Travelling with your dog: choosing the right mode of transport (car, plane, train)

The project is set, the destination chosen… and one question quickly arises: how should you travel with your dog? Car, train, plane… each option comes with its advantages, its constraints, and above all, its impact on your companion’s comfort and well-being.

The good news is that there is always a suitable solution, as long as you prepare in advance. Here is everything you need to know to choose the most appropriate and stress-free mode of transport for your dog!

🚗 Travelling by car with your dog: comfort and safety

The car remains the most flexible mode of transport when travelling with your dog. A few rules are essential to ensure the journey goes smoothly for everyone.

Safe transport is mandatory

In France, the Highway Code requires that your dog be properly secured or contained in the vehicle. A loose dog inside the car is dangerous and can lead to fines. Several solutions are available:

• A transport crate secured in the boot
• A partition net between the cabin and the boot
• A certified safety harness

Choose the option your dog feels most comfortable with and get them used to it gradually before departure.

Regular breaks are essential

For long journeys, plan a break every two hours:

• Let your dog relieve themselves
• Offer water
• Allow a few minutes to stretch

Never leave your dog alone in the car, especially in direct sunlight. Temperatures can become fatal in a very short time.

Avoid travelling on a completely empty or full stomach

A light meal two to three hours before departure is ideal. An empty stomach can increase motion sickness, but a full stomach can also cause discomfort. Find the right balance and always keep fresh water accessible during the journey.

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✈️ Travelling by plane with your dog: what you really need to know

Flying is often a necessity depending on your destination. However, it is also the mode of transport that requires the most preparation — and sometimes the most reconsideration.

Cabin or hold: what does it depend on?

Each airline has its own rules, but the general principle is, small dogs (usually under 6 to 8 kg, carrier included) can travel in the cabin, in an approved carrier placed under the seat. Larger dogs travel in the hold, in crates that meet IATA standards.

Before booking your ticket, check:

• The airline’s pet policy (not all airlines accept animals, and spaces are limited)
• The size requirements for cabin carriers
• Additional fees
• Required documents depending on the airline and destination country

Travelling in the hold: not a decision to take lightly. Travelling in the hold can be stressful for many dogs:

• Darkness
• Temperature variations
• No human contact

Some dogs adapt well, but others may find it traumatic.

If your dog is anxious, elderly, or belongs to a brachycephalic breed (bulldog, pug, etc.), flying in the hold is strongly discouraged. These breeds are often restricted or banned from cargo travel by many airlines due to respiratory risks.

In all cases, never give your dog sedatives for a flight without explicit veterinary advice. Sedatives can interfere with their ability to regulate temperature and breathing, especially in cargo conditions.

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🚞 Travelling by train with your dog

In France, SNCF allows dogs on board almost all of its trains, under two conditions depending on their size:

• Dogs under 6 kg can travel in a closed transport carrier, for a fixed fee
• Dogs over 6 kg require a discounted ticket (50% of the passenger fare) and must be muzzled and kept on a leash

In Europe, rules vary depending on the railway operator. Make sure to check country by country if you are planning a cross-border train journey.

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Good to know: Pet Cheri offers tailored advice and support based on your dog’s specific needs and your travel plans. From preparation to the most suitable solutions, we help you travel with complete peace of mind → https://www.petcheri-app.com/customer/signin

In the third and final article of this series, we will cover the best practices to adopt once you arrive, as well as alternative options to consider if travelling with your dog is ultimately not the best choice.
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📞 06 16 65 26 01 📩 concierge@petcheri.com

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