Every step you take sees a shadow that follows closely behind. To the kitchen, to the bathroom, the familiar clatter of nails on the floorboard trot steadily as you make your way around the house. Suitcases lay strewn ajar across your floor, and your pup stops to give you that look. Are you really ready to leave them behind while you fly across the globe? Chances are, that pet camera app has been updated to the latest version and ready to fire up 30 seconds after you leave your front door.
Good news is, this isn’t just your vacation. It could be theirs too. With the right planning, you can swap local dog runs for week-long adventures on European cobblestones, trade neighbourhood strolls for snow-capped Swiss mountains, and finally find out if your pup prefers a spoonful of ricotta or a silver of poached pear, Parisian style.
And no, you don’t need deep pockets or a fancy private jet to make it happen. We spoke to pet owners who turned their dream into reality, and here’s how they made it work.
Coco being one with the tulips. Image courtesy of @little.coco.beans.
The big idea
Given the flexibility for pets to travel in cabin recently, many owners have tossed aside the outmoded idea of carrying a token of their dogs in their pockets, opting instead for the tangible reality of the dog itself.
Take Coco’s parents, for example. As seasoned travellers, they find it unbearable to leave behind their Toy Poodle, knowing she'd be waiting faithfully at the front door.
Coco dressed to the nines. Image courtesy of @little.coco.beans.
Sharing the same sentiment with like-minded owners, Su Kie Wong first saw a pup running freely in an open field post-COVID times back in Perth. She thought fondly of her Cavapoo, Toffee, imagining how wonderful it would be to let her simply 'be a dog' in the cool, breezy outdoors - a far cry from the stifling humidity of Singapore, where overheating is always a looming threat.
Toffee enjoying the cool weather and vast fields. Image courtesy of Su Kie Wong (@toffee_thecavapoo).
Selecting the destination
Now that soaring across the horizon with your dog is a given, the next question begs to be answered: where to?
1. Airlines
When asked why and how they decided on a place, one answer was consistent. Which airlines allow dogs to ride in cabins? As pets become part of our family, it is incredibly difficult to treat them akin to checked baggage that goes into cargo hold. As Fiona Ip, owner of a 3 year old Cavapoo, mentioned, “Tofu flies in cabin, or none at all.”.
However, the privilege of bringing your pet on board comes with certain regulations. As if the limited number of pet-friendly flights departing from Singapore was not restrictive enough, pet owners must also comply with weight limits for pets travelling in the cabin. These limits typically range from 7 - 8 kg, and usually includes the weight of the carrier.
If you own a smaller canine, you have just crossed the first hurdle.
Toffee en route in the sky. Image courtesy of Su Kie Wong (@toffee_thecavapoo).
More popular choices that see higher uptake of pet owners and their paw friends are Air France, Lufthansa, Swiss Air, Air Canada, and Korean Air. When in doubt, phone the airline to check with them directly.
Quick breakdown of popular airlines that allow pets in cabin*
| Airline | Weight limit (kg) for in-cabin pups (inclusive of carrier) | Carrier dimensions W*L*H (may vary depending on flight classes) | Estimated price (SGD) courtesy of interviewees & airline pet fee calculator |
| Korean Air | 7 kg or less | 32 x 45 x 19 cm | ~ $150 - $300 / flight |
| Swissair | 8 kg or less | 40 x 55 x 23 cm | ~ $210 / flight |
| Air Canada | Small enough to stand, turn around and lie down in their carrier |
40 x 43 x 20 cm (dependent on aircraft; soft-sided carriers only) |
~ $108 / flight |
| Air France | Less than 8 kg |
28 x 46 x 24 cm (soft-sided carriers only) |
~ $300 - $350 / flight |
| Lufthansa | 8 kg or less | 40 x 55 x 23 cm |
Contact airline directly |
| SingaPaw Air | NIL | NIL | Depends on destination. Ticket cost is shared among total pax on board. |
*Information is subject to change. You are advised to conduct your own research and due diligence.
Larger dogs, on the other hand, may have to travel in cargo hold as per airline guidelines.
It is worth noting that most snub-nosed (or brachycephalic) breeds are not allowed to fly in cargo as they are more susceptible to respiratory distress due to changes in temperature or oxygen levels at high altitudes. These may include (but not limited to) Pugs, Boston Terriers, Pekingese, and King Charles Spaniel for dogs, and British Shorthair for cats. For more information and breed restrictions, refer to airline-specific regulations.
Some aircrafts also halt pet travel in cargo holds due to extreme temperatures. For example, Korean Air’s Boeing 737 and Airbus A321 reject pets in cargo during summer (June to September) for safety reasons. This is useful to help plan your trips accordingly.
2. Pet-friendliness
You’re bringing your dog overseas, so what good would it be if the destination you are flying to has few to no pet-friendly areas? We are talking supermarket trips, pups in shopping malls and restaurants, hotels that welcome pets as guests, riding openly in public transport, or perhaps a fuss-free Uber or taxi that requires no special booking.
Loki chilling in a mart. Image courtesy of Caroline Nam (@loki_theshihtz).
At this juncture, tons of research will come in handy. Read reviews, delve into vlogs with travelling pets, and mark out which areas are safe to explore with your pup. Generally, places such as Europe and East Asia like Japan see more freedom and fewer restrictions.
Mochi posing amidst Sakura flowers in Japan. Image courtesy of Wei Chiat Chea (@mochixwestie).
3. Quarantine duration
Of course, the whole reason why our pups are tagging along is not to spend time apart. If you do not wish for them to serve any quarantine period when arriving at the holiday destination and during their return to Singapore, take note of the countries listed below. (No quarantine required if all veterinary regulations are complied with and the animals are clinically healthy on arrival.)
United Kingdom (Great Britain and Northern Ireland)*
Austria
Belgium
Bermuda
Canada
Cayman Islands
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hong Kong SAR*
Italy
Japan
Jersey
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Luxembourg
Malta
Norway
Portugal
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain (except Ceuta and Melilla)
Sweden
Switzerland
The Netherlands
USA
*United Kingdom and Hong Kong do not allow the arrival of pets travelling in cabins. Regulations at these destinations require pets to arrive as manifest cargo or held in cargo hold.
Post-arrival quarantine requirements also differ based on the countries you come back from and when your pet is coming home. Returning from some countries requires quarantine if your pet is not brought into Singapore within 5 days of the owner’s entry into Singapore. However, AVS allows the option of a 10-day home quarantine.
It is also important to check the latest list of Rabies Risk Categorisation schedules because Singapore’s Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) has made changes before.
Take the example of Mochi the Westie’s journey. Wei Chiat Chea, Mochi’s owner, had initially planned a trip to South Korea after seeing how welcoming locals are towards pets in public spaces. In the midst of planning, Chea noticed that AVS has since made amendments to the quarantine regulations, seeing a 30-day quarantine at the Animal Quarantine Center instead of a more manageable 10-day home one. This was the point they decided to switch courses to Japan.
Booking your flight
Loki unfazed on a bicycle while sightseeing. Image courtesy of Caroline Nam (@loki_theshihtz).
Airline? Checked. Approved carrier? Checked. But wait - before turning on your laptop to lock in those tickets, most airlines have a cap as to how many pets are allowed in total on flight, not just how many you are bringing on board. To eliminate any issues down the pipeline, it is recommended to check in with the flight carrier prior to ticketing, and once more after to secure your seats, plus to seek final approval.
Coco’s owner says, “Keep in mind that airlines often have a limited pet-in-cabin quota, so be sure to confirm availability of the quota before booking your flight. Some airlines may not allow pets in the cabin in business class. Although there’s no need to purchase a separate seat for your pet (as they’re placed on the floor), airlines usually charge a pet handling fee, which is typically per flight sector.”
Coco putting Photoshop to shame. Image courtesy @little.coco.beans.
Chea advised, “For Korean Air, no prior document submission was needed when booking (the) flight. As Korean Air has a cap of 1 pet per flight in each cabin class, it is required to call in to their hotline to ensure that the pet seat is available even before booking of flight tickets. Upon booking, immediately call their hotline again to request for pet travel. No further action is required until 7 days before the flight, there will be a Declaration of Indemnity (PET) Form to be filled up online.”.
Mochi’s first encounter with a dango in Japan. Image courtesy of Wei Chiat Chea (@mochixwestie).
Timing your flight just right can make all the difference. Selecting a red-eye that coincides with your dog’s bedtime is a subtle detail that will help you tremendously. This could help them better adjust and fall asleep faster.
Practical Paperwork: The Non-Negotiables for Leaving Singapore
The reputation of the word ‘paperwork’ itself may be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right sources of information and a little attention to detail, the journey can be a smooth sailing one. Your best bet would be AVS and NParks website for the departure and journey home. Stick to official sources and websites from the respective airlines, airport, and government authorities and you’ll be safe.
Toffee with cherry blossoms. Image courtesy of Su Kie Wong (@toffee_thecavapoo).
A few key points to note are getting your dogs microchipped and ensuring they are up to date with their vaccinations. Having a veterinarian guide you through and prepare the necessary related documents may be helpful, too.
If you’re not much of a planner, keeping a to-do list might help get you on track. “We made a timeline and checklist to ensure we have everything required. We also planned ahead and buffered enough time to wait for results and/or licenses to be approved. We also checked both the country of export and import websites regularly in case of any unexpected changes/updates.” Ip shares.
For example, a rough checklist for a round trip with your pet from Singapore to Japan via Korean Air will look something like this:
General Overview:
-
Check Singapore export requirements
-
Check Japan import requirements
-
Check Japan export requirements
-
Check Singapore import requirements
-
Check Korean Air in-flight regulations for pet travel
Leg 1 of departure trip
Departure - Singapore > Japan (Singapore export)
(Flowchart information adapted from Animal and Veterinary Science)
Arrival - Singapore > Japan (Japan import)
(Flowchart information adapted from Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan)
Leg 2 of return trip
Departure - Japan > Singapore (Japan export)
(Flowchart information adapted from Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan)
Arrival - Japan > Singapore (Singapore import)*
(Flowchart information adapted from Animal and Veterinary Science)
*view full import PDF instructions on NParks website here.
Checklist for flight
(Adapted from Korean Air)
To ensure that nothing gets lost in translation, Wong suggests emailing in and printing out any necessary documents or written confirmation in hard copy as an insurance to show airline personnel, should there be any disputes. Travel regulations change rather frequently, so ensure that you stay on top of everything, even after the booking of flights to prevent any delays.
If you are short on time and simply detest the hassle, you can engage a travel agent to do most of the paperwork for you for import, export or tranship. As varying agents offer different services, be sure to check in with what each offers and go with what suits your needs best. You can view the list of AVS recognised pet agents here.
Important notice
At the point of this interview, all animals entering or leaving Singapore via Changi International Airport must undergo inspection at the Changi Animal & Plant Quarantine Station, or CAPQ.
However, there will be a new import clearance process for pets entering Singapore (w.ef. 1 April 2026), according to AVS.
In order to streamline internal processes of import clearance for pets at CAPQ, only AVS-recognised pet agents will be permitted to handle the import clearance procedures at CAPQ starting 1 April 2026, regardless of whether your pet requires a post-arrival quarantine.
This means that:
-
It is mandatory for pet owners to appoint an AVS-recognised pet agent before the pet's arrival in Singapore
-
The appointed pet agent will handle all import clearance procedures at CAPQ, which include documentary clearance, as well as the subsequent transport of the pet from CAPQ to the pet owner’s place of residence for pets that do not require post-arrival quarantine
-
Pet owners may proceed home directly from Changi Airport and will have their pets sent directly to them by their appointed pet agent after the import clearance process
-
Pet owners will no longer be permitted to enter Changi Airfreight Centre, where CAPQ is located
Booking your accommodation
Pet-friendly hotels are a thing, and while some charge a fee for additional upkeep, it is relatively easy to find one, especially in Europe.
If you need some guidance, Rox Goh, owner of a Bichon Poodle cross, Wookiee, weighs in: “..it was quite easy to find pet friendly accommodation in Switzerland, and they are as affordable as the non-pet-friendly accommodation. I stayed in hotels throughout the trip, and the pet fee ranged from 0 SGD to 30+ SGD per day.”
Wookiee mesmerised by the vast horizon in Switzerland. Image courtesy of Rox Goh (@wookieeisabich).
Upon researching for her upcoming tour to Japan, she mentioned: “Compared to Switzerland and Europe, there are not as many hotels that are pet-friendly within populous areas in the larger cities. Pet fees for the hotels I found in Tokyo were more expensive, ranging from 0 SGD (rare) to over 100 SGD a day. However, near the ski resorts, or in prefectures aside from the main hubs, you may be able to find nice cabins or cottages that are pet-friendly, with low pet fees.”.
Seasoned traveller Wookiee in her element. Image courtesy of Rox Goh (@wookieeisabich).
You can also try searching for Airbnbs if you are travelling with a bigger group. Chat with the hosts and see if they are open to welcoming pets into their spaces. Oftentimes, Airbnbs offer more flexibility, especially areas outside of cities.
Getting your dog prepared for the flight
Your flight’s booked, lodging has been secured, and the dreaded paperwork is done and dusted. The hardest part is quite literally over, but you have one last thing to do - training. Training helps your dog to better adjust and become acclimated to new environments faster, be it on flight, or facing different weather conditions.
1. Staying in their carrier
Preparation starts months prior to your trip. First things first - before starting your adventure, your pet must tolerate being in their carrier throughout the flight.
Loki looking dapper on a boat. Image courtesy of Caroline Nam (@loki_theshihtz).
For Caroline Nam, who has since moved to Vietnam with her Shih Tzu, Loki, carrier training started 3 months before the flight. With Loki, Nam tried all configurations of the carrier with him in it. For example, zipping the top, sides, and extension (if any) and kept increasing the time period in waves. Remember to reward them in between steps to build their confidence!
Mochi in her pet carrier on the flight. Image courtesy of Wei Chiat Chea (@mochixwestie).
If you have some extra time on hand, training can start as early as when pet travel is in your future plans. Ip says: “We conditioned Tofu to his travel carrier a year ahead, don’t rush the process! We also simulate him being in the carrier on top of our luggage, rolling around in the airport getting used to the sounds of a bustling airport.”
Tofu with bed hair and a big yawn while waiting for luggages after 2 flights. Image courtesy of Fiona Ip (@heytofupuff).
Every dog learns at different speeds, so patience is key. Get on that plane only when they are comfortable. This will also benefit you in terms of travelling there smoothly.
2. Loud sounds and recall
Exposing your dog to loud sounds can start at home. A simple video on YouTube that features the footfall and noise of a busy airport or the white noise of an engine can help them get accustomed to discomfort quicker. Gradually increase the volume and start bringing them out in their airline approved carriers to busy cafes or the airport itself is a great training tip.
Wookiee in her airline approved carrier at Zurich airport. Image courtesy of Rox Goh (@wookieeisabich).
Letting your dog get used to the rigour of outdoor activities, such as hiking and basic obedience (think recall, heel, place, and greeting) will also contribute towards being more prepared for your itinerary overseas, Ip adds.
3. Potty
Knowing your dog’s bathroom schedule by heart (Sheldon Cooper approved) is helpful to navigate potty breaks. If they tend to go at certain times and wearing diapers isn't a viable option, be sure to carry spare pee pads with you.
Some airlines see fewer restrictions and allow you to bring your pet’s carrier into the bathroom for them to relieve themselves on a pee pad. Giving them some outside time on grass patches before entering the departure hall also reduces the need to go while on board.
If you will be on a shorter flight, try restricting water and food a few hours prior to taking off and only feed treats when necessary to reward or calm.
4. Food and water
Wookiee at the airport. Image courtesy of Rox Goh (@wookieeisabich).
On a long haul flight, it is crucial your dog stays hydrated and well-fed. Sandra Tay, owner of a Chihuahua named Koa (@koa.thelittleprince), revealed she brought along some freeze-dried food to break apart and feed on board.
But does going overseas mean having to bring 2 weeks worth of your pet’s usual food in your luggage space? This is not always necessary, unless they are on a strict diet. While Tay confessed that 1 bag was not nearly sufficient for the entire duration of the trip, she considered that Koa would be having local meals, or even some in restaurants that offered pet menus. When he got sick of the food, Tay would do local supermarket runs for fresh lean meat and vegetables. Just note that depending on the type of diet your dog is on, you might require a refrigerator in your lodging to manage their meals.
On the topic of bringing food in, be sure to check country-specific regulations on the types of proteins allowed. Japan, for example, prohibits meat products through its customs and may confiscate offending items if rules are violated or no declaration was made.
5. Entertainment as backup, and other good-to-haves
Mochi showing off her moves in Japan. Image courtesy of Wei Chiat Chea (@mochixwestie).
If it is your first time flying with your pup, it can be difficult to predict how they will behave on board. Bringing their favourite toy, or placing something that carries your scent, like a used clothing, into their carrier will help give them a sense of familiarity.
Nam advises: “Definitely bring a fan - even with (the) cabin being cold I think dogs generally feel claustrophobic in a closed space. Having constant air circulation definitely helps them. I think (it is helpful to) also prepare a lot of different treats and lick mat / chews. You never know which one will do the trick for them!”.
Loki with windmills dotting the backdrop in Kinderdijk, Netherlands. Image courtesy of Caroline Nam (@loki_theshihtz).
Draping a dark piece of clothing or towel over their carrier may help dampen some light and engine noise, especially if you are seated near the wing. Some dogs may feel safer with the extra layer and prevent distress during service where there are trolleys and constant movements in their surrounding environment.
If possible, line the carrier with a cooling mat to improve temperature regulation. This may also help dampen any vibrations that can be felt on the cabin floor.
Tofu in neon green Wagwear Mojave. Image courtesy of Fiona Ip (@heytofupuff).
Travelling during winter? Prepare thicker coats and jackets for your dog that can keep them warm. Extreme temperatures can also hurt their paws. Opt for shoes and leg warmers, such as the WagWear WagWellies that are available for both dry (Mojave) and wet weather (boots) conditions.
*Tip: Drop by Vanillapup located at Cluny Court with your dogs for a fitting. WagWear has sizes from XXXS-XXXL and fits the majority of dogs, regardless of breed.
What should you expect upon reaching the destination?
Pet inspections at the airport aside, Tay notes that like humans, travelling takes a toll on our dogs too. Wherever possible, allocate rest days in between your holiday for them to catch up on their sleep and recharge.
Tofu enjoying the snow. Image courtesy of Fiona Ip (@heytofupuff).
If you’re travelling to farther countries that have a significant time difference, our pups may experience jet lag just like us. You may notice them sleeping longer than usual or suffering bouts of lethargy. If you spot any signs, make sure to factor stay-in time and allow them to work through it themselves.
About wishing what they had done differently with regards to the trip
With reflection comes some regret.
Coco’s owner cautions: “One thing I wish I had done differently is reading all the small prints in documents, policies, and regulations even more carefully. Sometimes, the tiniest detail can make a big difference in the travel process. For example, Korean Air’s pet in-cabin guide specifically states that expandable pet carriers are not allowed, and pets must be (s)towed under the seat throughout the flight.”
But still, she remains unfazed. Coco’s handler says to always ‘expect the unexpected’ regardless how thorough you are with research and that ‘there is always something new to learn’.
Conclusion
How our dogs experience their world is entirely dependent on us. Travelling with your pet can be one of the most rewarding adventures you will have, and nothing beats creating shared memories that will last a lifetime. While it does involve some extra planning, their curious noses, wagging tails, and the joy of having them by our side sniffing out the same things instead of just the hem of our jeans, makes it all worthwhile.
References
Export dogs and cats from Japan
Import dogs and cats into Japan
List of AVS-Recognised Pet Agents
Written by Georgia Lam
Georgia is both a marketer and a writer at Vanillapup. She has an apricot Maltipoo that serves up an attitude with the personality of a feline, but we love her and her stinky paws all the same.
