also use that crate later once you arrive at your destination.

Not all dog crates work with cars, however. There are some that are specially designed and particularly travel-friendly dog crates , which will be more secure in the car and comfortable for the dog, too.

Airbags are as dangerous for your dog as they would be for a child. Anchor any dog crates or pet carriers with a proper seatbelt or use a dog restraint harness when traveling with dogs in cars to prevent them from shifting around if there is an accident or sudden stop. In some places (Tennessee), it's the law that your dog can’t move freely in your vehicle.

Luckily for pet owners, there are specially designed dog seat belts that work in many different ways: some just restrain a dog (like this EzyDog Restraint Harness) and keep him secure, and some will attach only to an existing dog harness that you've already put on your pooch, and others will also work with dog crates and secure them in the car.

We've done a test and comparison video review to find the most effective solutions for this. Take a look at the results of our  best dog car seat belt round-up.

There are also special calming caps or fly masks to limit your dog's vision when traveling in a car. There are things called Dog Appeasing Pheromone collars (or D.A.P. collars). These collars contain special pheromones that calm your dog and provide him comfort. Adaptil is one of the most popular DAP collars out there but search for your own best solution.

Alternatively, you can also try essential oils like lavender or peppermint. Read more on how to use essential oils with dogs and why you should give this natural solution a try.

Some dogs react well to a calming pressure vest or wrap. Think of it like a hug to make your pup feel better. This is why many owners are opting to use calming vests and jackets for dogs to keep them stress-free. There's no science behind this other than it actually works well.

For example, a Thundershirt is the most popular vest for calming dogs, and it's often used for anything—from dealing with separation anxiety in dogs to calming them down during car rides, training, fireworks, loud noises, or all types of travel. There are a few other great quality dog anxiety vests that have been positively reviewed by hundreds of owners.

It has been very popular to allow dogs to keep their heads outside of moving vehicles, but the cold air pushed into their lungs can do some damage to their health. That is without mentioning how he might get hit with something like stones or other debris.

There are actually tons of reasons not to allow your dogs to stick their head out of cars, so maybe don't do it.

Dogs need frequent rest stops on long trips, but never let your dog out of the car or out in public without an identity tag. Keeping your dog on a leash in an unfamiliar place is the best thing you can do to keep him safe, even at the dog park.

Even if your pet is equipped with a dog GPS tracker so you can easily locate him, nothing will be as reliable as an ID tag that you attach to his collar and have your phone number on. Dog ID tags are cheap, small, and simple to put on, so there's no reason not to use them to provide yourself with just a little more peace of mind.

You’ll need certain things while traveling with dogs in cars , like bags for poop, a leash, and a water bowl. At the same time, if you have a smaller breed dog and no dog crate with you, you may want to carry your pooch somewhere where he cannot go himself.

This is where dog backpacks or carrier slings are great because you can store everything, including your dog in them. And it doesn’t hurt to be prepared with a first aid kit for dogs and yourself, towels and paper towels, water, dog food, and whatnot. All, just in case.

READ NEXT:  4 Essential Tips For Traveling With Dogs That Will Keep Them Safe

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How to Keep Your Pets Safe in a Car

Advice and tips on how to safely travel with your furry friends, sharing is nice.

We respect your privacy . All email addresses you provide will be used just for sending this story.

Restraining your pets is as much about your safety as theirs. If a vehicle brakes abruptly or is involved in a crash, an unrestrained pet of any size can hurtle through the cabin, becoming a dangerous projectile that can cause injuries. According to the pet advocacy group BarkBuckleUp, a 60-pound dog in a car traveling 35 mph can turn into a 2,700-pound projectile in an accident.

It's important to keep your dog secured just like the rest of your passengers, according to the nonprofit  Center for Pet Safety . Jennifer Stockburger, Consumer Reports' child-safety expert, says "it's as much about your safety as hers." Loose pets can also be a  driver distraction .

Many products are available to help restrain our furry friends, but unlike restraints for humans, there are no standards or industry tests for them. Even those labeled "crash-tested" are usually based only on the manufacturer's claims and don't mean that they meet a standard.

The nonprofit group  Center for Pet Safety , with support from Subaru, conducted independent tests of dog crates, harnesses, and carriers. The harness systems were tested using specially designed crash test dummy dogs in three sizes: a 25-pound terrier mix, a 45-pound border collie, and a 75-pound golden retriever. They based the test on the FMVSS 213 standard, which is the procedure currently used to certify child safety seats. 

Lindsey Wolko, founder of the Center for Pet Safety, told us that data collected from its studies in 2013 and 2015 allowed the group to develop the safety standards and ratings guidelines it uses to evaluate pet travel products. 

In the end, only a handful of products earned the center's crash test certification. The top-performing models from its past tests include:

Carriers • Sleepypod Air, $179 • Sleepypod Atom, $119 • Sleepypod Mini With PPRS Handilock, $179 • Sleepypod Pet Bed with PPRS Handilock, $199

Crates • Gunner Kennels G1, $399 to $599; with 8-inch tie-down straps, $75 additional • Lucky Duck Lucky Kennel Intermediate, $499; with 8-inch ratchet tie-down straps, $80 additional

Harnesses • Sleepypod Clickit Sport, $75 • Sleepypod Clickit Terrain, $95 • ZuGoPet The Rocketeer Pack $105 to $175

Pet products are an unregulated $60 billion industry. Some companies label their products as "tested" or "crash-tested," but there are no government or industry standards, Wolko says. So the group did its own tests of crates, harnesses, and pet carriers. (They were funded by Subaru to cover the costs of the crash tests.)

Tips to Make Traveling Easier

Cargo-Area Mat or Liner Mats and liners help protect carpets and make cleanup easier. Look for one with a 2- to 3-inch lip around the edge to keep spills contained.

Mat/Travel Bed If you have a pet bed at home, take it along to help keep your pet comfortable and make him feel more secure. Or get one just for your car. Beds for the cargo area are an option, as are hammocks that fit over the rear-seat area.

Loading Ramp These ramps make it easier for dogs to get in and out of vehicles. Telescoping or foldable ramps provide extra length without being too long to fit in your car.

"Pet Friendly" Guidebook These include tips on lodging, emergency services, and pet-friendly parks along the way. Also check out websites like petswelcome and petfriendlytravel.com.

Collar ID Tag Get one with your pet's name, your name, and your telephone number. A cell-phone number is best for the road, or you can tape a local number to the collar. Bring along your vet's number, too.

Prepacked Food Familiar food is good on the road and can save money over buying as you go. Pack each meal in a resealable plastic bag.

Biscuits, Treats, and Toys A new or favorite toy or two can relieve stress.

Water Bowl Any plastic bowl will do, but a number of sources offer specialty travel bowls that are collapsible, spillproof, and/or resealable. Some models even fit into a cup holder. And don't forget a container for carrying water.

Dog Towels They're handy for swims or an unexpected mud bath.

Leash It should be obvious, but don't forget the leash.

Medical Records Should your pet become ill, they can save valuable time and expense.

Medications Don't forget pills, ointments, or anything else you give your pet at home.

Pet Photo Bring a print or take one with your cell phone. If your pet gets lost, a picture can be worth far more than a thousand words.

Litter and Box Your cat will need litter and a box for trips longer than 6 hours. In a pinch, you can make a litter box from a cake pan or box.

Plastic bags and cleaning supplies They're especially handy if someone has an upset stomach or "accident."

Prevent Fast Getaways Always put your pet on a leash before opening the door or tailgate to let him out.

Take Regular Breaks Stop every couple of hours to let your pet drink some water and get a little exercise.

Don't Leave Your Pet in a Car Never leave a pet in the car on a hot day. CR testing showed that even when it was 61° F outside, the temperature inside a closed car reached more than 105° F in just 1 hour, an extremely dangerous and potentially fatal level.

Avoid Wind in the Face Letting your pet ride with its head out the window looks like fun, but eye, ear, and head injuries could result.

Plan Your Stops If you're staying in hotels, make sure they're pet-friendly before you book. And keep in mind that some hotels and motels that say they allow animals might have weight limits or charge you an extra fee.

I owe my career to two fateful events: my father buying a 1965 Corvette and my purchase of an Audi A4 rather than a Chevy Tahoe. The Corvette jump-started my love of cars, and the Audi led me to automotive journalism, track days, and amateur car repair. In my free time I cycle as much as possible, no matter the season. Follow me on Twitter . (@CRCarsJon)

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Travel safely with your pet

Tips to keep your pet safe while transporting them by car, airplane, ship or train

When making travel decisions, choose what is safest and most comfortable for your pet. For instance, unless you'll be able to spend a lot of time with your dog, they'll probably be happier at home than tagging along on your trip. As a rule, cats are almost always better off in their own home. But if you have decided it's best to bring your pet along, follow our tips for a safe and low-stress trip!

Do you know the best place for your dog or cat in your car?

Dogs shouldn't roam in the car

The safest way for your dog to travel in the car is in a crate that has been anchored to the vehicle using a seat belt or other secure means. Dog restraints or seat belts are useful for preventing your dog from roaming around the car and being a distraction to the driver, but they haven't been reliably shown to protect dogs during a crash.

Cats belong in carriers

Most cats aren't comfortable traveling in cars, so for their safety as well as yours, keep them in a carrier. It's important to restrain these carriers in the car so that they don't bounce around and hurt your cat. Do this by securing a seat belt around the front of the carrier.

Leave the front seat for humans

Keep your pet in the back seat of the car. If an airbag deploys while your pet is in the passenger seat (even in a crate), it might injure your pet.

Keep those heads inside

Dogs and cats should always be kept safely inside the car. Pets who are allowed to stick their heads out the window of moving vehicles can be injured by particles of debris or made sick by having cold air forced into their lungs. Never transport a pet in the back of an open pickup truck.

Give your pet plenty of rest stops

Stop frequently to allow your pet to exercise and eliminate, but never permit your pet to leave the car without a collar , ID tag and leash.

Bring along a human buddy

Whenever possible, share the driving and pet caretaking duties with a friend or family member. You'll be able to get food or use the facilities at rest stops knowing that someone you trust is keeping a close eye on your pets.

Don't ever leave your pet alone in a car

A quick pit stop may feel like no time at all to you, but it's too long to leave your pet alone in a car. Heat is a serious hazard: when it's 72 degrees Fahrenheit outside, the temperature inside your car can heat up to 116 degrees within an hour. On an 85-degree day, even with the windows slightly open, the temperature inside your car can reach 102 degrees in just 10 minutes. Even if you’re certain of your timing, you can get held up — in just 30 minutes, you could return to a 120 degree car and a pet suffering irreversible organ damage or death.

If you see a pet left inside a hot car,  take these steps to help them.

Spread the word about the dangers of leaving pets in a hot car by printing our Hot Car flyer [PDF] , posting it in public places and sharing it with your friends, family and coworkers.

Another hazard of leaving your pet in the car alone is the possibility of someone stealing your pet while you are away from the vehicle.

Make a disaster plan for your pets (large and small) now. Here are tips on preparing a disaster kit, finding a safe place to evacuate with your pets and sheltering in place. Remember: If it isn’t safe for you, it isn’t safe for your pets.  

By airplane

Before booking a flight for your pup, you’ll want to think through all your options.

Air travel can be risky for pets

We recommend that you weigh all the risks when deciding whether to transport your pet by airplane. Air travel can be particularly dangerous for animals with "pushed in" faces (the medical term is "brachycephalic"), such as bulldogs, pugs and Persian cats. Their short nasal passages leave them especially vulnerable to oxygen deprivation and heat stroke.

Consider all the alternatives to flying

If you plan to bring your pet on vacation, driving is usually a better option. If you can't travel by car, your pet will probably be healthier and happier if you leave them behind under the care of a pet-sitter or boarding kennel. But there are times when that won’t be possible and you’ll have to determine whether the benefits of flying outweigh the risks.

Visit your vet

Most airlines require a health certificate for animals, typically issued within 10 days of travel. This is also a good time to ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and that they aren’t battling any illnesses that could be exacerbated by heat or stress.

Research your destination

If you’re flying internationally, or even to Hawai'i, your pets may need to be quarantined upon arrival. They may also require import forms. Familiarize yourself with the requirements, where they’ll be quarantined and for how long.

If you decide to fly with your pet, choose the cabin when possible

If transporting your pet by air is the only option, find out whether they can travel in the cabin with you. Most airlines will allow you to take a cat or small dog in the cabin for an additional fee. But you must call the airline well in advance; there are limits to the number of animals allowed in the cabin. If you are transporting your dog, make sure they meet the size requirements. If you get overwhelmed by all the regulations, there are companies that can help you navigate through the process of flying with a pet.

Ask these questions if your pet is flying in the cabin

When you contact the airline, be sure to get clear answers to these questions:

• Will the airline allow you to take your cat or small dog in the cabin with you?
• Does the airline have any special pet health and immunization requirements?
• Does the airline require a specific type of carrier? Most airlines will accept either hard-sided carriers or soft-sided carriers (which may be more comfortable for your pet), but only certain brands of soft-sided carriers are acceptable to certain airlines.
• If you can't take your pet in the cabin, does the airline have any restrictions on transporting your pet in the cargo hold?

Take precautions when bringing your pet through airport security

Your pet's carrier will have to pass through the security screening along with you. You have two options: Either be sure your pet is securely harnessed so you can safely contain them outside their carrier while it's being x-rayed, or request a special secondary screening that won't require you to take them out of their carrier.

Be aware of the dangers of flying your pet in a cargo hold

While most animals flown in the cargo area of airplanes are fine, you should be aware that some animals are killed, injured or lost on commercial flights each year. Excessively hot or cold temperatures, poor ventilation and rough handling are often to blame.

Most U.S. airlines are required to report all companion animal incidents that occur in the cargo hold, and consumers should study the performance record of any airline before choosing to fly your pet in a cargo hold.

Follow these tips if your pet must fly in the cargo hold

If your pet must travel in the cargo hold, you can increase the chances of a safe flight for your pet by following these tips.

• Use direct flights. You will avoid the mistakes that occur during airline transfers and possible delays in getting your pet off the plane.
• Travel on the same flight as your pet when possible. Ask the airline if you can watch your pet being loaded into the cargo hold and unloaded.
• When you board the plane, notify the captain and at least one flight attendant that your pet is traveling in the cargo hold. If the captain knows that pets are on board, they may take special precautions.
• Don't ever ship brachycephalic animals such as Pekingese dogs, bulldogs or Persian cats in the cargo holds .
• If traveling during the summer or winter months, choose flights that will accommodate the temperature extremes . Early morning or late evening flights are better in the summer; afternoon flights are better in the winter.
• Fit your pet with a collar that can't get caught in carrier doors. Affix two pieces of identification on the collar: a permanent ID with your name and home address and telephone number, and a temporary travel ID with the address and telephone number where you or a contact person can be reached. Make sure your pet’s microchip information is up to date.
• Affix a travel label to the carrier on which you've written your name, permanent address and telephone number, final destination and where you or a contact person can be reached as soon as the flight arrives.
• Make sure that your pet's nails have been clipped to protect against them getting hooked in the carrier's door, holes and other crevices.
• Give your pet at least a month before your flight to become familiar with the travel carrier . This will minimize their stress during travel.
• Do not give your pet tranquilizers unless they are prescribed by your veterinarian. Make sure your veterinarian understands that the prescription is for air travel.
• Do not feed your pet for four to six hours before the trip. However, you can give them small amounts of water. If possible, put ice cubes in the water tray attached to the inside of your pet's crate or kennel. (A full water bowl will only spill and cause discomfort.)
• Try not to fly with your pet during busy travel times such as holidays and the summer . Your pet is more likely to undergo rough handling during hectic travel periods.
• Carry a current photograph of your pet . If your pet is lost during the trip, a photograph will make it much easier for airline employees to search effectively.
• When you arrive at your destination, open the carrier as soon as you are in a safe place and examine your pet. If anything seems wrong, take your pet to a veterinarian immediately. Get the results of the examination in writing, including the date and time.

Speak up if you see something

Don't hesitate to complain if you witness the mishandling of an animal—either yours or someone else's—at any airport. Ask to speak with the manager of the section where the incident occurred and report mishandling both in person and in writing.

With the exception of assistance dogs, pets are welcome on only a few cruise lines—and usually on ocean crossings only. Some lines permit pets in private cabins, but most confine pets to kennels. Contact your cruise line in advance to find out its policies and which of its ships have kennel facilities. If you must use the ship's kennel, make sure it is protected from the elements and check on your pet frequently.

Amtrak now allows some pets on select trains and service animals are allowed on all lines. Some smaller U.S. railroad companies may permit animals on board. Many trains in European countries allow pets. Generally, it's the passengers' responsibility to feed and exercise their pets at station stops.

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Smarter Driving

Dogs in Cars, Getting There Safely

Like any family member, they need to be protected in case of a crash, but also should not distract the driver. Face licking is discouraged.

By Norman Mayersohn

Recent studies have confirmed what many of us already knew: Having a dog in the family is good for your health . Let’s expand that — dogs can make car trips better, too.

This has been clear to me since after college, when I made regular cross-country drives. Without a simple care arrangement for Gus, a German shepherd, I found myself with a co-driver. At first, each time a trip loomed I agonized over what a burden Gus might be, what with the extra stops, the need to carry his food, the challenge of finding dog-friendly motels.

Yet every time, taking Gus worked out to make the trip better. I never left him behind again.

Taking dogs on a car trip is less of a challenge today. Basic guidance, as well as tips on exercise breaks, dealing with motion sickness and other topics, can be found at the websites of AAA and ASPCA , keeping in mind that a dog riding with its head out the window or in the open bed of a pickup risks serious injury .

But some issues related to traveling with dogs are more nuanced. Just as you would do for every family member in the vehicle, assuring the safety of a dog is a must. Dogs should be restrained to avoid interfering with the driver and to prevent injury in a collision.

While the safety systems intended to protect humans are regulated by government agencies, there is little in the way of oversight or equivalent requirements for pet restraints . This is not only a shortfall in keeping dogs secure, it also has serious implications for the driver and passengers. In a collision, an unrestrained animal becomes a projectile with the potential to cause enormous harm. The magnitude of the force is a straightforward calculation based on weight, speed and the distance it takes to stop. In a typical 30 mile-an-hour head-on crash, a 50-pound dog flies forward with an impact force of 1,500 pounds.

No surprise, there are many products that promise to keep dogs comfortable and in place. Lindsey Wolko, founder of the nonprofit Center for Pet Safety , a consumer advocacy group, sorts essential safety gear into two categories: distraction prevention, which keeps the dog out of the front seat, and crash protection, designed to provide the best chance to avoid injuries. The center tests and certifies harnesses, carriers and crates.

[ Wirecutter , the product recommendation site owned by The New York Times Company, has tested and certified recommendations for dog carriers , dog harnesses and collars , travel carriers for small dogs and cats , and more . ]

The same principles apply to cats, though there are fewer available choices of strength-tested safety restraints for cats. Many are comfortable when riding in travel carriers; models designed for smaller dogs and properly secured by the car’s seatbelt or a cargo tie-down connected to an appropriate attachment point will do fine. Do not rely on the light-duty elastic netting or plastic hooks intended for holding groceries in place.

Many families find that the most practical compromise between protection and comfort for their dog is a two-part solution. A travel harness straps around the dog’s neck and behind the front legs, with its main support across the chest. The harness should connect directly to the car’s safety belt, with the belt passing through an attachment point on the back of the harness. Extension tethers connecting the harness to a seatbelt receptacle are not sufficient protection, Ms. Wolko said, and no restraint should ever connect to a conventional dog collar.

An alternate design is the so-called zip line, which is essentially a strap that runs overhead, from side to side, in the back seat. The line is attached to fixed points; typically the passenger grab handles above the doors. A tether from the harness slides freely on the line, much like some dog runs. Again, the intent is to keep the dog out of the front seat and inside the vehicle should a collision occur.

Zip lines, however, do not meet the safety standards of the Center for Pet Safety.

“We believe they need to be removed from the market, as they increase the chance of injury to the pet and to human occupants,” Ms. Wolko said.

So there are important considerations in making any purchase. Look for components that have been strength-tested by an approved laboratory. For example, a conventional walking harness is not tested to the forces exerted in a crash, running the risk that stitching may come apart or the strap connectors may fail. Tethers are tested to assure that the range of movement in a collision — a measurement engineers refer to as excursion — is limited so that the dog does not collide with obstacles in the vehicle that would cause injury.

Testing is a serious business. The Center for Pet Safety uses MGA Research , an independent laboratory that uses test sleds and canine dummies (or in the more polite scientific terminology, replicants). The safety-equipment makers pay for the testing. Evaluations begin with products that are already on the market, and while the center has partnered with Subaru in raising pet-safety awareness, it otherwise gets no input from automakers, Ms. Wolk said.

Another popular product that the Center for Pet Safety does not certify is travel seats — essentially boosters that raise a dog so it can look out the window. Ms. Wolko is concerned about potential ejection of the animal in a crash and the possibility of injuries from glass shards

In the past, a popular choice for owners of sport utility vehicles and station wagons was a partition — usually a metal grate — that confined a dog to the cargo area. That prevents driver distraction, but does little for pet or occupant safety.

A better solution is a carrier or crate for pets, in which they may enjoy greater freedom of movement. Smaller travel carriers are held in place by the seatbelt or supplied anchor straps. In newer cars, the attachment can be made to a connection point provided for child safety seats, known as the LATCH or Isofix anchor.

Carriers of any size should be a strength-tested and certified to maintain structural integrity, with doors that stay shut in the event of an impact. Home or airline crates are not always built to these standards. The tie-down straps and the vehicle attachment points must also be tested to assure that they will perform as claimed.

Buyers should not take a manufacturer’s word that restraint systems and carriers are crash rated. Consumers should verify certification by a third party like the Center for Pet Safety. Certified restraints often carry a price premium, but Ms. Wolko suggested looking at top-level safety gear as investments, noting that joint injuries, such as to the anterior cruciate ligament, known as the A.C.L., will incur high veterinarian bills and a long recovery.

Smarter Driving is a new series all about how to buy, own, drive and maintain your car better. Have something you’d like us to cover? Reach out to Smarter Driving’s editor, James Schembari, at [email protected] .

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Longevity drugs for our canine companions are moving closer to reality. Here is what to know .

Can your dog make you sick? While dog lovers cherish their pets’ affection, their licks and nips can potentially spread harmful germs .

How do you handle an aggressive dog? Trainers weighed in on how owners can help pets keep their cool .

DogTV, a pay-TV service designed for dogs who are stuck at home alone, hopes to tap into a huge new audience of pandemic puppies  — plus their owners.

Traveling With Your Dog in the Car? Follow These 6 Safety Tips

By: Wendy Bedwell Wilson Updated: May 23, 2023

Home / BeInspired / Traveling With Your Dog in the Car? Follow These 6 Safety Tips

Y ou hear about buckling up for safety in the car, and even about strapping in your children, but what about restraining your pets? Pet car safety while traveling with pets is an increasingly popular subject among pet parents—and with good reason! Having pets in the car can lead to distracted driving, which is a leading cause of motor vehicle accidents in the U.S. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration , 15% of injury crashes in 2015 were a result of distracted driving. With almost 30% of pet owners admitting that their pets in the car causes a distraction (AAA/Kurgo Pet Passenger Safety Survey, 2011), it's clear that strapping up your dog is an essential part of car safety.

We talked to Melanie Monteiro, a Los Angeles, California-based pet safety expert and author of “The Safe Dog Handbook," to find out how to reduce the risk of distraction and keep your dog contained and restrained on the road for both their safety and yours.

In This Guide

Car safety hazards for dogs.

According to the AAA/Kurgo Pet Passenger Safety Study, nearly 56% of Americans transport their dog in their car at least once a month. Traveling with pets can be fun, but remember to always be safe when you take a road trip with your furry friend. Here are a few things to consider when taking your pup out for a ride:

Darting Out

Each year, hundreds of pets are lost or injured when they dart out of cars uncontrolled, especially when they find themselves in a strange and busy environment that breeds stress and anxiety. To avoid such heartbreaking situations, make sure your pet is secured or restrained in the backseat.

Paws and Heads Inside

You wouldn’t let your child hang his arms or head outside the windows of a moving vehicle, and the same should go for your pet. Even though your dog may enjoy the smells from the outdoors, make sure you are practicing pet care safety and that your pup is secured inside of the vehicle so they don't run the risk of getting hit by a passing car or falling out.

Front Seat Is for Humans Only

The majority of accidents are caused by distracted driving, and nearly 30% of drivers admit to being distracted by their dog. With harnesses and tethers, you can ensure that your pup remains in the backseat, so that your full attention is on the road. For your own safety and for the safety of your pets, front seats should remain a human-only zone!

6 Car Safety Tips for Dogs

Follow these six tips to keep your pet safe in the car.

1. Choose Your Restraining Device

There are a wide variety of products to restrain your dog in the car, but not all are created equally. Some are more restrictive than others—and some are more protective in the event of a crash. Consider safety first when choosing a restraint for your dog.

Dog Safety Harnesses

Securing your dog with a crash-tested dog harness is the best way to keep him safe on the road—in fact, the Center for Pet Safety, a nonprofit organization that tests pet products for safety, encourages pet parents to use a harness during car travel to protect both the pet and themselves. That's because, even though a harness can be restricting on your pup, it will ensure that your furry friend says in place in the event an accident does occur. Without that protection, your dog could be tossed from their seat during a crash, posing a risk to both them and to others in the car.

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Booster Seats

Dog car seats are designed specifically for smaller dog breeds, to keep them in the backseat but still offer them the chance to look out the window in a comfortable seat. This helps eliminate any distracted driving that may occur while pet parents are attempting to calm dogs who may get nervous without being able to see outside the car. Because these seats keep your dog off of your car's upholstery, you can expect less cleanup in the backseat, too.

Dog Seat Belts

Restraining your dog with a tether or dog seat belt will keep him in the backseat, but also give your pup some room to move, turn and lie down. If your dog is restless, this method may work best for you, as it minimizes your distractions, while still satisfying your pup’s mobility needs. Keep in mind that even though your pup is constrained to the backseat, he may not be fully protected against crash safety in the event of an accident.

Dog car barriers create a bit of separation between you and your pup, which can make you both a better pet parent and driver when it comes to your pup’s safety. These create a strong wall between the front and rear seats of your car to keep your pup in the back, reduce driver distraction, and protect your dog from launching forward during a sudden stop. However, they do not prevent your dog from moving around the rest of the car, and offer less protection than a harness in the event of a crash.

2. No Riding Loose in Truck Beds

If a pickup truck is your only mode of transportation and your pal has to ride in the bed of the truck, do not let him run loose, Monteiro says. Instead, put him in a hard-sided crate that’s tethered down. “Never allow your dog to ride loose in the back of an open truck,” Monteiro says. “This should need no further explanation! If the truck bed is your only option, be sure he’s in a secure, tethered crate and the weather is neither too warm nor too cold.”

iStock.com/andresr

3. Pack a First Aid Kit

Along with your own travel first aid kit, Monteiro recommends including one for your pet. Choose one that includes the basics, like tweezers, bandages, alcohol pads, antiseptic wipes and tape. A pre-packaged, all-purpose first aid kit, like the Kurgo pet first aid kit , will help keep you prepared for any accidents that happen on the road.

iStock.com/RyanJLane

4. Mind the Temperature

Your car might seem like a convenient place to keep your pet while you run errands, but temperatures quickly can become fatal for animals. Monteiro’s rule is to never, ever leave a pet unattended in a vehicle. “Even in the low 70s [Fahrenheit], your car’s internal temperature can rise to deadly levels for a pet in a matter of minutes, even with the windows cracked,” she says. “Conversely, in winter, your car can become too cold.”

iStock.com/maiteali

5. Opt for Eye Protection

If your pal likes to ride with the window open, make sure he’s wearing goggles, like the Doggles original dog goggles , to protect his eyes from flying debris and the beaming sun. Another bonus: He’ll look super cool as you’re cruising down the road.

iStock.com/Marilyn Nieves

6. Make Sure Your Pet Has Proper ID

Should your pet escape or dash off while you’re getting gas, proper identification can reunite you, Monteiro says. Two common methods are identification tags and microchips . As a failsafe, however, it’s a good idea to use both.

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How To Drive Safely With Your Dog

Here’s how to keep you and your pup safe on that long-distance car trip 🐶❤️️.

With the holiday season fast approaching, millions of people and their pets will be hitting the road.

But no matter how many miles you’re logging this winter, dog owners should make sure their canine passengers are safe and secure during the drive.

Before leaving on a long-distance car trip , there are steps you can take to ensure your pup will be comfortable for at least the next few hours. If your dog has a tendency to get carsick, it’s best to avoid feeding her before the drive (or only give her a small meal).

Like traveling with small children, a dog can get antsy in the car, so make time for exercise before she hops in. Plan out regular water and bathroom stops on your route to give your dog time to stretch her legs, Melissa Pezzuto, a behavior consultant with Best Friends Animal Society , tells The Dodo. At a minimum, dogs should get breaks from the car every four to six hours.

It’s impossible to predict every bump in the road, sudden stop or accident (let’s hope not!). To keep you and your pup safe, drive with your dog secured with a dog seat belt , dog car harness or restraint or carrier, according to Pezzuto.

Without one of these features, a dog can roam freely, which can be dangerous for everyone on the road. “ Tens of thousands of car accidents are caused by drivers who were distracted by their unrestrained pets,” Dr. Lisa Lippman , a New York City-based veterinarian, tells The Dodo. “Even worse, dogs that aren’t safely restrained in the car are much more likely to be hurt or killed in the event of a car accident .”

Determining which device is best for your pup depends on the situation, Pezzuto notes. “Crates are great, and usually the easiest, as many dogs already know a crate from their home. You can start with crate training outside the car and then eventually move it into the car,” Pezzuto adds. “Having the familiar space may help some dogs settle down on the ride.”

If you’re pressed for space in the car, a bulky crate might not be your best option. There are many other products on the market that can protect and restrain your dog, such as a car harness that attaches to the seat belt (and has been crash tested), or a car seat/booster seat , for smaller dogs. Make sure you choose one that attaches to a harness, not your dog’s regular collar, to avoid potential neck injury, and that everything is securely attached before starting the engine.

While most of us would love to have our dogs snuggle on our laps during a road trip, both Pezzuto and Lippman stress that dogs should always ride in the back seat, as the passenger airbag may cause them harm. If you want your pup to ride up front, you can also disable your passenger-side airbag before the trip. And never put the crate (or any dog in general) in the back of an open pickup truck.

“Another safety tip is to turn off your power windows so dogs can't accidentally roll the window down,” Pezzuto adds. “If you do want to let in some fresh air, you can open the windows slightly. Don't roll them down too far as dogs will jump out.”

And, most importantly, never leave your dog in the car unsupervised.

Safe travels!

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How To Keep Your Dog Safe In The Car

Inevitably, the day will come when your dog needs to be put in the car. Likely, it’ll be the very first day you get them. How else will you bring that puppy home? Cars can be a dangerous place for dogs, however. See, cars are built to keep humans safe in an accident. Often, designers don’t give thought to other cargo when making a car crash-safe. Airbags designed to keep us safe can actually injure pets. Moreover, an improperly restrained pet can be dangerous to other occupants in the event of a crash. With that in mind, we’ve put together a safety-oriented list of must-haves to keep your dog happy and safe in your car.

Dog Crates For The Car

One of the best ways to do this is to create your own crash structure for your dog. After all, your car provides the same to you. Arguably the best way to tackle this is with a crash-tested dog crate. The Center for Pet Safety is a nonprofit that tests dog-friendly restraints, crates, and other travel accessories to keep your dog safe in the car. They recommend a number of crate options for various sizes of dogs.

We like the Lucky Kennel (bonus points if you go for the ratchet straps to properly secure the kennel). Lucky Kennel offers several size options based on your dog’s weight, ranging from dogs up to 50 pounds to dogs weighing 110 pounds. It features an injection molded reversible door with non-slip rubber feet and a locking paddle latch. Plus, we’re fans of how well-ventilated it is, given how hot some parts of the car can get even while it’s running. However, the crate isn’t overly heavy, despite its beefy stats, at only 38 lbs. In the CPS’ crash testing , the crate held up to testing extremely well. It earned a five-star rating. The only downside is price, but weighing the crate’s $600 price tag against the well-being of a pet feels silly.

Editor's Pick: Lucky Dog Kennel

Should Your Dog Ride In A Carrier?

Still, we understand the crate solution isn’t for everyone. Your car may be too small, for example. Or, alternatively, your dog may be too small. Happily, the CPS has also tested any number of carriers for small dogs that are perfectly safe in a crash. The Diggs Pet Carrier will accommodate dogs up to 18 lbs within its 20x10.8x11.5” frame Like the dog crate above, it also nets a five-star crash rating from the CPS and features a built-in bed and carry straps. This also has the added bonus of being compliant with most airline pet carrier requirements. This story might be focused on dogs, but we strongly recommend taking similar precautions with your cat as well. Thankfully, the Diggs carrier will work just fine for cats as well as dogs.

Editor's Pick: Diggs Pet Carrier

Dog Harnesses For The Car

There is a third middle ground between a carrier and a harness. For many, the CPS’ selection of harnesses will be the most cost-effective option. A harness, while safe, also has the advantage of being less bulky than a pet carrier or a crate. For those dogs that aren’t crate-trained, these also allow a little more freedom of movement for your pet. Sleepypod offers two that are five-star crash-rated by the CPS, the Clickit Terrain Plus and Sport.

Both feature a padded vest, but the Sport features a slimmer design with padding and structure limited to the chest, between the front legs. In contrast, the beefier Terrain Plus features padding all the way around. There are also some subtle size differences, with the Sport fitting dogs with 16.5-40-inch chest sizes, and the Terrain Plus fitting anywhere from 20.5-41.5-inch chests. If we were to pick one specifically for use in the car, we’d have to go for the Terrain plus, simply because it promises more padding. Regardless, the two share a 5-star rating, and you can’t go wrong with either when it comes to keeping your pup safe.

Editor's Pick: Clickit Terrain Plus and Sport

Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter  here .

Chase is an automotive journalist with years of experience in the industry. He writes for outlets like Edmunds and AutoGuide, among many others. When not writing, Chase is in front of the camera over at The Overrun, his YouTube channel run alongside his friend and co-host Jobe Teehan. If he's not writing reviews of the latest in cars or producing industry coverage, Chase is at home in the driver's seat of his own (usually German) sports cars.

More by Chase Bierenkoven

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How to Travel by Car with Your Dog

Last Updated: December 28, 2020 Approved

This article was co-authored by Elisabeth Weiss . Elisabeth Weiss is a Professional Dog Trainer and owner of Dog Relations NYC, a dog training service in New York, New York. Elisabeth relies on science-based, force-free, and reward-based techniques. Elisabeth offers behavior training, puppy manners, body awareness and injury prevention, diet, exercise and dog nutrition services. Her work has been featured in New York Magazine and on the Dog Save the People podcast. She also trained all the dogs in the movie "Heart of a Dog" by Laurie Anderson that features Elisabeth's journey with Laurie Anderson's and Lou Reed's dog Lolabelle and how her passion for playing the keyboards played a significant role in improving her quality of life after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 848,224 times.

Some dogs love to ride in cars and it's fun to take them along with you wherever you go. However, this is not the case for all dogs. Here are some safety tips you should think about before traveling by car with your favorite pet, whether they enjoy the journey or not.

Preparing to Travel with Your Dog

• If you don't want to cage your dog, at least find a way to make sure your dog is secure. For instance if you have an estate car, consider confining your dog to the rear of the car. If you do have a large window boot, put up a wire grid to stop your dog jumping over the back of the seats. Line the dog's area with dog blankets or place it's bed in the corner so it can nap comfortably on the journey. Make sure you don't have any heavy loose items, such as bowls or bottles, as those can become dangerous projectiles in an accident. Most dogs find sleeping an easy way to cope with motion sickness.
• You could also purchase a dog safety seat. While it is not as secure as a cage, it will be safer and more comfortable than a car seat for your dog if you turn or stop the car suddenly. The most popular among these are bucket seats. They attach at the back of the front seats, and the top of the back seats, creating a soft well in which your dog, and any liquids (or solids!) they may create, are contained. These can be made with a blanket or purchased cheaply.
• Car seatbelts for dogs are a great tool if you don't want your dogs confined, or if you only have a two-seater car. Make sure to attach them to a harness, and not a collar. They clip into the female buckle of a car seatbelt on one end, and have a standard lead clip on the other. By attaching them to a harness, you ensure the dog is secured by the body, and their neck won't be damaged in an emergency.
• If you use a cage, make sure it is secured. Make sure it is very secure to prevent it from moving if you stop suddenly or get hit. An unsecured cage can be just as, or even more dangerous than an unsecured dog.

• Squeaky toys are also undesirable as they will drive you crazy.

Going on a Long Drive with Your Dog

• This is especially important if your going on a long journey. Four hours is your average dog's absolute limit for driving without a longer break, but as a driver it's recommended you take a break after every two hours of driving. Make sure you stop somewhere grassy and relatively quiet (not right beside the road), lock your car, feed your dog some food and water, and take him for a walk so he can let off some of his excess energy.
• If you stop by the highway your dog MUST be on a lead for his own safety.

• If you stop for a meal, park your car in the shade, and let the windows down about an inch each to let cool air in. Put a bowl of cool water in the car for your dog and unbuckle him or her if in a dog seat. Lock your car doors, and order your food to go.
• Try to spend no more than five minutes away from the car if it is a warm day, as you don't want your dog to overheat. If your stop will take a bit longer, for instance you are waiting in a long queue for food, tie your dog to a post either just inside the front door or just outside in a place where you can see it. At least he or she will be out of the heat while you wait. Make sure to tie the dog with secure knots so it doesn't escape. Tight knots will also mean it will be less likely for someone to steal your dog.

Expert Q&A

• If your dog has a favorite towel or blanket be sure to bring it in order to comfort your pet. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 0
• Try to have your (non-toy*) puppy's first car rides be "on an empty stomach" by withholding food for 2-4 hours before the ride. Several rides without nausea will help tremendously to prevent the puppy from developing car sickness. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0
• If you are traveling more than 24 hours, look beforehand for a pet-friendly hotel for you to unwind and for your dog too. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0

• Some dogs can get very queasy. Keep a close eye on it and line the back seat with old blankets or newspaper if you want to be on the safe side. Thanks Helpful 42 Not Helpful 2

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.cesarsway.com/dog-care/travel/dog-is-my-co-pilot
• ↑ https://www.cesarsway.com/dog-care/travel/cesars-travel-tips
• ↑ Elisabeth Weiss. Professional Dog Trainer. Expert Interview. 3 September 2020.

About This Article

To travel by car with your dog, you should restrain it with either a cage, a safety seat, or a seat belt designed for dogs, which will keep it safe and prevent distractions while you’re driving. Before your go for your drive, exercise your dog so that it will be tired and less anxious or hyperactive in the car. Additionally, pack supplies such as water, treats, and a few chew toys to help keep your dog occupied. You should also avoid feeding your dog right before a car trip to prevent it from getting carsick or relieving itself in the car. For more advice from our Veterinary co-author, like how to prepare a hyperactive dog for a car trip, keep reading. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to drive safely with a dog: Shop crash-tested harnesses, crates and more

If you have a pet, you know how difficult it is to leave your favorite companion at home. Fortunately, there are many reasons to bring your furry friend along on a road trip, whether you’re embarking on a week-long camping adventure or heading to the beach during the warmer months. But did you know there are several safety precautions to consider whenever you travel with your dog? These include using appropriate restraints in the car, packing up-to-date vaccination records and ensuring you have essentials like food , water bowls and waste bags on hand. 

If you’re planning on taking your dog along for a car ride but don’t know where to start, we spoke to veterinarians and pet safety experts about the best ways to keep your dog safe. We also rounded up expert-recommended and crash-tested crates, carriers and safety harnesses.

SKIP AHEAD Best crash-tested carriers | Best crash-tested crates | Best crash-tested harnesses | What kind of car restraint is best for your dog? | How to safely travel with your dog

Our top picks

• Best carrier: Away Travel Carrier 
• Best crate: Gunner Kennel G1
• Best travel harness: Sleepypod Click-It Terrain

select The best ways to keep your home free of pet hair

How we picked the best crates, carriers and harnesses.

We kept the following in mind while picking safe travel restraints for dogs, based on expert guidance:  

• Crash-tested: Look for travel enclosures that have undergone crash testing by the Center for Pet Safety , a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash tests car restraints and containment devices, according to Wendy Hauser , veterinarian and special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance. “The pet products industry is highly unregulated and many brands subjectively ‘pass’ their products if they test them in the lab,” says CPS founder Lindsey Wolko. This can give pet owners a false sense of security. “Most carriers on the market only offer distraction prevention, which is important, but in a crash, they may not perform as you would expect them to,” she says.
• Type of car restraint: There are four main types of restraints: carriers, crates, harnesses and booster seats. Carriers and crates, especially hard-sided options, are safest because they keep your pet secure using your car’s seat belt system or built-in anchors, according to our experts. Travel harnesses that fit properly can keep your dog securely attached to a seat belt strap but won’t leave them feeling trapped as they would in an enclosed carrier. Booster seats generally aren’t recommended by our experts, who note that you should only use one in conjunction with a travel harness and never attach it to the vehicle’s seat belt system, center console or seat.
• Size and weight of your pet: Check the weight and size guidelines of the dog carrier, harness or car seat to make sure it’ll fit your pet securely and comfortably, according to our experts. If a harness or seat is too big, they may be able to wriggle out during the ride, creating a distracting and dangerous situation.

The best crash-tested carriers, crates and harnesses for dogs

To help you determine which products are safest for your companion, we’ve compiled the safety products and containment devices that are crash test-certified by the CPS , which put products through rigorous testing to determine the strength and effectiveness of latches, zippers, stitching and built-in reinforcements.

Best crash-tested carriers

Away travel carrier.

This option from the popular travel brand Away is designed for both car and airline travel and won a Select Best for Your Pet award for best overall travel carrier. It’s  made from water-resistant nylon and has latches on the side that securely fasten to a car’s seat belt system, according to the brand. It has top and side openings and comes with machine-washable sherpa bedding on the inside to help your pet feel comfortable. It also has multiple pockets to keep your belongings secure and the front entry point has fully see-through mesh (if you want to cover the mesh, it includes a piece of fabric that rolls down). The Away carrier comes in two colors — black and blue — and you can personalize it with your initials for an additional $35.

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Water-resistant: Yes | Washable: Yes, bedding | Dimensions : 18.7 in. L x 10.8 in. W x 10.75 in. H

Away Pet Carrier

Diggs passenger travel carrier.

This travel carrier from Select staff-favorite brand Diggs has custom seat belt clips and a buckle strap to keep your dog secure during car travel. It’s recommended for dogs weighing up to 18 pounds (the brand does offer an inflatable travel crate for larger dogs weighing up to 80 pounds). The carrier has a built-in bed and pee pad, and it has both front and side openings that make it easier for your pet to get in and out of the carrier, according to the brand. It also has three outer pockets and a detachable cross-body strap. It comes in four colors: navy, slate gray , blush pink and charcoal gray .

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Dimensions: 20 in. L x 10.8 in. W x 11.5 in. H

Paravel Cabana Carrier

The Cabana Carrier is designed from Paravel’s EcoCraft canvas, which is made of 38 recycled plastic bottles, according to the brand. It has a washable fleece lining, multiple pockets, a trolley sleeve so it can attach to your suitcase and mesh panels to encourage airflow inside. It also folds down completely, so it’s easy to store away when you aren’t using it.

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Water-resistant: Yes | Washable: Yes, fleece lining | Dimensions: 11 in. L x 11 in. W x 20.5 in. H

Sleepypod Atom

The Sleepypod Atom is designed for smaller pets and works for both vehicle and airline travel (although experts recommend looking at your airline’s carrier size requirements before boarding). This carrier weighs only 3.4 pounds and has a buckle on both sides that can secure it to the seat belt in the rear seat of the vehicle. The included plush bedding on the inside is also removable and machine-washable. 

Pet weight: Up to 12 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: Yes, bedding | Dimensions: 17 in. L x 8.5 in. W x 10.5 in. H

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

The original Sleepypod includes velcro positioning points to secure a seat belt, removable and machine-washable interior bedding and mesh panels for breathability. “The bottom of the carrier can be used as a bed inside the home, making acclimation training easier for the pet,” says Wolko. It’s also offered in a mini size , which is certified for pets 7 pounds and under and is considered an appropriate size for several airlines.

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: Yes, bedding | Dimensions: 17 in. L x 8.5 in. W x 10.5 in. H  

Best crash-tested crates

Gunner kennel g1.

This crate earned a 5-star safety rating from the CPS in both the crate and carrier-class — it’s the only product that has earned a dual certification, says Wolko. It has double-wall construction that provides impact protection for your pet, according to the brand. It also has a reversible door design that lets you open the crate from either side, and the door is reinforced with an aluminum frame that can keep your dog safely contained in case of a car crash, according to Gunner. It comes in four sizes: small, medium, intermediate and large. Though the crate doesn’t provide exact size and weight guidelines for dogs, the brand does offer a size guide that gives recommendations based on your dog’s weight and length and the size of your vehicle.

Pet weight: Varies based on crate size | Water-resistant: Yes | Washable: Yes, exterior | Dimensions: 24.5 in. L x 18.625 in. W x 19 in. H (small), 29.5 in. L x 20.5 in. W x 23.5 in. H (medium), 34 in. L x 23 in. W x 28.5 in. H (intermediate), 40.25 in. L x 28 in. W x 33.25 in. H (large) 

Gunner G1 Kennel

Lucky kennel.

The Lucky Kennel can be a worthwhile option if you’re traveling with larger dogs. It has reversible doors and ventilation holes to keep air flowing on hot days, and it comes in two sizes (intermediate and large). If you have more than one pet, you can stack multiple Lucky Kennels on top of each other. The brand also offers a comfort pad that fits inside the crate and gives your dog a layer of cushion for the ride.

Pet weight: Up to 75 lbs (intermediate) and 110 lbs (large) | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Dimensions: 32.5 in. L x 22.5 in. W x 24.5 in. H (intermediate), 38 in. L x 24 in. W x 29 in. H (large)

Rock Creek Aluminum Dog Crate

This durable crate has an aluminum metal frame and comes in four sizes: medium, large, XL and XXL. It has a lockable door latch and secondary latches to prevent dogs from escaping, according to the brand. You can stack multiple of these crates on top of each other, and it comes in seven colors, including white, blue , pink and green . For dogs with crate anxiety who might escape, the brand also offers a door guard to add another layer of protection. Though the brand does not provide specific weight requirements for each size, Rock Creek does offer a size guide with pet height recommendations. Keep in mind this is the heaviest option on our list, weighing 38 pounds for the medium size and 79 pounds for the XXL size. 

Pet weight: Varies based on crate size and pet height | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Dimensions: 30.5 in. L x 20 in. W x 22.5 in. H (medium), 36.5 in. L x 23.5 in. W x 27.75 in. H (large), 42.5 in. L x 28.5 in. W x 32.5 in. H (XL), 48 in. L x 32.25 in. W x 35 in. H (XXL)

Best crash-tested harnesses

Sleepypod click-it terrain plus.

This safety harness from Sleepypod is certified crash-tested by the CPS for dogs up to 110 pounds and has a three-point design, which secures your dog’s torso to the seat using your car’s seat belt system. It also has shock-absorbing sleeves and a padded vest for additional security and comfort, according to the brand. While it’s designed for car safety, it also doubles as a walking harness. It comes in four sizes ranging from small to XL . Keep in mind that Sleepypod harnesses may not provide a safe or proper fit for certain breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, Afghan Hounds and Borzoi due to their unique body types, according to the brand.

Pet weight: From 18 lbs up to 110 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Chest size: 20.5-25.5 in.(small), 25.5-28 in. (medium), 28-31 in. (large), 31-41.5 in. (XL)

Sleepypod Click-It Sport Plus

Lightweight and designed for everyday use, the Sleepypod Click-It Sport also passed the CPS crash test for dogs up to 90 pounds. Like the Click-It Terrain, this option comes in four sizes — small, medium , large and XL — and has three points of contact to attach to the seat belt and reduce forward and side-to-side movement, according to the brand. It also doubles as a walking harness and has a padded vest with reflective strips to help you see your pup better at night.

Pet weight: From 18 lbs up to 90 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Chest size: 16.5-22 in.(small), 22.5-28 in. (medium), 28.5-34 in. (large), 34.5-40 in. (XL)

Other dog travel essentials

Kong water bottle.

A travel water bottle to ensure your dog is getting ample water during road trips is always important, especially during hot weather and long trips, according to our experts. The Kong Water Bottle is a Select Best for Your Pet award winner thanks to its lid which acts as a bowl. Its small handle and shape made it easy to pour, according to Select social commerce editor Sadhana Daruvuri, who uses this bottle to keep her dog Bandit hydrated while on the go. The bottle is made of stainless steel and it comes in two sizes and four colors.

Kurgo First Aid Kit for Dogs & Cats

Wolko recommends taking a pet-friendly first aid kit while traveling in case of an emergency. This 50-piece option includes cotton swabs, antiseptic towelettes, gauze pads, sting relief pads and more, all inside a functional multi-compartment pack. In addition to a first aid kit, our experts recommend researching an emergency vet at your destination and having their contact number handy.

Kurgo First Aid Kit for Dogs & Cats

Earth rated dog poop bags.

No matter where you travel with your dog, waste bags are an essential item to take to avoid leaving messes behind. I use this option from Earth Rated for my dog Bella every time we come back from walks, and I love that they’re durable and don’t rip when I’m wiping the rougher parts of her paws. The bags come in either a 120-pack or a 270-pack, and you can choose to purchase either fragrance-free or lavender-scented bags. These bags block odors and prevent leaking, according to the brand.

Dog by Dr. Lisa Wipes

Pet wipes can serve multiple purposes on a trip, from cleaning up dog-related messes to wiping their paws or faces whenever they get dirty. One of our favorite at-home grooming products , these wipes include plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber extract and coconut to moisturize and soothe the skin, according to the brand. They’re also a Select staff favorite: I use them to wipe Bella’s paws every time we come home from a walk, and Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin says they smell great and are super gentle, so they don’t irritate her dog Chance’s sensitive skin.

select Spy on your dogs and cats while you're gone with these pet cameras

What kind of car restraint is best for your dog.

Much like humans wearing seat belts in case of a crash, dogs should be properly strapped into a crash-tested restraint, whether that’s an enclosed pet carrier or a travel safety harness. This not only reduces the chance of serious injury to your dog during an accident but can also keep them from escaping inside the car and distracting the driver. “Dogs often don’t realize the dangers of interfering with a driver, so many may try to climb on the driver or get in their lap — especially if they are anxious,” says Dr. Wendy Mandese , a veterinarian and clinical associate professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.

There are four main types of car restraints for pets: carriers, crates, travel harnesses and car seats or boosters. Below, we list the differences between each type and how to use them properly. Though these all have their unique pros and cons, our experts agree that they should be independently crash-tested by the CPS to make sure it’s safe outside of brand claims.

Pet carriers and crates

Carriers are covered enclosures that can be strapped in using a seat belt or ISOFIX/LATCH anchors , which are connected to the vehicle’s seat and designed for installing children’s car seats without using a seat belt. “There are two types of carriers: those that only prevent distraction and those that offer crash protection,” says Wolko. You can prevent this by keeping carriers connected to the seat and closed while the car is moving. 

Crates, on the other hand, are typically larger and heavier than carriers. “Crash protection crates have anchor straps that are used to secure the kennel to the vehicle via the available connections in the cargo area,” says Wolko. 

“Carriers and crates are the preferred options for safe travel because they confine the pet,” says Dr. Christina Carlo , a veterinarian and the medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital. Hard-sided crates and carriers specifically are the safest option for your pet because they provide the most protection against impact, according to Dr. Dana Varble , chief veterinary officer at the North American Veterinary Community.

While carriers usually go in the back seat, crates typically go in the cargo area of an SUV. “They’re typically larger in size and heavier, [and] therefore they should not be secured on the rear seat of the vehicle,” said Wolko. 

Like all other pet travel products, carriers and crates should be independently crash-tested by the CPS to ensure safety outside of brand claims.

Travel harnesses

Travel harnesses connect to the vehicle’s seat belt system, which can safely keep your pet secured in your car. “Harnesses with seat belt clips are a great choice as they allow some freedom for your pet to sit up or lay down and experience the fun of a car ride without the risk of being loose,” says Varble. Make sure the harness properly fits your dog — it shouldn’t feel loose and it should fit snugly on their body and chest — and has a handle that can securely attach to a seat belt strap, says Carlo. And just like crates and carriers, these harnesses need to be CPS crash-tested to ensure they meet safety standards.

Car seats or booster seats

Car seats serve as open-air suspended seats or booster seats, and some can be anchored by the seat belt. Others may look like a catcher’s mitt.

Because car seats are typically open, they can serve as a good way to let your dog look out of the window and reduce car sickness, which is common in puppies, according to Mandese. You should always pair a car seat with a safety harness to ensure your dog is secure and prevent them from flying out of their seat in case of a crash.

However, there are a few safety concerns surrounding car seats, and neither our experts nor CPS recommend them to pet owners. Many use the vehicle’s seat belt system to stay secure, but you should only use this system to secure your dog’s travel harness, according to Wolko. 

If you do use a booster seat, it should be in conjunction with a travel harness, which reduces the risk of injury in case of a crash since it anchors them down. “Boosters are not safe in an accident because they are open and the only strap controlling the pet is usually small and connected to a collar around the neck unless the pet is wearing a harness,” says Carlo. You should also only secure the seat using the car’s ISOFIX/LATCH anchors. “This will allow the seat belt system to be used independently to secure the harness the pet will need to wear,” Wolko says.

Some car seats may require you to connect them directly to the seat, but these connections are usually very weak and will not prevent injury, according to Wolko. Other pet travel seats connect to the console between the driver and passenger seats, which is both unsteady and unsafe, she says. You should also opt for a rear-facing car seat and avoid forward-facing options since your pet can fly out during a crash, according to Dr. Kristen Nelson , a veterinarian and author of “ Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life .”

How to safely travel with your dog

Though car restraints may vary in type and effectiveness, one thing remains consistent among all of our experts: You should never place pets and carriers, harnesses, car seats or any other restraint in the front seat of your car because the airbags can seriously hurt your pet. You should securely place restraints and enclosures in the rear seat or the cargo area of the vehicle, according to Nelson.

Never let your dog ride in the back of an open truck because it can lead to severe injuries, and you should avoid letting your dog ride with their head sticking out of an open window since that can lead to eye injuries from road debris, according to Mandese. 

When it comes to keeping your dog secure, tightening seat belts is key. “The most common mistake is leaving the seat belts loose to make the pet more comfortable,” says Nelson. “Unfortunately, the extra room lets them fly during a crash.” However, you should never connect the internal tether of the carrier or the seat belt to your pet’s collar since it can result in neck fractures or airway damage if you were to brake suddenly, says Mandese.

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Wendy Hauser is a veterinarian and the founder of Peak Veterinary Consulting . She is also the special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance.
• Lindsey Wolko is the founder of the Center for Pet Safety , a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash-tests car restraints and containment devices for pets.
• Dr. Wendy Mandese is a veterinarian and clinical associate professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.
• Dr. Christina Carlo is a veterinarian and the medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital.
• Dr. Dana Varble is the chief veterinary officer at the North American Veterinary Community.
• Dr. Kristen Nelson is a veterinarian and author of “Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life.”

Why trust Select?

Mili Godio is an editor at Select who covers a variety of pet topics, including dog food , beds , treats , toys and more. For this article, Godio spoke to six veterinarians and pet safety experts about how to safely travel in a car with your dog. She also compiled their recommendations for the best crash-tested carriers, crates and harnesses to consider and researched dozens of options on the market based on the experts’ guidance.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Mili Godio is an updates editor for Select on NBC News.

Dog Breed Pro

15 Things You Should Never Do When Traveling with Your Dog

Posted: August 7, 2024 | Last updated: August 7, 2024

"Vintage Plane, Woman And Her Dog" by Joey Z1 is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Neglect Proper Preparation

Forget Important Documents

Ignore Your Dog’s Comfort

Leave Your Dog Unattended in a Vehicle

Overlook Your Dog’s Exercise Needs

Feed Your Dog Right Before Traveling

Neglect Crate or Seat Belt Safety

Assume All Hotels Are Pet-Friendly

Ignore Local Pet Laws and Regulations

Expose Your Dog to New Environments Without Supervision

Forget to Pack Your Dog’s Medications

Neglect Flea and Tick Prevention

Overlook Your Dog’s Behavioral Cues

Assume Your Dog Will Behave as Usual

Travel Without a Plan for Emergencies

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• Importation
• Bringing an Animal into the U.S.
• Bringing a Dog into the U.S.
• Bringing Animal Products into the U.S.
• Bringing Human Remains into the U.S.
• Laws and Regulations
• Documents for Veterinarians to Complete for Importing a Dog into the U.S.
• Information for Airlines on Dogs Being Imported into the U.S.
• View All Home

CDC Dog Import Form  and Instructions

At a glance.

Starting August 1, 2024, the CDC Dog Import Form is required to bring your dog into the U.S.

CDC Dog Import Form

Form: CDC Dog Import Form

Below are instructions on how to fill out the form for dogs coming from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries and for dogs coming from high-risk countries.

Filling out the CDC Dog Import Form

This form should be completed by the person importing (bringing) the dog into the United States (the importer, owner, or shipper). If the person importing the dog has difficulty completing this form such as due to a disability, this form may be filled out by someone else acting on behalf of the importer. After you submit this form, a receipt will be sent to the email address you provided. Please check that the email address is correct before submitting the form.

If the dog is traveling by air, you must show the receipt to the airline before boarding.

You must also retain the receipt and be able to show the receipt to U.S. Customs and Border Protection when the dog arrives in the United States.

Important‎

Dogs coming from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries.

The receipt is valid for one dog to enter the United States multiple times within six months from the date of issuance. Complete another CDC Dog Import Form and obtain another receipt for additional dogs or future entries after six months.

Section A- Person Importing the Animal

Enter information about the person bringing the dog to the United States.

This person may be:

• the dog owner,
• the shipper (consignor),
• a flight parent: a person transporting one or more dogs for the purpose of rescue, resale, or adoption on behalf of another person or an organization
• any other person bringing a dog to the United States

That person’s passport number or driver’s license number, or the air waybill (AWB) number for the dog (provided by the airline) must be entered.

To enter the date of birth, click the calendar, select the month and year of birth and then click the day of birth.

Enter the email address where the receipt for this form should be sent. Ensure this email address is correct as this is where the CDC Dog Import Form receipt will be sent when you submit the form.

Enter the phone number of the person bringing the dog to the United States.

Section B- Animal Information

Enter the dog’s name (required)

The following fields are optional:

• Age of the dog in years or months.
• Sex of the dog.
• Breed of the dog. Select “mixed breed/other” if you cannot find the breed of the dog listed, or if you do not know the breed of the dog
• Color and markings of the dog.

Select the importation purpose (required).

Select “Personal Pet” if the dog is a personal pet or emotional support animal.

Select “Commercial” if the dog is being adopted from another country, sold to a person in the United States, or being brought to the United States by or on behalf of a rescue organization or a business.

Select “Service animal” only for a dog that meets the definition of a service animal used in federal regulations ( 14 CFR 382.3 ), which states a service animal is “a dog, regardless of breed or type, that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Animal species other than dogs, emotional support animals, comfort animals, companionship animals, and service animals in training are not service animals for the purposes of this part.” If “Service animal” is selected, the dog must be traveling with the person with a disability whom it is trained to assist.

Select "Government-owned" if the dog is a working dog owned by a U.S. federal, state, territorial, or local government agency, or a foreign government agency, and the purpose of bringing it to the United States is to serve as part of its official duties.

Select "Education, Exhibition, or Research" if the dog is being imported for one of the following reasons:

• teaching of a defined educational program at the university level or equivalent;
• as part of a public display open to the general public during routinely scheduled hours for entertainment in which the dog is trained to perform some behavior or action; or
• for research following a defined protocol and other standards for research projects as normally conducted at the university level.

Section C- Travel Information

Complete the information below for the first trip when you will use the receipt for this form.

Travel Type: Select how the dog will be traveling to the United States (air, land, or sea).

Country or area of departure: Select the country or area from which the dog is departing for the United States. Note that only dog rabies-free and low-risk countries are listed. If the dog is arriving from a high-risk country, or has been in a high-risk country in the last 6 months, please return to the top of the page, select “Yes” to the question “Has the dog been in a country that is considered a high-risk country for dog rabies in the last six months?”

Arrival date: Select the date on which the dog will arrive in the United States.

Section D- Signature

Read the statements in this section carefully. You are making attestations and statements of understanding that may subject you to penalties, including criminal penalties.

If you are completing the form on behalf of an importer who has difficulty completing this form such as due to a disability, read the statements aloud to the importer and confirm they understand the information provided and agree to the Terms of Acceptance.

Check the box indicating one of two options: either 1) you are the importer and you have read the statements and understand that typing your name constitutes a legal signature or 2) you are authorized to act on behalf of the importer, the information on the form was provided by the importer, and the importer acknowledges and agrees to the Terms of Acceptance.

For the signature:

• If you are the importer: Type your name: first (given) name, middle initial if you have one, and last name (surname) into the text box. Enter today’s date as mm/dd/yyyy.
• If you are acting on behalf of the importer: Type [your name] on behalf of [name of importer]. Enter today’s date as mm/dd/yyyy.

Once you are finished entering information and have checked that it is accurate, click the blue box on the lower right that says “Submit.”

An email should be sent to the email address provided in the next 15 minutes with a receipt. That email will come from [email protected]. If it does not arrive in the inbox, the spam folder may need to be checked.

Please retain a copy of your CDC Dog Import Form receipt. You must present the receipt to airline if the dog is traveling by air and U.S. Customs and Border Protection on arrival in the U.S.

Dogs coming from high-risk countries

The receipt is valid for one dog to enter the United States one time. Complete another CDC Dog Import Form and obtain another receipt for future entries or other dogs.

That person’s passport number, driver’s license number, or the air waybill (AWB) number for the dog (provided by the airline) must be entered.

Physical address where the dog will be located in the United States.

Enter the name of the recipient or consignee of the dog. This is the person who will receive the dog in the United States. This may be the same person who is traveling with or transporting the dog.

Enter the street address where the dog will be located after arrival in the United States. For example, this may be the home where the dog lives, or a hotel address if the dog will stay at a hotel. If the dog will be in the United States for a brief period (several hours), enter the address where it will be the majority of the time.

Enter the phone number and email address of the recipient or consignee of the dog.

Enter the age of the dog in years or months.

Enter the sex of the dog.

Select the breed of the dog. Select “mixed breed/other” if you cannot find the breed of the dog listed, or if you do not know the breed of the dog.

State the color and markings of the dog.

Enter the microchip number of the dog. If the dog has multiple microchip numbers, enter the microchip number that is readable and documented on the official veterinary documentation accompanying your dog. Contact your veterinarian for assistance if you cannot find your dog’s microchip number on its medical records.

Attach a photo of the dog showing its face and body (see example below). Only .jpg, .jpeg, or .png files are accepted. Maximum file size is 1mb. If your file is larger than 1mb or in a different format, you must save the file as one of the acceptable file types and reduce the file size. Dogs less than one year old should have this photo taken within 15 days before they will arrive in the United States.

Select the importation purpose.

Select “Commercial” if the dog is being adopted from another country, sold to a person in the United States, being brought to the United States by or on behalf of a rescue organization, or moved to the United States on behalf of a business.

Select “Service animal” only for a dog that meets the definition of a service animal used in federal regulations ( 14 CFR 382.3 ), which states a service animal is “a dog, regardless of breed or type, that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Animal species other than dogs, emotional support animals, comfort animals, companionship animals, and service animals in training are not service animals for the purposes of this part.”

If this importation purpose is selected, the service animal must be traveling with the person with a disability whom the dog is trained to assist.

Select "Government-owned" if the dog is a working dog owned by a government agency AND is serving U.S. federal, state, territorial, or local government or a foreign government agency as part of its official duties.

• as part of a public display open to the general public during routinely scheduled hours for entertainment in which the dog is trained to perform some behavior or action and is part of a routinely scheduled show, performance, or exhibition, open to the general public; or

Each question that follows will depend upon your answers.

1. Does the dog have either a Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccination form or a USDA-endorsed export health certificate?

The Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccination form must be completed by a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)-accredited veterinarian and digitally endorsed by USDA before the dog leaves the United States. USDA-accredited veterinarians can access the form and its instructions at Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS) Help Page

If the dog is traveling with a USDA-endorsed export health certificate issued before the dog left the United States, note that it must:

• be digitally endorsed by USDA, and
• contain the dog’s microchip number, and
• list the dog’s current and valid rabies vaccination information, and
• include the dog’s age (showing the dog will be six months of age or older at time of return to the United States),
• have been issued for travel to the high-risk country from which the dog is returning, and
• have been issued no later than July 31, 2025.

If you have either of those documents because the dog was vaccinated in the United States and the veterinarian provided you with copies endorsed by the USDA, select “yes” to that question then proceed to the “travel type” section.

If the dog does not have a current, valid, U.S. document demonstrating the rabies vaccination, select “no” to that question.

2. Do you have a CDC Dog Import Permit?

CDC Dog Import Permits are no longer being issued, but existing permits will be valid through August 31, 2024 or the expiration date of the permit, whichever is earlier.

If " yes" then you should choose the port of entry (POE) in the dropdown that matches the POE listed on your import permit.

If "no" then select no and move on to the next question.

3. If the dog has been in a high-risk country for dog rabies and does not have a U.S.-issued rabies vaccination, or a CDC Dog Import Permit, answer the question: Does the dog have a current and valid Certification of Foreign-Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form that has been endorsed by an official government veterinarian of the exporting country?

This is a required document for dogs that have been in a high-risk country in the six months before entry to the United States that do not have a current U.S-issued rabies vaccination.

If you do NOT have this document, you must obtain it from the dog’s veterinarian and ensure it is endorsed by an official government veterinarian. Select “yes” once you have this required document then proceed to the “travel type” section.

• If the dog is a foreign-vaccinated dog traveling from a high-risk country, you will only be able to select the ports of entry with a CDC-registered animal care facility, all of which are airports. These are the ONLY ports of entry where the dog may enter the United States. You must select the airport with the CDC-registered animal care facility where your dog has a reservation. The only exception to this requirement is for service animals arriving at a U.S. seaport if they meet all entry requirements including a valid rabies serology titer.
• The options in this field depend upon where the dog has been and where/if the dog was vaccinated. If you cannot view the type of travel or port of entry that you were planning to use, this means that the selections you have made on the form do not allow that particular type of travel or arrival location. Please review the requirements at www.cdc.gov/dogtravel .

Country or area of departure: Select the country or area from which the dog is departing for the United States.

• This should be the country or area in which the official government veterinarian has endorsed the documents.

Select all countries and areas the dog has been in during the six months before arriving in the United States.

State: Select the state or Preclearance location where the dog will enter the United States.

• If your dog is eligible to arrive via a Preclearance port (only U.S.-vaccinated dogs or dogs from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries), the Preclearance port will appear in the drop-down menu for “State of Arrival”. You will select it there, then select it a second time in the “Port of Entry” field. For example, if your flight will travel from a dog rabies-free or low-risk country to the United States via Canada, and you will clear U.S. Customs in Calgary, you would select “PRECLEARANCE - CALGARY” in the “State” dropdown and then select USCBP CALGARY PRECLEAR in the “Port of Entry” field.

Port of entry: Choose the port of entry (for example, the airport or land border crossing) where your dog will arrive in the United States or clear U.S. Customs.

Indicate the carrier and flight number for arrivals by air, the license plate information for arrivals by land, or the vessel name for arrivals by sea.

Indicate how the dog is traveling for dogs arriving by air:

• “Cargo” is for dogs traveling unaccompanied and in the cargo hold, “checked baggage” is for dogs that are in the baggage hold and are traveling with an assigned person on the same flight, and “hand-carried” are those dogs traveling inside the cabin with a person.

Check the box indicating one of two options, either 1) you are the importer and you have read the statements and understand that typing your name constitutes a legal signature or 2) you are authorized to act on behalf of the importer, the information on the form was provided by the importer, and the importer acknowledges and agrees of to the Terms of Acceptance.

CDC regulations govern the importation of animals and animal products capable of causing human disease.

For Everyone

Health care providers, public health.

Strict rules about flying with dogs start Thursday, after months of confusion

Summer is a busy travel season for both people and their pups.

Heather Blas, a pet relocation specialist at Continental Pet Relocation, was already trying to navigate the hectic time for moving and seasonal airline restrictions when a slew of new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention requirements for bringing dogs into the United States "turned things upside down." As the deadline for the new rules drew closer, she constantly scoured the CDC's website for the latest guidance and asked for advice from fellow pet shippers around the world who were hearing contradictory information.

"We started out as kind of a task force like, 'let's make sense of this, let's put all this together so we can have (the) correct information for people to get their dogs into the U.S.,' " Blas said. "And it's just become a circus, a literal circus, as clear as mud trying to relay the information to people."

The new requirements from the CDC are aimed at preventing the spread of rabies and go into effect Thursday. The change prompted multiple airlines to stop allowing dogs to travel to the U.S. with their families altogether, causing headaches for everyone from military families and diplomats to pet shippers and animal rescue organizations.

"The way the CDC has implemented these regulations for a dog coming into the U.S. was just, I don't even know the vocabulary for how poorly it was executed and communicated," Blas said.

What do the new rules say?

The CDC announced in May that beginning Aug. 1, dog owners must complete a new form and all dogs entering the U.S. must be over six months old, have a microchip and “appear healthy upon arrival.”

Additional restrictions and requirements apply depending on where the dog was vaccinated and if the dog has recently been in one of the more than 100 countries identified as high risk for rabies. A dog might have to pass a blood test or be forced to quarantine for 28 days in a CDC-registered facility, the costs of which fall back on owners, according to the CDC’s website. It can also be difficult to provide proof of a dog's whereabouts, especially one that was a stray.

The CDC said in a statement announcing the changes that the new regulations build on lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic when the importation of dogs from countries with a high risk of rabies was temporarily suspended.

The CDC did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the criticism of the new rules from travelers and industry experts.

"The regulation also more closely aligns with the World Organisation for Animal Health’s standards for the international movement of dogs from countries with a high risk of dog rabies," the statement said. "Furthermore, it addresses recent challenges seen with international dog importations, such as fraudulent documentation and dogs housed in unsafe conditions if they didn’t meet requirements for entry to the United States."

If a dog was vaccinated in another country and has traveled through a high-risk country, it must also now enter the U.S. through one of six ports where there is an animal care facility, like the ARK Import Export Center at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, according to Elizabeth Schuette, president and CEO of the ARK. Schuette is worried the new restrictions will dramatically increase the number of dogs that come through her facility, which handles transport for not only dogs and cats but also horses and zoo animals.

“The biggest concern that I have is being able to provide the quality service that we're known for and continue that with possibly this huge volume of animals coming,” she said.

According to the CDC, airlines will also be required to create an air waybill for each dog transported to the U.S., a document Schuette said was previously only required for dogs being transported as cargo. Airlines can request a waiver for this rule, but several, including Lufthansa , Finnair , Swiss International Air Lines , and Austrian Airlines, initially announced they would no longer allow dogs to fly to America in the cabin or in baggage hold as a result.

"Trying to implement that on a very short period of time is virtually impossible," Schuette said.

Jorg Waber, a spokesperson for Lufthansa, told USA TODAY existing bookings for dogs won't be affected, provided that all CDC requirements are met, but new bookings for dogs for flights on or after Aug. 1 will only be accepted at six airports in Washington, D.C., New York City, Atlanta, Miami, Los Angeles and Philadelphia. Marjo Hamalainen, a spokesperson for Finnair, said the airline has applied for permission to continue transporting dogs to the United States without an air waybill.

Lawmakers sent multiple letters to the CDC raising concerns and asking officials to delay implementation of the new rules, which are meant to prevent the reintroduction of the viral disease that's transmitted through biting.

Rabies was eliminated from dogs in the U.S. in 2007. About a million dogs enter the country each year, and since 2015, four rabid dogs have been found entering the U.S., The Associated Press reported . Jennifer Skiff, director of international at Animal Wellness Action, said the fact that the handful of cases were caught showed the system was working as intended.

“It’s an overreach,” she said of the new regulations. “It's the government getting involved in something that they shouldn't have been getting involved in because the process worked already.”

Major U.S. airlines including American, Delta, United and Southwest say the new CDC rules do not change their policies around carrying pets, but all said passengers must fill out the paperwork as required. Delta and American said they are pausing pet shipments in their cargo divisions.

Military families ‘blindsided’

The sudden changes in dog transportation were a “huge blow” to many military and diplomatic families, according to Liz Hensel, the 2024 AFI Marine Corps Spouse of the Year.

“When the CDC came out with their new policy, it completely blindsided not only military families but the diplomatic community as well,” said Hensel, also CEO of Leave No Paws Behind USA.

As a result, Hensel said many families are now scrambling to find pet shippers, a much more expensive alternative to flying with your dog. Hensel said when she brought her two dogs to Israel, where her family is based, it cost about $400 to take them on her flight. She estimated that using a pet shipper to return to the United States could cost as much as $3,000.

Service members can be reimbursed for up to $2,000 worth of expenses for moving a pet internationally and $550 for domestic relocation, a change Hensel spent years lobbying for. But as demand for pet shippers increases after the recent CDC changes, Hensel said she expects the cost to transport dogs internationally to rise well past that.

“It makes me feel a little defeated,” she said. “I fought so hard for the stipend and then for this to come back, and the cost is even to go higher, that $2,000 is not even going to do that much anymore.”

Animal rescue may have to halt operations

For Anna Umansky, co-founder of Friends of Sochi Dogs , the new rules could shut down her dog rescue operations in certain countries. Umansky said the nonprofit does most of its rescue work in Ukraine , which – like nearly all of the other countries it operates in – is considered high risk for rabies.

Umansky said her organization had flights scheduled for dogs and their accompanying volunteers throughout August, including some on Lufthansa, that will have to be moved or canceled as they make a “mad dash” to comply with the new rules. She said the nonprofit considered using a pet shipper or cargo service but “the prices are astronomical” on top of the fees they’ll incur to revaccinate and potentially quarantine the dogs.

“We're trying to figure things out, but I honestly don't know, given these expenses, if we'll continue to be able to rescue animals from there,” she said. 

Umansky said the requirement that dogs vaccinated outside the U.S. be revaccinated upon arrival even after they pass a blood test proving they are immune to the disease is particularly onerous and seemingly medically unnecessary.

When asked about the requirement, spokesperson David Daigle said the CDC can't verify the protection provided by rabies vaccines administered to dogs outside the United States, and studies show it's safe to administer multiple doses of rabies vaccines to dogs even over a short time.

“It's disappointing, it's frustrating, and it's really, really upsetting,” Umansky said.

Contributing: Kathleen Wong and Zach Wichter , USA TODAY

Flying with your dog? Better check the new rules. What to know before you book a flight

As of Thursday, August 1, flying with your dog will get trickier .

In May, t he Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced an update to its dog importation regulation to "protect the health and safety of people and animals by making sure any dog arriving in the United States is healthy and doesn’t present a risk to our communities" and to bring it more in with the World Organization for Animal Health’s standards for the international movement of dogs from countries with a high risk of dog rabies.

"Furthermore," the CDC statement said, "it addresses recent challenges seen with international dog importations, such as fraudulent documentation and dogs housed in unsafe conditions if they didn’t meet requirements for entry to the United States."

In practice, getting ready for the change has resulted in headaches for everyone from military families and diplomats to pet shippers and animal rescue organizations, especially those in disaster areas, due to what critics call confusing instructions and unnecessary complications. Multiple airlines have since stopped allowing dogs to travel to the U.S. with their families.

What are the new CDC regulations about dogs on airplanes?

The  new regulation puts the following changes in effect as of August 1:

• All dogs under 6 months old are banned from entering the U.S.
• Dogs must appear "healthy upon arrival"
• Dogs older than six months must show proof they have not been in  a country identified as high-risk for rabies  or face potential quarantine.
• Dogs must be microchipped.
• Dogs must have a CDC Dog Import Form online submission receipt . 

Additional restrictions and requirements apply depending on where the dog has been and where it was vaccinated. If it's been in one of the more than  100 countries identified as high risk for rabies , your dog may need to pass a blood test or be quarantined for 28 days at one of six CDC-registered animal care facilities . Those facilities are in Atlanta, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Philadephia and Washington, D.C.

According to the CDC, airlines will also be required to create an air waybill for each dog transported to the U.S., a document Elizabeth Schuette, president and CEO of the ARK Import Export Center at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, said was previously only required for dogs being transported as cargo. Airlines can  request a waiver for this rule,  but several, including  Lufthansa ,  Finnair ,  Swiss International Air Lines , and  Austrian Airlines,  initially announced they would no longer allow dogs to fly to America in the cabin or in baggage hold as a result.

Major U.S. airlines including American, Delta, United and Southwest say the new CDC rules do not change their policies around carrying pets, but all said passengers must fill out the paperwork as required. Delta and American said they are pausing pet shipments in their cargo divisions.

How can I tell if I can bring my dog into the US?

The CDC has a personalized question-and-answer tool,  "DogBot,"  that can tell you what rules apply to your dog depending on travel dates, countries and vaccination dates.

On the road with your pet: Are you traveling with dogs or cats this summer? Download these helpful apps

What are Florida's pet laws?

Florida does not restrict  entry of pets like dogs and cats into the state , unless you're bringing them in to sell. You'll need current rabies vaccination documentation. Some Florida counties require pets to wear a rabies tag at all times.

According to  Florida Statutes , dogs and cats transported into Florida to be sold must be tested and vaccinated between 14 and 30 days and receive an official certificate of veterinary inspection before entry into the state and be vaccinated or treated against rabies, roundworms and hookworms. Also canine distemper, leptospirosis, bordetella, parainfluenza, hepatitis and canine parvo (for dogs) and panleukopenia, feline viral rhinotracheitis, and calici virus (for cats).

Does Florida allow exotic pets?

That depends on what types of exotic pets you want.

The  following wildlife may be kept as personal pets  without a permit in Florida:

• Nonvenomous and unprotected reptiles or amphibians
• Gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters
• Honey possums
• Sugar gliders
• Rats, mice,
• Moles, shrews
• Squirrels, chipmunks
• Domestic or European ferrets,
• Prairie dogs
• Chinchillas
• Shell parakeets
• Ringed doves, ruddy doves, diamond doves
• Button quail

Many other species may be kept as personal pets with a permit from the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission which covers keeping them at a specified address, traveling with them and taking them to a vet. The permit does not cover taking an exotic pet out in public, which requires  an exhibition permit .

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‘it’s like a bad dream:’ relatives speak out after 9 family members killed in palm beach county car crash, live stream is below.

Trent Kelly , Reporter

Amanda Batchelor , Digital Executive Producer

Sanela Sabovic , Reporter

PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. – The National Transportation Safety Board has joined the investigation after an SUV crashed into a canal in Palm Beach County on Monday night, killing nine people, including six children, and injuring one other person.

Local 10 News learned Tuesday that all of the victims were family members.

“That’s when I got the call from my father -- that they all were gone,” said Anntianette Edwards, the mother of one of the crash victims.

The NTSB and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the circumstances leading up to the single-vehicle crash that occurred shortly after 7:30 p.m. Monday on Southwest Conners Highway near Belle Glade.

Speaking at a news conference Wednesday, NTSB board member Alvin Brown said the agency will release a report on the crash in 30 days.

“Our mission is to understand not just what happened, but why it happened, to recommend changes to prevent it from happening again,” he said.

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue crews responded to the scene and found the Ford Explorer upside down in the water, with only its wheels visible.

Investigators say the driver of the SUV failed to turn while approaching a curve, causing the SUV to slam into a guardrail before flipping over into the nearby canal.

Authorities confirmed that 10 people were inside the vehicle, four of whom were pronounced dead at the scene.

NTSB UPDATE:

The six others were hospitalized, two of whom were airlifted to a trauma center with critical injuries.

PBSO confirmed that five of the victims died at the hospital, bringing the death count to nine and leaving only one survivor -- 26-year-old Jorden Hall, who is now listed in serious condition at a West Palm Beach hospital.

The victims killed in the crash were identified as 56-year-old Pamela Wiggins, 30-year-old Leiana Hall, 21-year-old Anyia Tucker, 14-year old Michael Anthony Hall, 8-year-old Imani Hall, 5-year-olds Kamdien Edwards and Yasire Smith, 3-year-old Zaire Mack and 23-month-old Naleia Tucker.

Roadside crews returned to the crash site Wednesday morning, repairing the section of guardrail that was damaged in the crash.

“It’s like a bad dream -- just a dream,” Anntianette Edwards, who is the mother of Kamdien, said.

Relatives of the victims spoke to reporters in Connecticut Tuesday.

“He was getting ready to start kindergarten. He was cheerful, funny, not scared of nothing, a daredevil. He was just a happy baby,” Edwards said.

The victims were traveling from Connecticut, Virginia and Jamaica to celebrate a family member’s birthday.

Hall’s family told reporters that he was trying to save his relatives after their SUV came to a rest in the water.

“He managed to get all of the babies out of the car, but there was too much water in their lungs,” Edwards said.

“This is a serious devastation to our family,” said Antoine Wright, who is a cousin of the victims.

Family members have created a GoFundMe page to help with funeral expenses, and it can be found by clicking here .

Officials are asking anyone with information about the crash to contact them at [email protected] .

Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.

About the Authors

Trent kelly.

Trent Kelly is an award-winning multimedia journalist who joined the Local 10 News team in June 2018. Trent is no stranger to Florida. Born in Tampa, he attended the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he graduated with honors from the UF College of Journalism and Communications.

Amanda Batchelor

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.

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9 dead, 1 injured after suv crashes into canal in palm beach county.

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Crime and Public Safety | 10 newborn puppies tossed out of car in Mission…

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Crime and Public Safety

Subscriber only, crime and public safety | 10 newborn puppies tossed out of car in mission viejo are reunited with their mother.

The puppies – who’ve since been named after dessert flavors by shelter personnel – were tossed around 2:30 a.m. along a road leading to the center at 28095 Hillcreston on July 24, the shelter said in a post on Facebook. The road is set against a wilderness area, leaving the puppies vulnerable to coyotes who wander the area.

A few hours later after they were ditched, Chip, Caramel, Mint, Maple, Chocolate, Cookie Dough, Butterscotch, Cookies n Cream, Ripple and Coffee were discovered in a vinyl puppy pool by a volunteer dog walker, when the canine alerted him to the puppies’ location by dragging him over to a bush.

The puppies were immediately brought into the shelter, where they were nursed back to health and sent into foster care, the shelter said in their  Aug. 7 post.

Surveillance video from the shelter showed a man tossing the puppies before driving off. He was later identified, and the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is in the process of filing animal cruelty charges against him with the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, officials said.

It wasn’t clear why he tossed away the puppies.

Their mother, Holly, was located and reunited with her 10 newborns, believed to be Australian Shepherd and Labrador mixes, said Kyle Werner, Lt. of field services with the shelter. He praised the center’s nonprofit DAWG, which paid for the dogs’ vet visits and will be covering their spay and neuter fees.

All the pups are in good health and will be available for adoption in the future.

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Flying a dog into the US just got trickier. What Phoenix travelers should know

New rules for flying internationally with dogs are now in effect.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's new rules on dogs entering the United States via airplane took effect on Thursday, Aug. 1. These rules affect people who are traveling internationally with dogs or importing dogs from another country. They do not affect people flying domestic with dogs.

The CDC rules are designed to prevent the spread of rabies. Dogs carry the viral disease in many countries, but it was eradicated from dogs in the U.S. in 2007. Today, most rabies cases in the U.S. involve wildlife like bats, raccoons and skunks.

Airlines for America, a trade group representing America's passenger air carriers, told The Arizona Republic that it has concerns about consequences the rule might have on travelers − for instance, international travelers who require assistance from a service dog.

Here's what travelers should know about the new CDC rules.

New CDC rules for dogs entering US

Starting Thursday, Aug. 1, the CDC requires that dogs entering the U.S. must be at least 6 months old, have a microchip and "appear healthy upon arrival."

Dog owners must complete paperwork depending on where the dog is traveling from. If arriving from a rabies-free or low-risk country, the owner must complete the CDC Dog Import Form .

What to do if arriving from a country with a high risk for dog rabies depends on whether the dog is vaccinated, and if the dog was vaccinated in the U.S. or another country . Dogs that were vaccinated in another country may be subject to a 28-day quarantine in a CDC-registered animal care facility or a blood test from a CDC-approved laboratory.

Dogs vaccinated in the U.S. who traveled to a high-risk country can enter the United States at any airport. Dogs vaccinated internationally can only enter airports with CDC-registered animal care facilities . Six airports have these facilities: Los Angeles; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Miami; Washington Dulles International Airport in Dulles, Virginia; and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City.

Unvaccinated dogs will not be allowed to enter the U.S. if they've been in a country with a high rabies risk.

What countries have dogs with rabies?

The CDC has a list of countries considered high-risk for importing dog rabies in the U.S. Many of these countries, including China, Venezuela, Russia, Afghanistan, Haiti and Ukraine, are also among the destinations the U.S. State Department considers the least safe to travel to .

The U.S. has been free of dog rabies since 2007, according to the CDC. Its database on 2024 rabies status information showed Mexico is the only country with nonstop flights from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport that is not free of dog rabies. However, Mexico is not considered high risk for dog rabies.

Can you bring a dog on American Airlines?

Dogs can travel on American Airlines as a carry-on or in cargo, depending on their breed and size. Carry-on pet fees are $150 per kennel; cargo pet fees vary. There's no charge for service animals.

In a statement, American Airlines said it will not accept dogs as carry-on pets if they originate from or have visited a country on the CDC's list of high-risk countries for rabies up to six months before the date of travel, except for service dogs that meet CDC requirements.

American Airlines Cargo is also pausing until further notice new bookings for dogs and cats that visited a country deemed high-risk for rabies within six months before the flight.

Details: www.aa.com .

Can you bring a dog on Southwest Airlines?

Yes, if traveling within the U.S. Small dogs that are at least eight weeks old are allowed to travel on Southwest Airlines, and they must be secured in a pet carrier stowed under the seat.

Pet fares are $125 each way per pet carrier, and the airline allows one pet carrier per ticketed customer.

Pets are not allowed on international itineraries aboard Southwest, though service dogs are allowed.

A Southwest spokesperson said the airline's customer service agents will let passengers with service dogs know of new CDC requirements for service animals re-entering the U.S.

Details: support.southwest.com .

Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport tips for traveling with dogs

While Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport staff did not comment on the new CDC regulations, it offered tips for passengers traveling with pets:

• Use elevators or walk the concourses. Airport staff advises against dogs on moving walkways or escalators, except for trained service animals. The grates could pose a safety risk if a dog's paws, nails or tail gets caught.
• Keep dogs leashed. Keep the leash short to protect dogs from carts, luggage and distracted passengers.
• Keep a distance from other dogs. Not all dogs want to socialize, and some are working dogs that can't socialize. People traveling with pets should hello to other dogs from a distance to avoid potential conflicts.
• Use the animal relief areas. The Phoenix airport has nine animal relief areas for exercise, drinking water and going to the bathroom. The relief areas are pre-security in Terminals 3 and 4; in two locations post-security in Terminal 3; in three locations post-security in Terminal 4; near the East Economy parking garage; and at the northwest corner of the 44th Street PHX Sky Train Station.

Sky Harbor also has a guide to traveling with pets on its website that includes links to each airline's pet policy.

Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:  @salerno_phx .

Support local journalism.   Subscribe to  azcentral.com  today.

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Russia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory june 27, 2024, russia - level 4: do not travel.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Do not travel to Russia due to the consequences of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces. U.S. citizens may face harassment or detention by Russian security officials, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, limited flights into and out of Russia, and the possibility of terrorism. The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in Russia. The Department has determined that there is a continued risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by Russian authorities. U.S. citizens residing or traveling in Russia should leave immediately.

The U.S. government has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in Russia, especially outside of Moscow. The U.S. Embassy is operating with reduced staffing, and the Russian government has restricted travel for embassy personnel. Furthermore, all U.S. consulates in Russia have suspended operations, including consular services.

There have been reports of drone attacks and explosions near the border with Ukraine as well as in Moscow, Kazan, and St. Petersburg. In an emergency, you should follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter.

Russia may refuse to recognize your U.S. citizenship if you are a dual U.S.-Russian citizen or have a claim to Russian citizenship. Russia has denied consular officers visits to detained dual U.S.-Russian citizens. The Russian government has forced citizens with dual nationality to join the Russian military and prevented them from leaving the country. In 2022, the Russian government mobilized citizens for its invasion of Ukraine. Military conscription continues.

In Russia, the rights to peaceful assembly and free speech are not always protected. U.S. citizens should avoid protests and taking photos of security staff at these events. Russian authorities have arrested U.S. citizens who joined protests. Moreover, there are many reports of Russians being detained for social media posts.

U.S. citizens should know that U.S. credit and debit cards no longer work in Russia. Due to sanctions, sending electronic money transfers from the U.S. to Russia is nearly impossible.

Commercial flight options are minimal and are often unavailable on short notice. If you wish to depart Russia, you should make independent arrangements. The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in leaving the country, and transportation options may suddenly become even more restricted.

Click  here  for Information for U.S. Citizens Seeking to Depart Russia.

U.S. Embassy staff generally are not allowed to fly on Russian airlines due to safety concerns. Recently, the FAA downgraded Russia's air safety rating from Category 1 to Category 2. Additionally, the FAA banned U.S. flights in some Russian areas, including the Moscow Flight Information Region (FIR), the Samara FIR (UWWW), and the Rostov-na-Donu (URRV) FIR within 160NM of the boundaries of the Dnipro (UKDV) Flight Information Regions. Check the FAA's Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices for more information.

Country Summary: 

Russian officials have interrogated and threatened U.S. citizens without cause. This includes former and current U.S. government and military personnel and private U.S. citizens engaged in business. U.S. citizens may become victims of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion.

Russian authorities may not notify the U.S. Embassy about the detention of a U.S. citizen and may delay U.S. consular assistance. Russian security services also target foreign and international organizations they consider “undesirable.”

Russian security services have arrested U.S. citizens on false charges, denied them fair treatment, and convicted them without credible evidence. Furthermore, Russian authorities have opened questionable investigations against U.S. citizens engaged in religious activity. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to Russia.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has destabilized security in southwestern Russia. In October 2022, the Russian government declared martial law in the following border areas with Ukraine: Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Rostov, and Krasnodar. Under martial law, authorities can set curfews, seize property, and restrict movement. The Russian government may detain foreigners, forcibly relocate residents, and limit public gatherings. U.S. citizens should avoid all travel to these areas.

Russian authorities have questioned, detained, and arrested people for “acting against Russia's interests.” Local authorities have targeted people for posting on social media or supporting "anti-Russian" groups and punished individuals for criticizing the government or military. The Russian government's current "LGBT propaganda" law bans discussion of LGBTQI+ related topics. In November 2023, the Supreme Court labeled the so-called "international LGBT movement" as extremist. This decision effectively made it a crime to support the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons in Russia.

Terrorists continue to plan attacks in Russia. The March 2024 Crocus City Hall incident proved they can strike suddenly. Terrorists may target tourist areas, transport hubs, and markets. They may also target government buildings, hotels, clubs, restaurants, and places of worship. Parks, events, schools, and airports are also potential targets.  U.S. government employees under Embassy (Chief of Mission) security responsibility are not permitted to travel to the North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to those areas.

The international community does not recognize Russia’s annexation of Crimea and does not acknowledge Russia’s purported annexation of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya. Russia staged its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in part, from occupied Crimea and there is a heavy Russian military presence in these areas. There is intense fighting across these regions and Russian authorities there have abused both foreigners and locals. Authorities have specifically targeted individuals who are seen as challenging Russia’s authority.

The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv administers consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya. However, the conflict limits the Embassy's ability to help U.S. citizens in these areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Russia.

If you decide to travel to Russia:

• Read the information on what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in an emergency overseas .
• Consider the risks involved in having dual U.S.- Russian nationality.
• Have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government help. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Follow news for any important events and update your plans based on the new information.
• Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This will allow you to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Russia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

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We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Russia due to the security situation and the impacts of the military conflict with Ukraine.

Russia (PDF 2.04 MB)

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All emergency services, fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Do not travel to Russia. 

Do not travel to Russia due to the dangerous security situation and the impacts of the military conflict with Ukraine. 

Do not travel to North Caucasus.

Do not travel to North Caucasus due to the high threat of terrorism and political unrest.

See Safety .

• Foreigners, including Australians, are at ongoing risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. Russian authorities make strong, negative comments in relation to Western countries, including Australia. Local authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia in reaction to perceived support for Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. Non-participating bystanders can draw scrutiny from security forces and have been detained.  Remain vigilant, avoid protests or demonstrations, and avoid commenting publicly on political developments.
• There's a high ongoing threat of terrorism. Terrorist groups, including al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned groups, continue to call for attacks in Russia. Attacks can be indiscriminate and may occur on or around seasonal, festive, or religious events in public places, including popular tourist sites. Attacks may occur with little or no warning. Always be alert to possible threats and have a clear exit plan. On 22 March, there was a terrorist attack at Crocus City Concert Hall, resulting in significant loss of life. Security measures or restrictions may continue to be in place across the country. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• Security incidents, such as drone attacks and explosions, often occur in southern and western areas of Russia, including regions bordering Ukraine, Moscow, and St Petersburg. This can cause significant flight delays and travel disruption. You shouldn't attempt to travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.
• The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. If you're in Russia, leave immediately using the commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so. Departure routes from Russia may become disrupted at short notice, so have an alternate exit plan.
• If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Russia is limited. The Australian Government won't be able to evacuate you from Russia.
• There are limited transportation options, restrictions on financial transactions and possible shortages of essential products and services.
• The Russian Government has introduced a 'medium response level' in several regions of Russia, including Krasnodar, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov and a 'heightened preparedness level' in the remainder of the Central and Southern Federal districts. A basic readiness level covers the rest of Russia. There may be an increase in security personnel and installations. Security measures or restrictions may be introduced with little to no notice. Monitor the media for developments.
• Continue to follow the advice on Smartraveller. If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• The laws regarding the import and use of medicines are strict. For each medication containing restricted substances, you need a doctor's letter and a notarised translation confirming your need. Contact the  Embassy of Russia  for details.
• Rabies and tick-borne encephalitis are on the rise. Ticks are common from April to October. Take care when travelling through forests.
• Infectious diseases such as typhoid, hepatitis, diphtheria, measles, and tuberculosis are at risk. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water.
• Public medical facilities in Russian cities are below Australian standards and basic in rural areas.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Foreigners, including Australians, are at ongoing risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. Russian authorities may arbitrarily enforce local laws. You may be interrogated without cause by Russian officials and may become a victim of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion
• Russia may subject males it regards as Russian to mobilisation, regardless of any other citizenship held. Laws introducing heavy penalties for 'crimes against military service' have been passed. The Australian Government won't be able to intervene if you're mobilised.
• Conscription occurs regularly in Russia. The Government may subject males it regards as Russian to mandatory conscription, regardless of any other citizenship held. The maximum age of conscription is 30 years old. Draft notices can be serviced to the conscripts online, preventing conscripts from leaving the country once the notice is registered and sent.
• Russia has passed laws that severely restrict free speech, imposing severe restrictions on the publishing and distribution of information related to the Russian armed forces and any military operations. Foreign journalists and other media workers in Russia may face considerable risks, including arrest and imprisonment. Don't share or publish information about current events in Ukraine and Russia.
• Don't use or carry any illegal drugs. Penalties are severe. Carry your passport, visa, and migration card at all times. Authorities won't accept copies.
• Don't take photos of military places or sensitive areas, such as passport control. Using commercial film, television, camera equipment, or drones in public is also illegal without permission.
• Russia doesn't recognise dual nationals. We can only provide limited consular assistance to dual nationals who are arrested or detained. To leave, you'll need a valid Russian passport.
• Same-sex relationships are technically legal but are not widely accepted. Violence against members of the LGBTI community occurs. Russia bans "LGBTQIA+ propaganda", criminalising any act regarded as an attempt to promote what Russia calls "non-traditional sexual relations". The promotion of LGBTQIA+ issues may be considered illegal by local authorities, and activists may face consequences under Russian law. Gender changes without medical requirements are banned. The law also annuls marriages in which one person "changed gender" and prevents transgender couples from adopting children.

Law enforcement agencies in Russia cooperate closely with agencies in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• If you're in Russia, leave immediately using the commercial options available or private means if it's safe. The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Have an alternate exit plan.
• If you plan to depart Russia, confirm with your transport operator that services are still operating. Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe are often disrupted due to measures taken in response to military action in Ukraine. Several Russian airports are now closed to the public, disrupting internal flights to and from Moscow and other cities.  Finland  has closed its land and maritime borders with Russia indefinitely.
• Confirm the entry requirements before arrival if you're travelling through an overland border crossing into  Estonia  or  Latvia . Latvia introduced an entry ban on vehicles registered in Russia in September 2023. There's a ban on vehicles crossing into/from Estonia at the Ivangorod- Narva crossing. Train services are also suspended. Entry and exit on foot is allowed. Additional restrictions or entry requirements could be imposed or changed suddenly. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. Australia and other countries have placed sanctions on Russia. Russia's response to these sanctions may disrupt travel and affect travellers.
• Russian airlines and railways may be affected by shortages of parts and essential technical components for their fleets, which could affect maintenance and safety standards. Research your railway and aviation provider before choosing their services. The International Civil Aviation Organisation has issued a Significant Safety Concern (or 'red flag') notice regarding Russian airlines' capacity to oversee safety. 
• If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Russia, expect thorough security checks at the border, including questioning and inspections of electronic devices. Entry requirements can change at short notice. Contact your airline or the nearest embassy or consulate of Russia to confirm entry requirements.
• Bank cards issued outside of Russia don't work in Russia. You won't be able to access funds from these cards once you enter Russia. You may not be able to exchange Australian dollars or old, worn, or damaged US dollar and euro banknotes into Russian rubles in Russia. Ensure you have enough money to cover your stay.
• Dual nationals can't leave Russia without a valid Russian passport. If your passport expires while you're in Russia or if you enter Russia using a repatriation certificate, you'll need to get a new one before you leave. This can take up to 3 months. The Australian Government is unable to intervene or fast-track this process.  

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy  in Moscow. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Russia is limited due to the evolving security situation. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Russia.
• The Australian Consulate in St Petersburg can provide limited help.
• If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Russia. Terrorist groups, including al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned groups, continue to call for attacks in Russia. Attacks can be indiscriminate and may occur on or around seasonal, festive, or religious events in public places, including popular tourist sites. Attacks could occur with little or no warning. Always be alert to possible threats and have a clear exit plan. Russia has seen several terrorist attacks, which have caused large casualty numbers. Russia's aviation has also been targeted. 

On 22 March, there was a terrorist attack at Crocus City Concert Hall near Moscow, resulting in 145 deaths and more than 500 people injured. 

Russian authorities continue to announce arrests and the disruption of planned attacks.

Security measures or restrictions may continue to be in place across the country. Follow the advice from local authorities.

Terrorists have attacked other European cities. Targets have included:

• places of worship 
• government buildings
• shopping areas
• tourist sites  
• restaurants
• nightclubs 
• entertainment venues
• transportation hubs 
• major events which attract large crowds

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• be extra cautious around possible terrorist targets
• always have a clear exit plan
• report anything suspicious to the police
• monitor the media for any new threats
• take official warnings seriously and follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:   

North Caucasus

There's a high threat of terrorism in parts of the North Caucasus, including:

• North Ossetia
• the south-eastern part of Stavropol bordering Chechnya
• Karbardino-Balkaria
• Karachay-Cherkessia

Terrorist attacks continue to occur in Chechnya. Several people have been killed and injured.

Our ability to provide consular assistance to Australians in those parts of the North Caucasus is limited.

If, despite our advice, you travel to these parts of the North Caucasus:

• monitor local conditions via media and travel operators
• arrange personal security measures

Georgia-Russia border

The Georgia-Russia border area is volatile because of tensions in Georgia.

If, despite our advice, you travel in the border region, read our  Georgia travel advice .

Security situation

Security incidents, such as drone attacks and explosions, often occur in southern and western areas of Russia, including regions bordering Ukraine, Moscow, and St Petersburg. This can cause significant flight delays and flight cancellations. You shouldn't attempt to travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.

The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. If you're in Russia, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so. Departure routes from Russia may become disrupted at short notice. If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family.

The Russian Government has introduced a 'medium response level' in several regions of Russia, including Krasnodar, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov and a 'heightened preparedness level' in the remainder of the Central and Southern Federal districts. A basic readiness level has been introduced in the rest of Russia. There may be an increase in security personnel and installations. Security measures or restrictions may be introduced with little to no notice. Monitor the media for developments.

Ukraine border areas and Crimea

The Russia-Ukraine border is volatile due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Security incidents regularly occur in Belgorod, Bryansk, Kursk, and other regions of Russia bordering Ukraine, including explosions and large fires. The security situation in the region could deteriorate at short notice. You shouldn't travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.

We currently advise you do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and military conflict. Read the  Ukraine travel advice   for more information.

The Australian Government doesn't recognise Russia's claimed annexation of the Ukrainian region of Crimea or its other territorial claims in occupied Ukraine.

Leaving Russia

Where it's safe to do so, you should leave Russia immediately. Use your judgment to decide the best time and safest means of exit. 

Transport routes may be disrupted. Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication, and fuel. Make sure you have payment options that will work during your journey and at your destination. 

Read your destination's travel advice to ensure you meet the entry requirements. These may differ when entering by road, rail, or air. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe have been impacted by measures taken in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Check with your airline or travel agent for current flight availability. Any travel options you pursue are at your own risk. See ' Travel '.

For more information on entry requirements for countries bordering Russia, read the travel advice:

• Georgia   
• Latvia   

If you decide to stay in Russia:

• follow the instructions of authorities
• ensure your travel documents are up-to-date, and keep your passport and other travel documentation safe
• contact your family and friends in Australia so they're aware of your location and situation
• keep up to date with developments on the security situation, monitor reputable media, and regularly check our travel advice and  social media
• review your personal security plans and make contingency plans to leave as soon as you judge it safe to do so
• always be alert and aware of your surroundings
• avoid large gatherings and areas with groups of fighters and military equipment.

Civil unrest and political tension

Foreigners, including Australians, are at ongoing risk of arbitrary detention or arrest.

Russian authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia due to perceived support for Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. Russian authorities may arbitrarily enforce local laws. You may be interrogated without cause by Russian officials and may become a victim of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion.

Russia's parliament has passed laws that severely restrict free speech. Foreign journalists and other media workers in Russia may face considerable risks, including arrest and imprisonment.

While the effects of this law are still unclear, you may be detained or fined for:

• sharing or publishing information that local authorities deem false
• sharing or publishing information that may be detrimental to the armed forces
• calling for, sharing, or publishing speech in support of sanctions against Russia

You should not:

• share or publish information related to the current events in Ukraine and Russia
• participate in demonstrations and large gatherings

Avoid commenting publicly on political developments.

Anti-war and anti-mobilisation protests have taken place in cities across Russia over the invasion of Ukraine. Many protesters have been arrested.

Unsanctioned protests are illegal, and you can be arrested if you participate. Remain vigilant and avoid rallies, protests, demonstrations, and other large public gatherings, as they can turn violent, and you may be arrested.

Theft and assault

Petty crimes, pickpocketing and muggings are common. Groups of children sometimes commit crimes, too.

Hot spots for crime include:  

• the Izmailovsky Market
• other tourist attractions
• the Moscow and St Petersburg metros

Thieves often steal passports. They target travellers in  robberies  and  assaults , particularly in large cities.

To protect yourself from theft and assault:

• keep your personal belongings close, particularly in tourist areas
• be aware of your security in public places, particularly at night
• monitor local media on crime
• racially or religiously motivated assaults may occur throughout Russia.

Drink spiking

Criminals may drug and rob travellers at nightclubs and bars. This sometimes happens after accepting offers of food, drink, or transportation from strangers.

To protect yourself from spiking-related crime:

• never accept food or drinks from strangers
• don't leave drinks unattended
• leave your drink if you're not sure it's safe
• stick with people you trust in bars, nightclubs, and taxis
• don't accept offers of transport from strangers

More information:

• Partying safely

Using taxis

People have reported extortion and robbery while taking unauthorised taxis.

To protect yourself from robbery while travelling in taxis:

• only use official taxi apps or companies
• don't flag down taxis on the street
• don't share taxis with strangers
• always negotiate and confirm the fare before you get in a taxi

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud is common.

To protect yourself from fraud:

• only exchange currency at banks
• keep your credit card in sight during transactions
• only use ATMs inside banks and during business hours
• always hide your PIN

Other scams

Criminals may try to cheat you by changing money in the street or a bank queue.

Some Australians have been victims of fraud by bogus internet friendship, dating and marriage schemes operating from Russia.

These are large-scale, well-organised  scams .

Criminals arrange to meet people through internet dating schemes or chat rooms. After getting to know you, the criminal will ask you to send money so they can travel to Australia. However, the relationship ends after the money has been received, and the funds can't be recovered.

Be wary of people you meet through internet dating schemes or chat rooms.

People have also reported harassment, mistreatment and extortion by police and other local officials.

If you suspect you're being extorted by a police officer or other local official, offer to walk with them to the nearest police station. Once there, you can check their identity and their demands.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Kidnapping  is common in parts of the Northern Caucasus.

It can be for:

• political purposes
• retribution

Foreigners have been targeted in the past.

If, despite the risks, you travel to an area where there is a particular threat of kidnapping:

• get professional security advice

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Climate and natural disasters

Severe weather  during winter can disrupt travel in Russia.

To protect yourself from accidents caused by severe weather:

• take care when walking in snowy, icy or windy conditions
• take care when driving
• use appropriate driving equipment, such as winter tyres or chains
• monitor the media and other sources for updates

If you're delayed, contact local authorities about a visa extension if required.

Spring flooding caused by melting ice is common in some parts of Russia.

In April, severe flooding affected multiple settlements in over 30 regions across Russia, including the Urals and Western Siberia. Thousands of people have been evacuated. 

If you are in Russia, monitor the media and follow the advice from local authorities.

Snow and ice

Wind, snow, and ice-related accidents injure and kill people annually. These include:

• traffic accidents
• collapsed roofs and snow falling from roofs 
• falling debris 
• prolonged exposure to extreme cold

Slipping on ice can result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, back injuries, or paralysis.

During summer, forest and peat  fires  can occur in Russia, including in the Moscow region.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

The North Caucasus and the far eastern region of Russia can experience  earthquakes .

Tsunamis  are common in all oceanic regions of the world.

To protect yourself from natural disasters, take official warnings seriously.

If a  natural disaster  occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.

Get updates on major disasters from the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Travel insurance

Most Australian travel insurance policies won't cover you for travel to Russia. Do not travel to Russia. See ' Safety '

You may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care if you're not insured.

Physical and mental health

Do not travel to Russia. If, despite our advice, you travel to Russia, consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice  (World Health Organization)
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor. 

Russia has temporarily restricted exporting certain categories of goods, including foreign-made medical products. 

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Russia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Russia has strict laws about the import and use of medications, including medications that are available over the counter in Australia, such as cold and flu tablets.

When you arrive in Russia, you must present a doctor's letter to authorities confirming your need for each medication. Especially if your medications contain the following:

• barbiturate
• sibutramine
• anabolic steroids
• androgens and other sex hormones
• analgesic, such as tramadol
• psychostimulants
• other restricted substances

The letter must:

• contain a description of the medication, including the chemical composition
• describe the required dosage
• explain the underlying medical condition
• confirm the medicine is for personal use only
• be signed by your treating doctor

You must also have a notarised translation of the letter into Russian.

Before you leave Australia, contact the Embassy of Russia for the latest rules for bringing medicines into Russia.

• Russian Government website

Health risks

Tick-borne diseases.

Tick-borne encephalitis  (World Health Organization) and other tick-borne diseases are a risk, especially if you travel through forested areas.

Ticks are common in rural areas from spring to autumn: April to October.

People have reported increased incidents of tick-borne encephalitis.

Measles cases can routinely occur in Russia, with the country currently experiencing increased measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date before you travel.

• Measles immunisation service  (Department of Health and Aged Care)

HIV/AIDS  is a risk.

Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

There have been reports of  rabies  across Russia.

Rabies is deadly. Humans can get rabies from mammals, such as:

• dogs  
• other animals

If you're bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey, or other animal, get treatment as soon as possible.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic, and other  infectious diseases  are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:  

• typhoid  
• measles  
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products

Get urgent medical attention if you have a fever or diarrhoea or suspect food poisoning.

Medical facilities

Public medical facilities in Russian cities are below Australian standards.

Standards are extremely basic in rural areas.

There are a few international-standard private facilities in major cities – these clinics can be very expensive to access.

Before you're treated, private facilities need either:

• up-front payment
• evidence of adequate insurance
• a written guarantee of payment

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to get proper care. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Foreigners, including Australians, are at ongoing risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

The Russian security services have arrested US citizens on spurious charges, singled out US citizens in Russia for detention and/or harassment, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and have convicted them in secret trials and/or without presenting credible evidence. The US Government warns that Russian officials may unreasonably delay consular assistance to detained US citizens.

Russian authorities have introduced criminal liability for publishing and distributing anything they consider 'deliberately misleading' about the Russian armed forces and any military operations. These laws have been interpreted and applied very broadly to many forms of dissent.

Gender changes are banned, including gender transition surgery, hormone therapy and changing gender on official documents without medical requirements. The law also annuls marriages in which one person "changed gender" and prevents transgender couples from adopting children.

There are laws banning "LGBTQIA+ propaganda". These criminalise any act regarded as an attempt to promote what Russia calls "non-traditional sexual relations". Sharing information or public display of any material promoting "non-traditional relationships" is now a serious criminal offence. The 'international LGBTQIA+ movement' has been classified as an 'extremist organisation' under Russian law, criminalising the display of symbols such as the rainbow flag (including on social media).

In November 2022, Russia announced that the partial mobilisation of military reservists for the conflict in Ukraine was complete. However, a decree formalising the completion hasn't been issued. The Russian Government may subject males it regards as Russian to mobilisation, regardless of any other citizenship held. Laws introducing heavy penalties for 'crimes against military service' have been passed. The Australian Government will not be able to intervene if you're mobilised.

Russian authorities imposed restrictions on real estate and foreign currency transactions for foreign residents. These restrictions can be revised at short notice. Seek advice from local authorities.

Possessing, selling, consuming, or carrying any illegal drugs is illegal.

Penalties are severe and include long prison terms.

Russia has strict rules around medication carried into the country for personal use, including some medications that you can get over the counter in Australia.

If you don't declare restricted medications, authorities could detain you. See  Health .

• Carrying or using drugs

Routine police checks are common in public places.

Carry your passport, visa, and migration card with you at all times. Authorities won't accept copies.

If you can't provide travel documentation on request, authorities can detain and fine you.

In Russia, it's illegal to:

• take photos of military places, strategic sites, and other sensitive areas, such as passport control and guarded railway sites
• use commercial film, television, or camera equipment in public areas without permission, but hand-held home video cameras are allowed
• use drones without permission from the Russian aviation authority.

Penalties for breaching the law include fines, jail, and deportation.

Russia regulates religious activity. Authorities restrict activities such as preaching and distributing religious materials.

If you plan to engage in religious activity, ensure you're not breaking local laws.

Contact the Embassy or Consulate of Russia for more information.

Cybersecurity laws

Russia has blocked or restricted some social media platforms and websites, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X (formerly known as Twitter).

Russia has banned certain Virtual Private Networks (VPN). 

• Cyber security when travelling overseas
• Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media (Roskomnadzor)

Official documents

Some Australian documents, such as birth or marriage certificates, need to be  legalised  before Russian authorities will accept them.

If you have an Australian document that you need to use while in Russia, contact the Embassy or Consulate of Russia for information.

Apostilles  and some legal certificates can be issued by:

• DFAT  in Australia
• Australian embassies and high commissions  overseas

Surrogacy laws

Russia bans surrogacy for all foreigners except those married to Russian citizens. Recent court cases have resulted in long custodial sentences for some providers of surrogacy services. All children born through surrogacy in Russia are granted Russian citizenship, regardless of their parent's citizenship.

Get independent legal advice before making surrogacy arrangements in Russia or with residents of Russia.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt a child

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

If you're a dual national, this severely limits the  consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained. Foreigners, including Australians, are at ongoing risk of arbitrary detention or arrest.

Russia doesn't recognise dual nationality.

In November 2022, Russia announced that the partial mobilisation of military reservists for the conflict in Ukraine was complete. However, a decree formalising the completion hasn't been issued. Russia may subject males it regards as Russian to mobilisation, regardless of any other citizenship held. Laws introducing heavy penalties for 'crimes against military service' have been passed. The Australian Government won't be able to intervene if you are subjected to mobilisation.

Conscription occurs regularly, and Russia may subject males it regards as Russian to mandatory conscription, regardless of any other citizenship held. Conscription in Russia occurs semi-annually, and conscripts typically serve one year. The maximum conscription age is 30 years old. The draft notice is to be serviced to the conscripts online and prevents conscripts from leaving the country once the notice is registered and sent.

Russian authorities won't recognise your Australian nationality if you're a dual national. They will treat you like any other national of Russia.

If you're a dual national:

• you must enter and leave Russia on a Russian passport
• you can enter Russia using a repatriation certificate (svidetelstvo na vozvrashcheniye) if you don't have a Russian passport, but you must still leave Russia on a Russian passport
• you must declare any other nationalities or foreign residency permits to the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs
• you could be conscripted into the Russian military if you're a male between the ages of 18 and 30

Contact the  Embassy or Consulate of Russia well before any planned travel to Russia.

Dual nationals can't leave Russia without a valid Russian passport.

You'll need to get a new Russian passport before you leave if:

• your Russian passport expires while you're in Russia
• you enter Russia using a repatriation certificate

Getting a new Russian passport for non-residents is complex and can take up to 3 months. The Australian Government is unable to intervene or fast-track this process.

Children born outside Russia and added to their parents' Russian passports need their own passport to leave Russia.

If you're travelling alone with a child, Russian border authorities may require the following:

• documentary evidence of your relationship to the child
• written permission for the child to travel from the non-travelling parent
• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Australia and other countries have placed sanctions on Russia. Russia's response to these sanctions may disrupt travel and affect travellers.

You need a visa to enter Russia unless you're travelling on certain commercial cruise ships.

You can't get a visa on arrival.

If you arrive in Russia without a valid visa, authorities will fine, detain and deport you at your own expense. They may bar you from re-entering.

Make sure you apply for the correct visa type, such as 'tourist' and 'visitor' visas.

If your visa type doesn't match the purpose of your visit, authorities may:

• not let you enter 

You may need to provide biometric fingerprints for the visa application process.

After you get your Russian visa, check your passport details are correct, including the following:

• passport number
• date of birth
• intention of stay
• validity dates

If there are errors, return your passport to the  Russian Embassy or Consulate  for correction.

It's impossible to amend visa details once you're in Russia.

Border measures

If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Russia, expect thorough security checks at the border, including questioning and inspections of electronic devices.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Australians sanctioned by Russia

The Russian Foreign Ministry issued statements on its website advising that, in response to Australian sanctions, the Russian Government had added several Australians to a 'stop list', denying them entry into Russia on an indefinite basis.  

These statements can be viewed here (copy and paste the URL into a new browser if you can't open the link):

• 26 June 2024 statement - https://www.mid.ru/ru/foreign_policy/news/1959710/  
• 17 April 2024 statement -  https://mid.ru/ru/foreign_policy/news/1944697/  (in Russian)
• 21 June 2023 statement  -   https://mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1890258/
• 16 September 2022 statement  -  https://mid.ru/ru/foreign_policy/news/1830085/   (in Russian)
• 21 July 2022 statement  -  https://www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1823204/
• 16 June 2022 statement   -  https://www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1818118/
• 7 April 2022 statement   -  https://www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1808465/

DFAT can't provide advice on the implications of another country's sanctions. If you're listed, you should obtain legal advice if you have concerns about the potential impacts of the Russian sanctions. Do not travel to Russia if you're on Russia's 'stop list'. 

Other formalities

Migration card.

Foreign visitors generally receive a migration card on arrival in Russia.

If you receive a paper migration card, keep the stamped exit portion of the card with your passport.

The migration card covers both Russia and Belarus. When leaving either country, you must show the stamped card to passport control.

If you lose your migration card:

• your departure could be delayed
• you could be stopped from staying at a hotel in Russia

You can get a replacement from the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, but this process is complex and could delay your departure.

Biometric fingerprinting

Foreign citizens entering Russia for work or intending to stay over 90 calendar days may be subject to biometric fingerprinting and regular medical check-ups. The biometric fingerprinting procedure will need to be done only once. Medical check-ups must be re-taken upon the certificate's expiry (valid for 1 year).

Travel with children

If you're  travelling with a child , you may need to show evidence of parental, custodial or permission rights. This is particularly the case for dual nationals. See  Local laws

• Advice for people travelling with children

Electronics

The government strictly controls the import of electrical and some high-technology equipment.

The rules are complex.

You may import terminal global positioning systems (GPS) devices if you declare them on arrival. However, you'll need a special permit to import a GPS device connected to a computer or an antenna.

Authorities can detain you if you don't have a permit.

To import a satellite phone, you must show proof of advanced approval. Request approval from the  Federal Service for the Supervision of Communications .

Russian border officials can demand to inspect any electronic device, including installed software when you enter or leave the country.

Travel between Russia and Belarus

Do not travel to Russia or Belarus due to the security environment and impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. If you're in Russia or Belarus, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so.

If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Belarus from Russia, note that the government doesn't allow foreigners to cross the land border between Russia and Belarus . You must do so by air.

If you're travelling between Russia and Belarus , you must have visas for both countries.

Visa-free entry into Belarus doesn't apply to travellers arriving from or travelling to Russia.

Contact the  Embassy of Russia  and the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus  for details.

Registering your stay in Russia

If you stay more than 7 working days, including your arrival and departure day, you must register with the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

You must pay a registration fee.

Most hotels do this for their guests, but you're legally responsible. Confirm with check-in staff on arrival that they've registered you.

The registration process can be complex if you're not staying at a hotel.

Register at the nearest post office if you're travelling on a visitor visa.

Register through your employer if you're travelling on a visa that lets you work. Confirm with your employer that they've registered you.

If you don't register, authorities can fine you or delay your departure.

• The Russian Embassy

Visa overstays

Make sure you leave Russia before your visa expires. Some visas, including tourist visas, can't be extended.

If you overstay your visa, you won't be allowed to leave Russia until the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs determines your legal status or deports you.

Authorities can detain you until they've processed your case.

Penalties for overstaying include fines and deportation.

You may be banned from re-entering.

Customs Rules

Russian Customs provides a list of goods that must be declared when entering or leaving Russia, regardless of whether they come in carry-on or unaccompanied/checked-in luggage. 

Anyone entering Russia must declare cash amounts exceeding the equivalent of 10,000 USD as well as certain types of goods, including jewellery and antiques. 

Items imported by air for personal use that are worth more than 10,000 EUR or weigh more than 50 kg must be declared. They will incur customs duties and taxes of 30% of the cost (no less than 4 EUR per 1 kg). 

For cash amounts exceeding the equivalent of 100,000 USD, documents confirming the origin of the money in addition to customs declaration must be provided.

If you fail to declare items exceeding the value or weight standards, these may be confiscated, and you may be detained and charged with an administrative or criminal offence. 

If you fail to declare amounts of cash exceeding the threshold, your money may be confiscated, and you may be detained and charged with an administrative or criminal offence. 

Make sure a customs official stamps your declaration. Only stamped declarations are valid.

Russia has imposed restrictions on exporting certain categories of goods, including foreign-made medical products. Seek advice from local authorities.

Russia has strict regulations on the export of antiques, artworks and items of historical significance. These are items purchased in Russia or imported to Russia from overseas. They also include modern art and posters if they are particularly rare or valuable.

Authorities may not allow the export of items more than 100 years old.

If you want to export any antiques, artworks or items of historical significance:

• keep receipts of your purchases
• obtain an export permit from the Ministry of Culture in advance of travel — export permits aren't issued at the airport
• declare each item to border authorities when you leave Russia
• be ready to show each item to border authorities
• be ready to show receipts for each item to border authorities

Don't try to export items requiring permits without the relevant paperwork. This is a serious offence.

Russian Customs legislation about the import and export of money and goods may change without warning. Seek advice from local authorities.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for six months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than six months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

If your passport is lost or stolen while ashore, you will need to obtain an emergency passport and an exit visa to leave Russia within the 72-hour visa-free period. If it's not done within 72 hours, you will face a court hearing and possible fine, deportation and entry ban.

To arrange a new visa:

• obtain an official police report
• apply for a replacement passport through the  Australian Embassy in Moscow
• apply to Russian authorities for an exit visa
• include the police report with your application

If you replace your passport while in Russia, make sure authorities transfer your visa to the new passport.

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

•       LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The currency of Russia is the Rouble (RUB).

Russian authorities have imposed temporary restrictions on the export of foreign currency in cash out of Russia. Travellers exiting Russia can't take more than the equivalent of 10,000 USD in cash. Make sure a customs official stamps your declaration. Only stamped declarations are valid.

You must carry proof that your funds were imported and declared, or legally obtained in Russia. Due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Mastercard, Visa, and American Express have suspended operations in Russia. Cards issued outside Russia will not work at Russian merchants or ATMs. Cards issued inside Russia may continue to work, but they won't work outside Russia. It may not be possible for you to access your funds through Russian banks or to make payments to Russian businesses with non-Russian credit/debit cards. Be prepared with alternate means of payment should your cards be declined.

You may not be able to exchange Australian dollars as well as old, worn, or damaged US dollar and euro banknotes into Russian rubles in Russia. Ensure you have enough money to cover your stay in Russia. 

Traveller's cheques aren't widely accepted, even in Moscow and St Petersburg.

Local travel

Postal services between Russia and Australia are temporarily suspended. 

More information 

• Australia Post website

Travel to Latvia or Estonia

Latvia bans the entry of vehicles registered in Russia. More information can be found on the  State Revenue Service website . Vehicles are also banned from crossing into/from Estonia at the Ivangorod-Narva crossing. Train services are suspended. Entry and exit on foot are allowed. Additional restrictions or entry requirements could be imposed or changed suddenly. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. 

If you're travelling through an overland border crossing into  Estonia  or  Latvia , confirm the entry requirements for your destination before arrival.

Australia and other countries have placed sanctions on Russia. Russia's response to these sanctions may disrupt travel and affect travellers. Confirm entry requirements for your  destination  before arrival, as additional restrictions or entry requirements could be imposed or changed suddenly.

If, despite our advice, you decide to travel to Russia, note that some areas across the country are considered  'closed' for foreigners. Foreigners need government permission to enter these 'closed' areas. If you need government permission or are unsure if you need it, contact the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Driving permit

You should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).

You may drive with an Australian driver's license if you carry it with a notarised Russian translation.

Road travel

Driving in Russia can be hazardous due to:

• poor driving standards
• ice and snow in winter
• poor road conditions in rural areas

The blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0%.

• Driving or riding
• the Russian Embassy

Some taxis appear official but aren't licensed by local authorities.

People have reported extortion and  robbery  while taking unauthorised taxis. See  Safety

Book an official taxi through the local taxi app, by phone, at major hotels and from inside airports.

Flights from Russia to other countries are limited. These may change or be suspended at short notice. You should contact airlines or travel agents directly for the most current information.

The  EU announced  that 21 Russian-owned airlines were banned from flying in EU airspace due to safety concerns.

Russian airlines and railways may be affected by shortages of parts and essential technical components for their fleets, affecting maintenance and safety standards. If you're flying domestically or internationally, research your aviation provider before choosing their services.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Russia's air safety profile with the  Aviation Safety Network

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Moscow.  Our ability to provide consular assistance in Russia is limited. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Russia.

Australian Embassy, Moscow

13 Kropotkinsky Pereulok Moscow 119034 Russia Phone: (+7 495) 956-6070  Fax: (+7 495) 956-6170  Website:  russia.embassy.gov.au Twitter:  @PosolAustralia

Telegram: Contact @AusEmbMoscow

If you're in St Petersburg, you can also contact the Australian Consulate for limited consular help.

Australian Consulate, St Petersburg

Moika 11 St Petersburg 191186 Russia Tel: (+7 964) 333 7572 (NOT for visas) Email:  [email protected]  (NOT for visas)

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

Australians in need of consular assistance should contact the Australian Government 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Russia?

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Bringing a dog into the U.S. just got more complicated

What travelers need to know about the cdc’s new border policy for rabies vaccination and microchips..

Key takeaways

Summary is AI-generated, newsroom-reviewed.

• All dogs must be microchipped and healthy with proper documents.
• Dogs arriving from countries with a high risk for rabies face stricter entry requirements.
• Airlines and owners must comply or face entry denial and extra travel costs.

A new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention policy intended to stop the spread of rabies goes into effect this week, creating requirements that could keep some pet owners from bringing dogs into the United States. As of Thursday, anyone entering the country with a dog must provide the proper travel documents and health records for their animal. The dog must also be microchipped and healthy.

The regulations apply to all forms of international travel, including flying, driving and going on cruises. Travelers who don’t meet the requirements could be stopped from boarding their flight.

Rabies kills an estimated 59,000 people a year across more than 150 countries, according to the World Health Organization . Nearly all human rabies cases can be traced to bites and scratches from infected dogs. The United States has been free of dog rabies since 2007.

“The regulations bring the United States into conformity with the practices of other countries that are rabies-free,” said Elizabeth Schuette, president and chief executive at the ARK at JFK, an import-export animal facility at the New York airport.

The entry criteria are more elaborate for dogs who have spent time in destinations with a high threat of rabies (about 110 countries). However, travelers whose dogs have spent the previous six months in a country with a low or nonexistent threat of rabies must also abide by a few new rules.

If you are planning an international trip with your pet, or plan to bring a foreign pup home with you, here is what you need to know about the new requirements.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

Suggestions or feedback?

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Study: Flying keeps getting safer

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Many airline passengers naturally worry about flying. But on a worldwide basis, commercial air travel keeps getting safer, according to a new study by MIT researchers. 

The risk of a fatality from commercial air travel was 1 per every 13.7 million passenger boardings globally in the 2018-2022 period — a significant improvement from 1 per 7.9 million boardings in 2008-2017 and a far cry from the 1 per every 350,000 boardings that occurred in 1968-1977, the study finds.

“Aviation safety continues to get better,” says Arnold Barnett, an MIT professor and co-author of a new paper detailing the research results.

“You might think there is some irreducible risk level we can’t get below,” adds Barnett, a leading expert in air travel safety and operations. “And yet, the chance of dying during an air journey keeps dropping by about 7 percent annually, and continues to go down by a factor of two every decade.”

To be sure, there are no guarantees of continual improvement; some recent near-collisions on runways in the U.S. have gained headlines in the last year, making it clear that airline safety is always an ongoing task.

Additionally, the Covid-19 pandemic may have caused a sizable — though presumably temporary — new risk stemming from flying. The study analyzes this risk but quantifies it separately from the long-term safety trend, which is based on accidents and deliberate attacks on aviation.

Overall, Barnett compares these long-run gains in air safety to “Moore’s Law,” the observation that innovators keep finding ways to double the computing power of chips roughly every 18 months. In this case, commercial air travel has gotten roughly twice as safe in each decade dating to the late 1960s.

“Here we have an aerial version of Moore’s Law,” says Barnett, who has helped refine air travel safety statistics for many years.

In per-boarding terms, passengers are about 39 times safer than they were in the 1968-1977 period.

The paper, “ Airline safety: Still getting better? ” appears in the August issue of the Journal of Air Transport Management . The authors are Barnett, who is the George Eastman Professor of Management Science at the MIT Sloan School of Management, and Jan Reig Torra MBA ’24, a former graduate student at MIT Sloan.

Covid-19 impact

The separate, additional finding about the impact of Covid-19 focuses on cases spread by airline passengers during the pandemic. This is not part of the top-line data, which evaluates airline incidents during normal operations. Still, Barnett thought it would also be valuable to explore the special case of viral transmission during the pandemic.

The study estimates that from June 2020 through February 2021, before vaccines were widely available, there were about 1,200 deaths in the U.S. from Covid-19 associated, directly or indirectly, with its transmission on passenger planes. Most of those fatalities would have involved not passengers but people who got Covid-19 from others who had been infected during air travel.

In addition, the study estimates that from March 2020 through December 2022, around 4,760 deaths around the globe were linked to the transmission of Covid-19 on airplanes. Those estimates are based on the best available data about transmission rates and daily death rates, and take account of the age distributions of air passengers during the pandemic. Perhaps surprisingly, older Americans do not seem to have flown less during the Covid-19 pandemic, even though their risks of death given infection were far higher than those of younger travelers.

“There’s no simple answer to this,” Barnett says. “But we worked to come up with realistic and conservative estimates, so that people can learn important lessons about what happened. I believe people should at least look at these numbers.”

Improved overall safety

Overall, to study fatalities during normal airline operations, the researchers used data from the Flight Safety Foundation, the World Bank, and the International Air Transport Association.

To evaluate air travel risks, experts have used a variety of metrics, including deaths per billion passenger miles, and fatal accidents per 100,000 flight hours. However, Barnett believes deaths per passenger boarding is the most “defensible” and understandable statistic, since it answers a simple question: If you have a boarding pass for a flight, what are your odds of dying? The statistic also includes incidents that might occur in airport terminals.

Having previously developed this metric, Barnett has now updated his findings multiple times, developing a comprehensive picture of air safety over time:

As Barnett’s numbers show, these gains are not incidental improvements, but instead constitute a long-term trend. While the new paper is focused more on empirical outcomes than finding an explanation for them, Barnett suggests there is a combination of factors at work. These include technological advances, such as collision avoidance systems in planes; extensive training; and rigorous work by organizations such as the U.S. Federal Aviation Agency and the National Transportation Safety Board.

However, there are disparities in air travel safety globally. The study divides the world into three tiers of countries, based on their commercial air safety records. For countries in the third tier, there were 36.5 times as many fatalities per passenger boarding in 2018-2022 than was the case in the top tier. Thus, it is safer to fly in some parts of the world than in others.

The first tier of countries consists of the United States, the European Union countries, and other European states, including Montenegro, Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, as well as Australia, Canada, China, Israel, Japan, and New Zealand.

The second group consists of Bahrain, Bosnia, Brazil, Brunei, Chile, Hong Kong (which has been distinct from mainland China in air safety regulations), India, Jordan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, the Philippines, Qatar, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. In each of those two groups of nations, the death risk per boarding over 2018-22 was about 1 per 80 million.

The third group then consists of every other country in the world. Within the top two groups, there were 153 passenger fatalities in the 2018-2022 period, and one major accident, a China Eastern Airlines crash in 2022 that killed 123 passengers. The 30 other fatalities beyond that in the top two tiers stemmed from six other air accidents.

For countries in the third tier, air travel fatalities per boarding were also cut roughly in half during the 2018-2022 period, although, as Barnett noted, that can be interpreted in two ways: It is good they are improving as rapidly as the leading countries in air safety, but in theory, they might be able to apply lessons learned elsewhere and catch up even more quickly.

“The remaining countries continue to improve by something like a factor of two, but they’re still behind the top two groups,” Barnett observes.

Overall, Barnett notes, notwithstanding Covid-19, and looking at accident avoidance, especially in countries with the lowest fatality rates, it is remarkable that air safety keeps getting better. Progress is never assured in this area; yet, the leading countries in air safety, including their government officials and airlines, keep finding ways to make flying safer.

“After decades of sharp improvements, it’s really hard to keep improving at the same rate. And yet they do,” Barnett concludes. 

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My wife isn't 'just' a stepmom to my son. He sees her as his other mom.

• My wife has been in my son's life since he was 6 years old.
• She has taken on a parental role, stepping in whenever I need extra help.
• Even though she's his stepmom, my son considers her his other mom.

After Vice President Kamala Harris announced she was running for president, one criticism lobbed against her was that she is not a parent because she has never given birth to children. But she is the stepmother to her husband Doug Emhoff's two children.

Like Harris, my wife is a stepmother to my son.

I am no longer in a relationship with his father and have been in a new relationship for four years. My wife came into my son's life when he was 6 years old and quickly stepped into a parental role. It was a role she enthusiastically took on.

Although she didn't give birth to my son, my wife is absolutely his second mother.

My son and wife's relationship started friendly

My wife didn't immediately take an authoritative role or force him to treat her like a parent. At first, she was more like a grown-up friend — someone he knew he needed to respect, but someone who would take him on drives to get ice cream or let him pretend to drive her car while I was inside the grocery store.

Related stories

I was worried about parenting with another person all the time. As the primary parent, I wasn't used to dividing parenting duties . My wife was aware of that and always deferred to me as the primary parent.

But the bond between my son and my wife was instant. He had never met someone I was dating before, but he liked her immediately.

My wife has taken on more responsibility as a stepmom

Over the last four years, she's taken on more parental responsibility but never tried to act like she was more of a parent than myself or my son's father. She is a bonus mom, someone there to kiss him goodnight , help him with his homework, and love him unconditionally.

During the pandemic, my wife volunteered to take the lead in helping my son with virtual school so I could focus on work. She created a schedule for him, made him lunch, and ensured he kept up with assignments. When the playgrounds opened, she would take him to play, armed with a backpack full of whatever was needed.

I have gone on several overnight trips , leaving the two of them alone together. My son doesn't even call or text me when I'm gone because he's having so much fun hanging out with my wife. I never have to worry about him; I know my wife will make sure he takes a bath and goes to bed on time.

There are days when I will ask her to tag in and do the bedtime routine because I'm working or want a break, and she does it without question. My son knows that if he needs something, he doesn't have to come to me all the time.

Seeing my wife willingly step into a parental role with my son has strengthened our relationship. I knew I loved her almost immediately after we met, but seeing how my son responded to her made me more secure in my decision.

Sometimes, she still refers to him as mine, and I always remind her that she's his mom, too. We do everything as a team: school meetings, performances, birthday parties . Everyone knows us as his two moms, and there's no one else I could imagine doing this with.

My son now sees my wife as the missing piece to our family puzzle. He proudly claims her as his other mom.

"You're my mom too," my son will say when my wife calls herself his stepmom. He made that decision. My wife never wanted to force a close relationship on him, but he pushed for it.

Media has warped the perception of stepmoms

Popular media depictions of stepmoms are largely negative. The common trope is that they're evil.

For example, you have characters like Meredith Blake in the Lindsay Lohan version of "The Parent Trap," the Baroness von Schraeder in " The Sound of Music ," and, of course, the prototype: Cinderella's Evil Stepmother.

These women are always seen as temptresses who come in and seduce the father into marrying them before revealing they intend to get rid of his daughter so that she will be the only woman in his life.

Maybe there are stepmoms out there who fit this description, but by and large, stepmoms are there to be whoever their step kids want them to be.

I know that's exactly the role my wife plays, and my son and I are all the more lucky for it.

Watch: Why one mother fled Texas to keep her child safe

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