In moments when the news cycle feels heavier than usual, many people begin paying closer attention to practical details — travel plans, documents, and everyday logistics that usually stay in the background.

For pet owners, this often brings an additional set of questions. What should be prepared in advance if you ever need to travel with an animal? Are vaccinations up to date? What documents might be required?

Having a bit of clarity on these points can make a significant difference when planning ahead.

Most pet owners already have the basic veterinary documentation required for everyday care.

These typically include:

The vaccination record normally has the core vaccines recommended for pets.

For dogs, these usually include:

For cats, core vaccines typically include:

Both dogs and cats must also have a rabies vaccination, which is required for international travel in most countries.

For some destinations or travel situations, additional vaccines may also be requested:

Important note: Rabies vaccination requires particular attention. In most cases, it must be administered at least 21 days before travel and recorded in the veterinary passport or vaccination record. If the vaccine was given recently, you may need to wait until the 21-day period has passed before travelling with your pet.

In many countries, the pet must also be microchipped before the rabies vaccination is administered.

Some documents are issued specifically for international pet travel and may take a little longer to organise. These include:

In the UAE, this document is issued by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). Pet owners can apply through the ministry’s digital system, either on the MOCCAE website or via the MOCCAE mobile application. During the application process, owners usually need to submit:

The export permit is typically issued within 24–48 hours, while the health certificate is usually issued 24–72 hours before departure. The permit is generally valid for about seven days.

Some countries require an official import permit before allowing a pet to enter. This document is issued by the veterinary authority or agriculture department of the destination country and confirms that the animal meets that country’s health and vaccination requirements.

The permit is normally obtained before departure, and a copy may need to be presented to the airline or border authorities upon arrival. Processing times vary depending on the country and can range from a few days to several weeks.

When travelling with a pet, the airline must approve the animal for the flight in advance. Most airlines require this because they allow only a limited number of animals on each flight and need to ensure that transport conditions meet safety standards. This approval is usually arranged directly with the airline after booking the ticket.

Some destinations require additional health checks before entry. One of the most common examples is the rabies antibody (titre) blood test, which confirms that the rabies vaccine has produced sufficient immunity.

Important note: This test is usually performed at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination, and in some countries there may also be an additional waiting period of up to three months before travel is permitted.

As many people are currently travelling to Oman, it is worth noting that the country has recently updated some of its pet import requirements.

To apply for an import permit, pet owners are usually asked to provide the following documents:

The rabies vaccination and the rabies antibody titre test generally need to remain valid for one year, or until the expiration date of the most recent rabies vaccination. If the rabies vaccination is being administered for the first time, the blood test can only be carried out at least 28 days after the vaccination.

Important note: The rule requiring a three-month waiting period after the rabies titre test before entering Oman has been temporarily lifted. However, if Oman isn't your final destination and you plan to travel onward to Europe, you should still allow at least three months after the rabies titre test before entering European Union countries.

Two things to keep in mind before choosing the airline and the country for your next trip.

1. Requirements depend on the destination country

Each country has its own regulations for travelling with animals. These may include age restrictions, vaccination requirements, or additional tests that must be completed before departure.

The most reliable information usually comes directly from the official authorities of the destination country — typically the Ministry of Agriculture or veterinary services.

2. Airline regulations

Airlines may also have their own rules for transporting animals. Some carriers restrict certain breeds, while others set specific requirements for the size and type of carrier.

For example, Emirates doesn't allow brachycephalic (short-nosed) dog breeds to travel as cargo, while Lufthansa permits brachycephalic breeds only under specific conditions.

Important note: According to International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards, the crate used for pet transportation must allow the animal to stand naturally, turn around comfortably, and lie down without restriction. The crate should also provide proper ventilation on several sides and include secure containers for food and water.

Animal shelters across the United Arab Emirates now come under extra pressure as some people leave the country and pets are suddenly abandoned and left in need of new homes. During these moments, support from the community can make a real difference.

As Carolina Cortesi mentioned earlier in her story, fostering can be one of the most helpful things people can do. But if you aren't sure you are ready for such a big step, there are also many other ways to help — from donations and food supplies to volunteering.

If you would like to help, you can reach out directly to some UAE-based shelters and rescue organisations: