 |
 |
 |
 |
Foreign Travel with a Guide Dog
If you rely on a seeing-eye guide dog, there are certain considerations you need to factor into your travel plans. Not all countries permit service animals and in many cases there are quarantine regulations, inoculation requirements, and enough long-term restrictions to make a short-term vacation impossible for those who rely on their dog.
First Make Sure You Have Permission to Travel with Your Guide Dog
The easiest way to research each country’s dog policy is to call or write the closest consulate or embassy for that country. Be sure to take names, dates, and any relevant contact information in case you have difficulties later on. It’s not uncommon to get conflicting information from consulates and their home countries.
You can also check out the US State Department’s section on travel advisories and regulations for certain countries. Sometimes, you can find pertinent information concerning service animal guidelines.
Check with the Airports when Traveling with a Guide Dog
Call ahead and make sure you have written permission from any airports and airlines that you plan to use during your travels. US airports are required to make certain arrangements for those with disabilities, but international policy isn't consistent. This is why you still need to call ahead, make the appropriate arrangements, and have all of your paperwork in order.
Paperwork, Permits, and Inoculations
Transporting animals across borders almost always involves various forms and applications. The exact paperwork required will vary slightly from airport to airport and country to country. But in most cases, you’ll need various types of permits, proof of inoculations, veterinary certificates, and proof of your disability. Because much of this paperwork can take days or weeks to gather, give yourself plenty of time before going on your vacation.
Discuss Your Plans with a Veterinarian
Because your dog’s health is extremely important, you’ll need to discuss your travel plans with a veterinarian to make sure that your dog remains healthy and happy. Is your dog a good fit for whatever destinations you plan to visit? Taking a long haired dog to a place like Bangkok might not be the best idea. The humidity, pollution, and heat can cause any number of complications. Is this destination safe for your dog? Are there lots of feral dogs running around? Are the sidewalks easy to navigate? Are the streets clean? Is your dog properly inoculated for whatever medical tourist destination you plan to visit? Exposure to a new environment might put your dog at greater risk for certain diseases. What type of food, sleeping environment, and hygiene will you be able to offer your dog? Can you easily find medication? Will you be able to find familiar dog food? Can your dog handle long flights and hard travel? It’s not uncommon for some flights to exceed 24 hours (when you factor in the connections).
If you cannot get satisfactory answers to these questions, you might have to consider an alternate destination or mode of travel. Perhaps hiring a personal guide or using some type of walking aid would be more suitable for your needs. Again, these are all personal choices. If you do decide to stick with your dog, make sure you fully understand the potential hazards and complications involved.