Flying internationally with your dog — the mistakes I see people make over and over

I help people navigate international pet travel and the same issues come up constantly.

The microchip thing — Many US dogs have 9 or 10-digit chips. International standard is 15 digits (ISO 11784/11785). Customs scanners at many destinations won't read older chips. Check your chip format before you start any paperwork.

Health certificate timing — Valid for 10 days, but USDA has to endorse it first (1–3 business days). That leaves a tight window. Do the math before booking your vet appointment.

The sequence matters — A titer test done before the rabies vaccine is invalid. Import permits for Japan or Australia take weeks and need to be in hand before travel. Get the order wrong and you're redoing steps.

Give yourself 3–4 months for most of Europe, 4–6 months for Japan, UK, or Australia.