May 26, 2025

Where to take your dog in Munich

If the thought of Munich immediately conjures up images of beer and lederhosen, you’re not alone. While Munich is world-famous for its annual Oktoberfest and is home to many of the countries largest breweries, there’s so much more to discover here in this Bavarian city. With its rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant culture, Munich is an ideal destination for dog-lovers.

The 1972 Olympic Games declared the dachshund as the official mascot and it has become a symbol for the city. So it’s no surprise that Munich is one of the most dog-friendly cities in Germany. With many restaurants welcoming pups and loads of green space for running around, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Munich.

Englischer Garten

Translated as ‘English Garden’, this 910 acre park in the centre of the city is a great dog-friendly place for your dog to get some air. Dogs are permitted to be off their leash in the park and can even enjoy a refreshing swim in the canal. It’s also the home of Mini Hofbräuhaus which serves some excellent refreshments.

Hellabrunn Zoo

If you fancy introducing your pup to some other four-legged species, why not visit the zoo? They’ve got a fantastic range of animals from Asian elephants to gorillas. Dogs must be kept on a leash while inside the zoo and they aren’t permitted into the animal houses. You may only take one dog per visitor.

Walk the banks of the Isar

The Isar river offers a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city. This 6km loop trail takes you through the meadows and forest that line the river – you can even pop in for a dip to cool off! It’s a popular route so you’ll need to be mindful of cyclists and other path users.

Hofbrauhaus

This 400 year old beer hall has a colourful and exciting history. Lenin and Mozart are said to have been regular customers here. Hitler gave his first speech to the National Socialist Party within these very walls. These days, it sits as one of the city’s main tourist attractions and serves up a raft of delicious beers and traditional Bavarian cuisine. It’s very dog-friendly and staff will offer water and fuss over your four-legged friends as you dine.

So whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Munich.

Europe Germany

Taking a cat to America from the UK: A guide for pet owners

Moving with a pet can be a daunting task. However, our experienced pet transportation team organises around 150-180 flights for pets per month, so you can rest assured that your four-legged friend is in good hands. It’s why we’re one of the top pet couriers UK. North America is one of our most popular destinations when it comes to our pet transport service. With plenty of direct flights across the UK to many of the major U.S cities, America cat travel is fairly simple. From arranging cat passports, to putting cats on a plane, we know all there is to know about shipping cats overseas and taking a cat to America.

What documentation does my cat need?

Taking a cat to America is fairly uncomplicated in terms of required documentation. Cats and dogs don’t need a permit to enter the United States. They will require a rabies vaccination card, which can be issued by your veterinarian when your pet receives a rabies vaccination. This will be valid for as long as the vaccinations are up to date.

Will my cat need any vaccinations?

No, your cat will not need any vaccinations before travelling to America. The U.S Government classes the UK as being rabies-free. However, if your pet does not have a rabies vaccination, you will be required to sign a confinement agreement. This states that your pet must be kept away from other animals for at least 30 days following a rabies vaccination. The rules vary from state to state so it is worth checking the law for the region you will be travelling to. You will need to visit your veterinarian to obtain a health certificate, stating that your cat is fit and well enough to fly.

How will my cat travel on the plane?

Your cat will travel in a heated and pressurised hold area on the plane. They will be in a custom made crate that will give them enough room to move around comfortably. Unfortunately, your cat cannot travel with toys as these pose a choking hazard. We will supply all the necessary bedding required to make your cat comfortable. However, if you would like to include a small item (like a towel or t-shirt) that smells like home then this is acceptable.

What happens when my cat arrives in America?

We can recommend an agent that will arrange for your pet to be collected when they land. They will then arrange transportation to your new home. Alternatively, you can collect your cat from the cargo area yourself. We will provide you with tracking information and contact details for handling agents at the airport. This will allow you to discuss collection arrangements with them directly. You will need to go through customs to complete some paperwork before being allowed to collect them.

For more information on taking pets to the USA and to get started today, see our dedicated page here.

USA

On The Move: Exploring Pet Transport Costs And Crates

It is essential to understand these factors to ensure a stress-free journey for your dog. The costs involved include airline fees and crate specifications. Choosing a crate is crucial for your pet’s comfort and safety during travel. This guide delves into transport costs and the importance of an appropriate crate for a secure journey for your pet.

Flights

British Airways, Qantas, United Airlines, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Thai Airways are some of the pet-friendly airlines in the UK. However, airlines may not allow dogs in the cabin or have specific restrictions on dog breeds. Check with the airline regarding their pet policy and requirements; not all airlines allow pets to travel to every destination they serve. Most airlines allow small pets in the cabin for a fee. Pets must weigh less than 8kg and be booked directly through the airline. Service dogs are an exception to this.

Crates

Many clients contact us to arrange transport for their dogs and often inform us that they will be using their crates. However, the UK is strict in determining whether the crate is adequate for transport.

The rules state that the dogs must be able to turn around, lie down comfortably, and stand up without their head touching the roof. To ensure a crate is adequate, measure your dog’s length, height, and width to ensure a good fit.

When transporting your cat, choose a crate that is 1.5 times their length. It should be wide enough for them to turn around and have space for a litter box and water bowl.

Crate sizes:

Small (Up to 30 lbs):

L: 21 to 28 inches, W: 16 to 24 inches, H: 15 to 20 inches

Medium (30 to 70 lbs):

L: 28 to 36 inches, W: 24 to 28 inches, H: 20 to 26 inches

Intermediate (70 to 90 lbs):

L: 36 to 42 inches, W: 28 to 30 inches, H: 26 to 30 inches

Large (90 to 150 lbs):

L: 42 to 48 inches, W: 30 to 36 inches, H: 30 to 34 inches

Extra-Large (150+ lbs):

L: over 48 inches, W: over 36 inches, H: over 34 inches

For a cat check your airline’s pet crate requirements and restrictions. Consider your cat’s temperament and size when choosing between soft-sided and hard-sided crates, with the latter providing more protection and stability for longer journeys or cargo hold travel.

Pets can have a small blanket or bedding for comfort, but Petair UK provides veterinary bedding for all crates. Toys are considered a choking hazard, so pets are not allowed toys or chews on planes.

Something you might consider is a fixed water container. Also known as a kennel water dispenser that provides water for pets during transport, ensuring they remain hydrated.

Transportation

The transportation cost of a pet from the UK to the USA varies based on factors like pet size, airline, service type, travel distance, route, destination state requirements, and additional services. Costs range from £500 to £2,000 or more. Here’s a breakdown of potential expenses:

Airline Fees: Airlines charge transport fees which can vary significantly. Depending on the airline and the type of service, costs can range from £100 to £500 or more. Some airlines may have specific policies and fees for pet transport.

Crate and Accessories: You’ll need an airline-approved travel crate for your pet, and the cost can range from around £30 to £300 or more, depending on the size and quality.

Health Certificates and Vaccinations: Veterinary costs of health certificates, which are required, and vaccinations can vary. Meanwhile, the cost of health certificates can range from £50 to £150+.

Microchipping: Ensuring your pet has an ISO microchip, required for international travel, might cost around £20 to £50+.

Professional Pet Transport Services: A pet transport service like PetAir, can have varying costs based on the service and requirements of your pet. Examples of these costs might include crate rental, documentation assistance, and more.

Quarantine: Depending on the destination state in the USA and the specific requirements, there might be quarantine expenses.

Additional Requirements: Some countries, including the USA, have specific requirements for pet importation. These might include specific tests, treatments, or paperwork. Costs for these additional requirements can vary.

To ensure a stress-free journey for your pet, get quotes from airlines, research regulations, and consider professional pet transport services like PetAir for guidance and cost estimates.

Remember, depending on regulations and how your cat is transported, you may need to remove your cat from the carrier and carry them through security while the carrier is screened separately. Using a harness and leash can ensure your cat’s safety during security checks.

Understanding the financial aspects allows us to budget while selecting the right crate size reflects our commitment to your pet’s well-being. With every detail considered, your loyal companion can embark on a new chapter with a sense of security, knowing they’ve been cared for every step of the way.

Planning a trip with your beloved pet can be exciting yet overwhelming. From travel regulations to their safety, there’s a lot to think about. That’s where PetAir comes in. Reach out to us for your furry friend’s upcoming adventure. We’re not just experts; we’re animal lovers who care about their well-being. Contact us today to make their journey safe and positive!

Navigating Pet Travel to the United States: Health and Vaccines

A successful journey to the United States with a pet requires planning and preparation. This article provides the essential veterinarian requirement for travelling with furry friends.

Before you travel, you might want to be aware of the following:

Your puppy must be at least 15 weeks old to travel abroad due to the 21-day wait after rabies vaccination which they can receive at 12 weeks old. Similarly, with cats, they must be around 5-months old with their rabies vaccination to be fit for travel; cats receive this vaccination at 3-months old.

Pets that have travelled to or from a high-risk country in the past six months are required by CDC to present a rabies vaccination certificate.

Check state regulations for your pet’s breed before travelling as specific breeds may be restricted or denied entry.

Pets travelling to the United States do not need to be quarantined if they meet all the requirements.

When travelling with your pets to the USA, you must adhere to veterinarian requirements, including obtaining a health certificate. This certificate confirms a pet’s good health, vaccinations, and screenings. Visit a certified veterinarian for an examination covering vaccinations, microchipping, and physical conditions. A health certificate is issued within ten days of travel to meet USA entry requirements. This ensures the safety of your pet, fellow travellers, and the destination country.

Getting an ISO microchip is essential for permanent and globally recognized identification. This ensures that your pet can be identified throughout its travels. It contains a unique identification code that is compatible with various scanning devices, making it an essential identification method for international travel. This is particularly important when travelling to the USA, where regulatory authorities require strict identification protocols for entry.

A vaccination certificate is essential for your pet when travelling to the USA. This certificate proves your pet is immunised against common and dangerous diseases, meeting the entry requirements for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The certificate also expedites customs and immigration procedures upon arrival. Be sure to obtain the certificate from your veterinarian within a specific time frame before travelling.

Dog vaccinations

According to USDA regulations, dogs leaving for the USA require a screwworm inspection. This should take place within five days of departure, your dog must be inspected by a certified veterinarian to ensure compliance with entry protocols.

Tapeworm treatment is necessary for dogs travelling to the United States to prevent parasitic infections. Administer deworming medication with your veterinarian’s guidance no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours before travel.

African Swine Fever is highly contagious, travellers should avoid contact with pigs and pig products to prevent the spread. Take caution with dog food or products that contain pork-derived ingredients. Wash and disinfect your dog’s belongings before travel to prevent the spread and adhere to USDA regulations.

Cat Vaccinations

Kittens should receive their first vaccination between 6 to 8 weeks of age and continue to receive them every 3 to 4 weeks until they reach 16 weeks.

Feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia are diseases covered by the FVRCP vaccine. It is a necessary vaccine for cats, especially those who travel. Vaccines should be kept up to date, not missed or overdue. A veterinarian can review your cat’s vaccination history and provide personalised recommendations based on your specific situation to ensure a smooth journey.

Consult your vet before travelling to ensure your cat is up to date on vaccinations and to discuss any health concerns.

For international pet travel, meticulous planning and unwavering care are essential for a safe journey to the USA. Health certificates, CDC rabies vaccinations, tapeworm treatments, and precautions against African swine fever are all necessary to ensure the well-being of our cherished companions.

USA

Where to take your dog in Europe

Europe is an incredible continent full of diverse landscapes, rich and varied history and a huge range of different foods and cuisines. With so many languages to navigate it can feel pretty daunting, but rest assured that the language of dog-love is universal! Make sure you’ve checked all the rules and requirements for each individual country before you begin your trip if you’re planning to visit several in one go. There are many places to take your dog in Europe that are extremely pet-friendly.

Italy

Italy is about as dog-friendly as you can get. With plenty of gorgeous landscapes to explore, from rugged coastline to jaw-dropping mountains, it’s the perfect place for outdoor adventures. There are also a surprising number of sightseeing options with a dog. Many historical attractions allow you to bring a dog on a leash, but make sure you check with each site before visiting. There are loads of dog-friendly hotels & restaurants too.

Latvia

You’d be hard pushed to find a more pet-friendly country than Latvia. Dogs are welcome to join you on public transport in the capital city of Riga. Many restaurants also allow dogs, particularly in outdoor seating areas during the summer. Over half of the hotels in Riga are pet-friendly too so you should have plenty of options when choosing somewhere to stay. Many of the tourist sights and beaches are dog-friendly in Latvia too.

Slovenia

The picturesque country of Slovenia is wonderfully dog-friendly. Many hotels, tourist sites and restaurants are very dog-friendly too. You are even allowed to take your dog to the zoo in Ljubljana. If cities aren’t your vibe then don’t fret, Slovenia is not short on stunning natural beauty. There are loads of hiking trails through the mountains that permit dogs which will allow you to explore the great outdoors.

Germany

With 21% of German households having a pet dog it’s no surprise that it’s considered one of the most dog-friendly destinations in Europe. Dogs are definitely treated like a member of the family in Germany. It’s not unusual to see them joining their owners in shops and cafes.

So if you’re planning a trip with your dog in Europe, make sure you check out one of these pet-friendly destinations!

Where to take your dog in Ireland

With its lush landscapes, rich history and dog-friendly culture, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Ireland. With 25% of households owning a pet dog, you’ll find the Emerald Isle very welcoming to your four-legged friend. Explore the birthplace of Oscar Wilde and discover the many medieval castles dotted around the countryside, knowing that a pint of Guinness awaits at the local pub.

Devil’s Glen walk, County Wicklow

This circular 5 mile walk in County Wicklow, just south of Dublin, has it all. Beautiful woodlands, stunning hilltop views and a waterfall to top it all off! This moderately challenging loop takes around 2.5 hours to complete and is mostly a well-trodden, popular path using some access roads. Dogs are welcome and can be off-leash in some areas.

The Secret Garden, Galway

This family-owned tea shop is about as cute and cosy as they come. There are over 100 different varieties of tea on offer and a menu of delicious cakes to choose from, with plenty of vegan and gluten free options too. There is a charming outdoor courtyard strung with fairy lights to relax in.

Johnstown Castle, Wexford

This gothic-revival castle is set on an 120-acre estate in Wexford. The fairytale-esque castle dates back more than 800 years and features wood panelling, crystal chandeliers and an 86-metre servants passageway. The ornamental gardens are stunning and make for a lovely afternoon strolling around the lake admiring the follies and statues. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. The cafe, shop, visitor centre and gardens allow dogs inside but the castle and museum do not.

The Harbour Bar, County Wicklow

Established in 1872, this local institution has a history as varied and colourful as its interior. Open from 12pm daily, with a busy schedule of ever-changing live acts, it really is a vibrant venue. As you’d expect from an Irish pub, there’s a roaring fire, cosy armchairs and board games galore in ‘The Good Room’, a quieter ‘snug’ area and an outdoor heated beer garden where your dog can join you for a pint. They serve food from 1pm-9pm daily, offering classic fish and chips and hearty toasties.

Whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Ireland.

Europe

Where to take your dog in Germany

Germany is a country that conjures up a lot of inspiring imagery in the mind of a hopeful traveller. With fairytale castles hidden in deep wooded forests, and cities containing palaces and other cultural delights, it’s a feast for the senses. And a feast for the stomach too! Known for incredible beer, sausages and rich, hearty cuisine, you certainly won’t go hungry when you visit! Although recent studies reveal that cats are the most popular pet in Germany, you can be sure that your dog will also receive a warm welcome. Dogs are welcome on most forms of public transport and are expected to be on their best behaviour at all times! Whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Germany.

DogTap, Berlin

From master brewers, BrewDog, DogTap Berlin is the Scottish brewery’s European HQ. And it’s a beer-drinking dog-owners paradise. With freshly brewed beer on tap and a huge menu catering for all dietary needs, you could spend an entire day here with no problem. There’s an interactive beer museum on site, as well as a bowling alley, beer school, mini golf and shuffle board. And the best part, there’s a dog park! It’s completely fenced off so you can enjoy your brew knowing that your four-legged friend is safe and happy.

Nanstein Castle Ruins, Landstuhl

This 3-mile circular hike in west Germany takes you around not one, but two historical ruins. A UNESCO site, the Palatinate forest is a biosphere reserve featuring dense forests and was the first of its kind in Europe. Starting from the community centre in the town of Landstuhl, you’ll pass the medieval ruins of Nanstein Castle, which was originally built around 1152 for King Frederick I. You’ll then pass the Roman ruins of Heidenfelsen and the Pagan springs. Dogs are welcome to join you on this route and may be off-leash in some areas. Although it’s a short route, and described as ‘family-friendly’, it’s also considered moderately challenging due to the hilly terrain.

Amelie’s Wohnzimmer, Frankfurt

This cute & quirky cafe in Frankfurt has a bright, creative menu featuring hearty breakfast dishes, soups, stews and daily specials made using local ingredients. It’s child-friendly, pet-friendly and has plenty of vegan and vegetarian options available. The cafe will give your dog some water and even treat them to a slither of sausage.

Dog Christmas Market, Hamburg

Yes, you read that correctly. Hamburg has its very own dedicated dog Christmas market. The ‘Hamburger Hundeweihnachtsmarkt’ features numerous stalls selling various doggy treats, gifts and goodies. It’s the perfect place to pick up a present for your pooch, or the dog lover in your life. There’s a dog photographer onsite to snap the perfect picture and plenty of food and drink stands to keep you well fed and watered!

Whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Germany.

Europe Germany

Where to take your dog in Whistler, Canada

Maybe you’re thinking of taking a dog to Canada, or maybe you live near Whistler and wanted to visit with your four-legged friend. Travelling with dogs couldn’t be easier in this friendly Canadian alpine village. Offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world, it’s easy to think that winter is the best time to visit Whistler. But the popular mountain town also offers some fantastic outdoor options in the summertime too. Think stand-up paddleboarding on crystal clear lakes and mountain hikes with views like panoramic works of art. To top it all off, Whistler is geared up for pet travelling all year round. So whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Whistler, Canada.

Whistler Olympic Park

One of the best things about pet travel is that you get to discover new things about an area. Like, the fact that the Olympic Park at Whistler has 11 dog-friendly ski trails and 7 dog-friendly snowshoe trails that allow your pup to frolic in the snow! The Sea to Sky Corridor offers 20km of snowshoe trails – some of which are off-leash. As well as 30km of cross-country ski trails which are open to dogs.

Hunter Gather

Open since 2017, this tap house serves freshly made, honest food. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the menu features items like smoked brisket sandwich, avocado toast as well a range of locally brewed beers on tap. Enter via the patio which is surrounded by pine trees and offers ample picnic benches. Dogs are welcome here and the staff are very accommodating.

Bayly Park Dog Park

Bayly Park is a popular spot for friends and families as there are several activities to be enjoyed there. As well as two sandy volleyball courts, there is also a children’s playground, tennis court, picnic benches and an off-leash dog park. The large fenced dog park offers plenty of space for your dog to run free. There is also an agility training course and doggy poo bags provided.

Barking Bay at Rainbow Park

If you’re looking for the pinnacle of Canada dog travel, you may have just found it. Barking Bay has got everything you need for you and your pup to cool off on a hot summer’s day. There is a small grassy area of lawn where your dog can run off-leash. In addition to this, there is also a designated doggy dock where your four-legged friend can leap into the lake.

Whatever you enjoy when you are with your pet travelling, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Whistler, Canada.

We have lots more useful information about taking your dog to Canada here.

Canada

Where to take your dog in Malta

From dog-friendly beaches and parks, to historic sites and nature trails, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Malta. This European archipelago is brimming with Mediterranean charm and is a great destination for dog lovers.

Two Buoys

This Australian-inspired cafe overlooking the bay in St Julian’s is a popular breakfast & brunch spot. The fresh, vibrant dishes include items like pancakes, salads, steak, tacos & burgers. The staff are very pet-friendly and dogs will be well looked after. Please note that the cafe is closed on Mondays.

Zonqor Point

This dog-friendly beach in Marsascala is said to be one of the largest on the island. Although the terrain here is rocky, it is still easy to get onto the beach. Access to the sea is manageable for humans and dogs thanks to a series of ladders and handrails.

Nadur and Rihan Valley Circular hike

This easy circular trail takes around 1.5 hours to complete. It’s a popular route for mountain biking, hiking and bird watching but it remains fairly quiet year-round. Dogs are permitted on this route and are allowed to be off-leash in some areas.

Żabbar dog park

This dog park opened in 2019 after an $80,000 investment from the local council. Dogs can enjoy the numerous agility facilities featured in this fully fenced dog park. There are plenty of trees in the park to provide shade and benches for humans to rest on.

PetShopMalta.com

This online pet shop also has a physical location in Swatar. Open during the week from 8am-7pm and until lunchtime at the weekend, this pet shop offers all you could ever want for your four-legged friends. From food to toys to home accessories, the shop also has an onsite groomers to keep your pets looking great too.

Pet Mania Dog Bakery

This family-owned bakery specialises in all-natural homemade dog treats. Containing no soy, corn or wheat and without added preservatives, sugar and salt, these treats are a great choice for your four-legged friend. If you’re looking for a special way to celebrate an occasion with your dog, this is the place to go.

So whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Malta.

Europe

Where to take your dog in Toulouse, France

Situated in the picturesque southwestern region of the country, Toulouse offers a delightful mix of rich history and vibrant culture. Known as the ‘La Ville Rose’ thanks to its unique churches built of blushing pink bricks and terracotta shop fronts, Toulouse is a picture postcard wonderland.

With more than 80 dedicated dog-friendly spaces, the city of Toulouse is a great place to take your dog in France. So whatever you enjoy doing, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Toulouse, France.

The Twin Bridges walk

This 5km circular walk is located north-west of central Toulouse. Starting from the Avenue de l’Ancien Vélodrome, this easy route takes you along the banks of the tree-lined La Garonne canal as well as through some more urban areas. Dogs are welcome to join you but must be kept on a lead.

Maskotte

This concept pet store is located in the centre of Toulouse and is open from 10am-7pm Tuesday-Saturday. (Please note that they also close for lunch!) As well as offering a fantastic range of quirky and unique items for cats & dogs, the shop also features a self-service grooming area. Opened in April 2023, owner Flovia provides excellent customer service as you browse their collection of ‘well thought out, beautiful and fun’ gifts and products for your pet.

Jardin Royal

This park is 1.7 hectares of peace and tranquility in the south easy of the city. Created in 1754, it was the first public garden in the city. It is free to enter and features a range of exotic tree species, a pretty bridge and a lake with a duck house in the centre. You can also find a statue celebrating The Little Prince in memory of its author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. There are two designated dog areas within the park.

Place du Capitole

Take a leisurely stroll around the Place du Capitole, the iconic main square of Toulouse. You’ll need to keep your dog on a leash as you navigate the bustling streets and soak in the atmosphere. Spend the afternoon exploring the local shops, cafes and restaurants. Find a nice spot with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a drink or a light lunch with your pet by your side.

Whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Toulouse, France.

Europe France