By Lucy Wyndham
The number of pet owners that travel with their pets has risen to 37 percent up from 19 percent a decade ago, according to a survey by the American Pet Products Association. More travel companies are creating travel programs for pet parents and their pets to various destinations including Cuba. Cuba, just like other holiday destinations, has pet-friendly hotels that provide things such as pet beds, food and water bowls, disposable pick-up bags, and more. If you are going to travel with your pooch, it is only reasonable that you and your pet enjoy the trip.
Requirements for pet travel in Cuba
Laws for pet travel to Cuba are pretty relaxed compared to those of North American and European countries. As long as your dog is healthy you won’t have any problem getting your pet approved for travel. Cuba just like most countries issues a veterinary certificate, which forms an essential part of the dog’s passport. To get this certificate, you must have proof that your dog was vaccinated by a licensed veterinarian, 30 days and not more than 12 months prior to entry into Cuba.
Apart from a Veterinary certificate form, you will get an endorsement document from the CFIA and USDA from the Veterinary that vaccinates your dog in the U.S. You should also microchip your dog as a security precaution even though you don’t have to do it when traveling to Cuba.
Planning for dog’s arrival to Cuba
One reason for this is that there are just too many stray dogs in Cuba, and you can never know what diseases they carry. Fortunately, there are a number of pet-friendly organizations and veterinarians on the island that can help you if your pet gets sick there. However, you should plan on how you can reduce contact between your dog and the islands’ dogs as a preventative measure. This may include looking for hotels that offer a safe place where your dog can rest and play without having to go in the streets. Check sites like Bring Fido, Booking.com, and TripAdvisor to find such pet-friendly accommodations in Cuba.
Prepping for Plane Travel
You and your pooch are going to spend a decent amount of time on the plane to Cuba. The size of your dog’s carrier is what will determine whether you will be able to board a flight with your dog. Airlines have different maximum dimensions for soft-sided carriers and kennels. Some have a maximum height of about 7 inches, while others allow up to 11 inches in height. The maximum width allowed can range from 11 to 19 inches and lengths from 12 to 19 inches. In most cases, people with smaller dogs that require smaller carriers are often at an advantage in this situation.
When you are planning this exciting vacation with your pet, do not overpack. Just get the necessities you know your dog cannot do without and the rest you can buy when you get to your destination. You want to enjoy your trip to the Caribbean with your pooch and not spend time decluttering in your hotel room.
