st martin pet travel

Take home a friend with paws, one by one we can make a difference!

SXM Paws has been actively helping the animals of St Maarten for many years. We are dedicated to giving these animals a better chance at life by rescuing, spaying/neutering, facilitating foster homes, providing food and medical care, and finally finding them their forever homes. With our current Adoption Center, we are able to make all of this possible and help more of the stray population here on our beautiful island.

In an effort to rescue as many dogs off the streets as possible, we rely heavily on our foster program. To find out more please click on the button

If you are interested in adopting one of our Coconut Retrievers, please click on the button to see our Available Pets.

We are a volunteer based organization and welcome all new volunteers. Please learn more about our program and how you can help our four legged angels of St. Maarten.

SXM Paws in a donation based Non Profit Foundation, please click on the button to donate today, you will be saving lives.

2 Tray Drive Cay Bay Road St. Maarten

Copyright 2022 De ZZP’er Buddy

• St Martin / St Maarten Tourism
• St Martin / St Maarten Hotels
• St Martin / St Maarten Bed and Breakfast
• St Martin / St Maarten Vacation Rentals
• Flights to St Martin / St Maarten
• St Martin / St Maarten Restaurants
• Things to Do in St Martin / St Maarten
• St Martin / St Maarten Travel Forum
• St Martin / St Maarten Photos
• St Martin / St Maarten Map
• All St Martin / St Maarten Hotels
• St Martin / St Maarten Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in St Martin / St Maarten
• St Martin / St Maarten
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Bringing a dog to St. Maarten - St Martin / St Maarten Forum

• Caribbean    
• St Martin / St Maarten    

Bringing a dog to St. Maarten

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Caribbean forums
• St Martin / St Maarten forum

Hi Peter-did you end up bringing your dog? We are trying to do the same thing (although she’s small enough to travel with us) but I was wondering how the experience was with all of the paperwork and permits needed..

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• How to have a day trip on a beach in Anguilla? 2:35 pm
• Billy Folly Road 1:21 pm
• Hilton Flamingo vs Simpson Bay Resort 10:48 am
• Ways to get to St.Barts that won't make me vomit? yesterday
• Airport taxi rate yesterday
• Itinerary and Lunch and Dinner Recommendations yesterday
• Condo or Villa Rentals Apr 13, 2024
• All inclusive vs non all inclusive, excursions Apr 11, 2024
• Taxi from airport Apr 10, 2024
• Holland House hotel in Phillipsburg Apr 08, 2024
• Friars bay or Pinel island Apr 08, 2024
• Simpson Bay Resort vs Divi Little Bay Beach Resort Apr 07, 2024
• Should we extend our visit? Apr 07, 2024
• Accommodations for First Timers Apr 07, 2024
• Best Hotel on the Dutch Side 18 replies
• Please recommend an all inclusive 5* adult only resort 8 replies
• Hilton in St.Maarten? 6 replies
• Divi Little Bay Beach and Racquet Club 4 replies
• French or Dutch Side - which is better? 10 replies
• weather in June/July 23 replies
• Mullet Bay and its Golf Course 26 replies
• RCI in St. Maarten 24 replies
• Nettle Bay Beach Club 21 replies
• French side vs. Dutch side? 13 replies

Diary of a Caribbean Med Student

Bringing Pets into St. Maarten

• First, go to your vet and get a USDA veterinary health certificate saying that your dog or cat is in good health. It needs to be issued at the most 14 days before you arrive in St. Maarten.
• Then, you’ll also need a rabies vaccination certificate that shows your pet was administered between 30 days to a yea r before you travel. As St. Maarten is one of the few places in the world that is rabies-free (designated a “Rabies-Free Jurisdiction” by the WHO), the vaccinations are required at immigration. Although all the friends with pets that I’ve talked to have said they were checked for documents, I have heard elsewhere that some people were not asked. If somehow they forget to ask you, please remind them to do so. Rabies has been eradicated from the island for the last 75 years — please let’s keep it that way!

Fido and Fluffy will really enjoy their new home. There are plenty of students and locals here who have pets that Fido and Fluffy can meet. And since they will be in a place that pretty much stays 80+ degrees all-year-round, they’ll look forward to being walked everyday! Well, maybe not Fluffy. Although the dorms do not allow pets, there are plenty of apartments that do, but often with an extra fee of course.

It’s easy to find dog and cat food, litter, and vets here. Any of the grocery stores would carry them, including Le Gourmet Marche 15 minutes away from campus by foot. As for vets, there are several on the island. My cat’s vet is Dr. De Ceuster Virginie at the Animal Care Center in Cole Bay.

And remember, please pick up after your pets! I can’t tell you how many times I… anyway, you get the point!

As for bringing pets back into the United States, the rules vary by state and airline. While technically a health certificate is not required by the CDC for dogs and cats to enter the US, many (if not most) airlines may require them to board the plane. The same goes with rabies. While generally your dog doesn’t need a rabies shot if it’s been on the island for at least 6 months, different airlines and states may have different requirements. I’d recommend checking your airline and state’s requirements regarding importing animals back in the states beforehand.

Related posts:

39 thoughts on “ Bringing Pets into St. Maarten ”

I have found your blog really helpful, as a lot of things I have read on the internet have only bad things to say about Caribbean medical schools, and as a recent applicant for January 2013, I was starting to get nervous! I was mainly worried about not being about to match into a residency. Anyhow, I was wondering what it was like to have a pet with you. I have a small dog that I am dead set on bring with me, but some of the people I have talked to at other caribbean schools (admissions counselors) have told me that they do not recommend that students bring their pets because you will spend most of the day in class then studying. I am pretty attached to my little guy, and I couldn’t imagine leaving him behind. I know having a cat is a bit different as they are more independent, but do you think having a pet is reasonable? Or are they alone too much of the time for it to be fair to them? Thanks!!

Hey Lisa, Thanks for visiting my site! Yes, I say if you love your pet, bring him/her down to the island! There were quite a few of us who had pets, both cats and dogs. Some of us (like me) even adopted their pets while on the island. Pets are great: they bring you joy, they give you unconditional companionship, they are a stress reliever, and honestly, nobody studies so much that their loved ones are abandoned. You’ll always have free time here and there. I’d say, if you can’t imagine leaving behind a furry friend, bring them! 🙂 Best of luck in your applications! Benji

Your kitty is SOOOO cute!

Benji I will be attending AUC in September 2013 and I will too be bring my labrador. I was wondering if you knew of any apartments that take larger dogs. Any ideas? Thank you Angela

Hi Angela, Congratulations on your acceptance to AUC! There have been students here who have brought larger dogs, but I’m not sure where they lived. I guess it depends on the landlord’s pet policies. I’d contact the apartments to see. Benji

Hi Benji, your blog has been super helpful and has answered many of my questions as I get ready to go down to St. Maarten! Angela-I just got accepted into the Sept 2014 class and am also bringing my Labrador. I am now trying to figure out how I am going to get him there-all of the flights have various connections and take a really long time-too long for him to stay in a crate. It also makes me nervous to put him in cargo during the hot summer months, but I can’t find any company that will ship him directly there. How did you get your larger dog to the island? Any other tips you have about bringing a larger dog (with all the young lab energy) to the island would be greatly appreciated!

Chelsea, did you ever get an answer to this question? I am tring to figure out how to bring my larger dogs with me (about the same size). The airlines have an 85 temp limit and it is usually over that in Anguilla/ St. Martin.

Did you have to have a micro chip put into your cat? Our cat is coming with us on vacation since she’s diabetic and needs her insulin. We’re flying in from the states and are concerned with what needs to be done when arriving in SXM. I can’t find any direct sites that list out what we need to do so I want to make sure before bringing her on the plane.

Thank you!!

I got my cat on SXM, and she didn’t need a microchip to go to the states, so I doubt you’ll need one to come to SXM. You could always contact your airline to see what their policy is.

Do you know if it is possible to somehow bring a puppy down to the island? Puppies are too young to receive a rabies vaccine, so is there any way around bringing your lil guy to the island??

Hmm.. good question. I got no idea. I’d contact the airline or the sxm tourism officials to see what they say. I’m guessing the little guy’s not gonna grow up in time?

Thanks so much for this post. It is very helpful. We are looking forward to bringing our small dog on vacation to St. Maarten this December and so I was happy to find your blog.

The papers I have received from my government state that I need to get permission from the St. Maarten authorities before I bring my dog with me. Do you know if this is true?

Hi Daphne, I haven’t heard of this before. I would check with the St. Maarten authorities then for the most updated policies, since things may have changed since I was on the island a few years ago. Have fun on your trip! Benji

One more question…. Are small dogs allowed on the beaches? Thanks!

Hi Daphne, It should be fine to bring a dog onto the beach. I brought my cat to the beach a few times. There isn’t anyone manning the beaches, so it should be ok. Benji

Apply for the Import Permit. THIS PERMIT IS VALID FOR ONE (1) ENTRY WITHIN ONE (1) MONTH OF THE DATE OF ISSUE.

1. The animal(s) – [dog(s)/cat(s) is/are thirteen (13) weeks of age or older. 2. The animal(s) must be accompanied by a valid official International Health Certificate issued and endorsed by the Official Government Veterinarian and signed by a certified veterinarian with a validity of not more than two (2) weeks. 3. The Health Certificate must attest that; a. It/they has/have been vaccinated against Rabies with an inactivated vaccine at least 30 days but no longer than 12 months to 36 months (as registered by the manufacturer) prior to departure. b. The dog(s) has/have adequate levels of immunity conferred by being actively immunized against the following diseases: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Adenovirus and Coronavirus. a. The animal(s) is/are free of internal parasites as determined by a negative fecal flotation test and should be treated within 14 days prior to departure with a registered medicine as instructed by the manufacturer. (Mention the date, time and the product used on the health certificate). b. The animal(s) is /are free from external parasites particularly Amblyomma sp. and Boophilus sp. The animal(s) should be treated with a registered insecticide 24 to 48 hours prior to departure. (Mention the date, time and the product used on the health certificate). c. The animal(s) is/are free from observable cutaneous diseases. d. The dog(s)/cat(s)/ferret(s) must be transported in (a) suitable kennel(s) according to IATA regulations. 2. The animal(s) has/have to be registered electronically with an ISO (International Standards Organization) microchip. The number must be mentioned on the health certificate. 3. The animals must be presented to a licensed Veterinarian within twenty four (24) hours of arrival in St. Maarten. A copy of the Veterinary Health Certificate(s) and this Permit must be submitted to the Inspections Department TEZVT – LVV, St. Maarten.

Thanks for the details.

I am a veterinary technician in Denver, CO, USA. We have a client that will be moving to St. Martin in 3-4 months. The USDA here doesn’t have any information on importing pets to St. Martin and this is the first thing that I have seen that seems legit. How does my client go about getting an import permit and is the above information current so I know what to tell him? Any information would be greatly appreciated!

I recommend taking a look at this link, and scroll to the bottom: http://www.sxmvetclinic.com/site/view/173804_ExportingImporting.pml

Thank you so much!!!

What do you make of the (new?) import requirement effective 10/4/14 for dogs in st-Maarten. The form looks like the one used in early 2014 on this site

I’m not aware of it. What’s new?

we are traveling to AXA ,via SXM and have done this for the past 3 years using an international certificate for dogs and cats filled in by our vet and signed by Canadian food agency authority.Is there another paper we need?

Not sure. I don’t have experience with this. Check with the local authorities or airline.

Somewhat off topic but I was bitten by a stray dog on SXM today and I can’t find any information on the possibility of catching rabies.I’m not vaccinated. Should I see a doctor?

SXM is known as a rabies-free island but I would still recommending seeing a doctor.

Hi Benji, Thank you so much for this site. It was the best blog on St. Martin and bringing pets into SXM that I have found. I’m currently in St. Martin now with my dog (his name is Benji and my last name is Ho…isn’t that weird????) and I wanted to thank you and update everyone on how we got here! So I went 11 days before the trip and the vet said most airlines want 10 days before your trip for the health certificate. So we got him checked out -he had all his vaccinations, rabies, microchip, and I brought his heartworm and flea/tick meds to show the vet (I’m from NY). Then after he issued the health certificate, I had to go to the JFK agriculture department to get the USDA vet to certify it. They are only open from 9AM-11AM. crazy right?! Then scan the health certificate and the import form (found here http://c2-preview.prosites.com/228193/wy/docs/Application%20for%20importing%20animals%20into%20St.%20Maarten%20%5BForm%203(C)%5D%20R2014%20(1) .pdf) to [email protected] Then you’re off. Really the only ppl who checked anything was American Airlines when we checked in (but if you check in online I don’t even think they check). Then you get to SXM, go through passport control (and they don’t care about the dog…i asked), and was directed to customs, which consist of a couple of empty stations right before the exit. I was going to head out but thought…i put SO MUCH WORK into obtaining his certificates, he’s going to be officially here in SXM! I found a door behind one of the custom stations, and an empty office except for one guy on his phone all the way at the end. He said ok, I’ll make a copy of your forms…and that was it. It also says you have to visit the vet w/in 24 hours of landing on St. Martin, but I landed on a Saturday afternoon and they said it was ok to visit a vet on Monday. We saw a vet (whole thing took about 10 min). They gave me a certificate, and that was it. We’re flying back Saturday, so hopefully it’ll go just as smoothly. It was so much work to get the papers, but it seems like no one cares or wants to see them! haha Oh also ahead of us on line was girl with a cat in a black carrier. she passed passport control, straight past customs and out the door

Thanks Tener for sharing this. I’m glad you found the process smooth and easy. When I was living in St. Maarten, I had a cat as well, and it was pretty easy getting her out, maybe because the island is overpopulated by them anyway. As long as you got all the proper documentations and recent vet visit, you are set. – Benji Ho (the blogger, not your dog ;p)

Hi Tener- after you scanned the documents and application permit to [email protected] , did you have to wait for them to reply or send another document to you before you left? Or you just took the documents you had, and left?

Also, I’ve never heard you have to visit the vet on the island. We’ve been taking our dog for 4 years and haven’t encountered that. Is it new?

Thanks- this whole process is so confusing and I’ve gotten like 3 different answers for the same question from the USDA office so I really appreciate the feedback!!!

Hi Benji, First off, Happy Holidays to you and your family! I’ve just finished my first semester at AUA. And I did very well, which makes me eligible to apply for a tutor/TA position for next term, something that I’m considering. Each position requires somewhere from 2 hrs to 10 hrs/week. My main concern here is time management; that’s what still holding me. After talking with current tutors/TA’s though I was told that holding such a position looks great on resumes, which may help when applying for residency. So here is my question: based on your own experience what advantages do tutoring offer? Thank you for your time.

Hi Chris, First, I would recommend tutoring only if you enjoy tutoring. Second, yes, it looks great on resumes. If you let them know that you were a tutor, the attendings writing your letters of recommendation will think more highly of you and write good letters. Tutoring experience also shows that you like teaching and had good enough grades to teach, and many residency programs are looking for applicants who can teach med students. Third, tutoring is a great way to keep up with knowledge, to help you on the steps. Best of luck. Benji

I hope this finds you well. I’m a student at AUA. This Fall (August 2016) I was supposed to start second year but because of some immigration issues I’ve been forced to take a leave, planning to return in January in the Spring.

That’s going to be a semester gap in my medical school education. I would like to know when it’s time for residency application, how much negative impact this gap may have on my application.

Also, is there any activities you would advise me do get involved with? I’ve been thinking about volunteering in a research lab but right now I’m cash strapped and it going to be very tough for me to give my time away for “free”

Any sort of leave of absence is suspicious, and you better have a good reason for it when it’s time to explain gaps in your education. Always fill that gap with something productive. If you can’t find a job in medicine, then at least find a free position in medicine.

Hey, I’m starting school on St. Maarten in September and I’m bringing my dog. Are there many dog friendly beaches?

Thanks, Randee

Hi Randee, congrats on your acceptance. I see people bring dogs to Mullet Bay Beach, just down the street from AUC.

My husband is wanting to apply for AUC, but we have 3 big dogs and he is concerned about taking them with us. Do the apartments allow 3 dogs over 50 lbs? Or is there houses to rent there that allow dogs? Also, do you recommend a certain airline to use when traveling with dogs?

I guess you’ll have to call the landlords of each individual apartment and ask. My old apartment just required a pet fee for each pet.

I have been accepted to AUC for September 2017 and your blog has been very helpful to me! I have a larger dog that I will have to move to St. Maarten with me. Do you know if there are any dog parks in the area where dogs can roam around and play with other dogs off of their leash?

I have no idea. But there is a beach…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Welcome Everyone!

Join the Discussion!

• Nison on Beginning of the End
• Asia on Things to Ask a Diabetic Patient
• KALYANRAMA K on Med School Timeline
• James on Caribbean Medical School Rankings
• WAEL Higazy on Caribbean Medical School Rankings

Popular Posts

• Pet Passports
• Airline Pet Policies
• Ferry Cruise Ship Policies
• Other Forms
• Pet Carriers
• Pet Carrier Accessories
• Pet Crate Accessories
• Pet Microchips
• Microchip Scanners
• Bulk Discounts Microchips Scanners
• New Arrivals
• Customer Gallery
• Security/Privacy
• Shipping/Returns

Popular Brands

• Pet Passport Countries S

Pet Passport St Martin

St. Martin Pet Passport - Page 1

St. Martin Pet Passport - Page 2

Add to Wishlist

Please create a new Wishlist

• Description

This package contains information and detailed step by step instructions on transporting your dog or cat to St Martin (Sint Maarten) from any country. If your pet is not traveling to St Martin, then you can select the country your pet is traveling to by clicking here . 

Carefully following these instructions will make clearing customs easier and quicker. The instructions will also help to avoid having your pet denied entry, put into quarantine or returned to your country of origin.

The Pet Passport Store has been a trusted and reliable source of information and products for traveling pet owners for over 14 years. The information we provide in our passports is always the most current and accurate available. We have done the research for you.

What You Get with your St Martin Pet Passport:

• Detailed Instructions to Import your Pet to St Martin from any country
• Veterinary Health Certificate Instructions
• Required Vaccinations
• Microchip Identifications
• Parasite Treatments
• Inoculation Record Instructions
• Carrier and Crate Requirements
• Tips on Flying a Pet Internationally
• FREE unlimited email support both for you and your veterinarian, should either of you have any questions.

Also included at no additional cost are the necessary forms for your pet to enter St Martin:

• Application for import permit
• Veterinary Health Certificate for St Martin
• Microchip Certificate
• Airline Health Certificate
• Layover Considerations & Requirements for Airline Pet Travel
• Inoculation Record - keep your pet's vaccinations in one place for easy customs clearance
• Pet Passport Folder - (Free with First Class Mail Delivery Options above) Click Here to View

Further Requirements for transporting your dog or cat to St Martin:

ISO Pet Microchip  - Required Microchip Scanner - Recommended if your pet's microchip is not 15 digits Rabies Certificate - Required - available from your veterinarian Rabies Titer Test - Not required Internal and External Parasite Treatment - Not required but recommended

Delivery Options (select above):

Email - faster delivery -  multiple copies can be printed if you are transporting more than one pet. First Class Mail - we print instructions and forms and mail to you. There is a cost for printing and postage with this option.

Additional Information:

It is our objective to prepare the traveling pet owner for all entry requirements that may arise as a result of traveling by air, sea or ground. Enforcement may not be consistent in every country or on every airline, and having proper documentation will better ensure that no problems will arise during your travels.

If you purchase our instructions and forms prior to 30 days before you travel, please check back with us to make sure there have been no changes in the rules or forms required to take your pet to St Martin. All updated instructions and forms are provided by email free of charge.

Find more information on importing your pet to St Martin.

We cannot offer refunds on pet passport packages unless there is a problem with the information or forms provided.

You may also need :

Airline Pet Policies for your airline Pet Passports for other countries worldwide Pet Crates - IATA compliant for auto or airline travel Pet Carriers - Airline or auto safety compliant

Have a crate for your pet already? Get only what you need to update your pet crate .

Have a carrier for your pet already? Get pet pads and accessories for it here.

FAST SHIPPING

EASY RETURNS

GREAT SUPPORT

Related Products

Leather Pet Document Holder

Leather Pet Passport Holder You won't find this beautiful leather pet passport holder anywhere else. Designed and custom-made exclusively for the Pet Travel Store. Clearance Price $19.95</

Pet Passport & Medical Record

MEDICAL RECORD FOLDER - Custom Made for your Pet Free Ground Shipping! THE #1 PRODUCT FOR KEEPING YOUR PET'S VITAL INFORMATION ALL IN

Petmate Airline Cargo Crate Medium

Petmate Airline or Auto Cargo Crate - Medium

Update Your Pet Crate Kit

Do you already have a crate for your pet?  Need accessories to make it IATA compliant? Want products that will keep your pet safe, dry and comfortable? Pick only what you need to bring your...

Leather Pet Passport Holder You won't find this beautiful leather pet passport holder anywhere else…

MEDICAL RECORD FOLDER - Custom Made for your Pet Free Ground Shipping! THE #1 PRODUCT FOR KEEPING …

Do you already have a crate for your pet?  Need accessories to make it IATA compliant? Want pro…

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE IMPORTATION OF DOGS AND CATS

Cats and dogs from the United States are required to have the following upon arrival in St. Maarten:

* A USDA veterinary health certificate should be issued maximum of 14 days prior to arrival.

* A rabies vaccination certificate, administered between 30 days and one year before travel.

Dogs and cats from Central and South America that transit through the United States are prohibited from entry into St. Maarten.

General Information

St Maarten is one of five island areas (Eilandgebieden) of the Netherlands Antilles, encompassing the southern half of the island of Saint Martin/Sint Maarten.

30 best places to take your pet on vacation

Posted: November 30, 2023 | Last updated: November 30, 2023

Travel round the world with your pet with these top spots to explore with your cat or dog

When looking for somewhere to vacation with your pet, you may feel spoiled for choice. Whether you want to travel domestically or internationally, many places love dogs, cats and pets of all kinds just as much as we do and provide pet-friendly accommodation.

One thing to consider when it comes to how to travel with a dog or traveling with a cat are quarantine periods: if you want to visit another country for two weeks and the quarantine period for animals entering the country is that long in itself, it might be worth leaving your furry friend behind. 

However, if you’re looking to take an extended stay in another country, there are plenty of options available that will allow you to cross their borders with your pet after a period of isolation. Here are some of the best... 

New York, New York

If you like urban areas, you can’t go wrong with New York city. If you’ve been dying to explore the big apple, there are lots of pet friendly accommodation and pet boarding services if you don’t want to take them everywhere with you. Visit Central Park and tick something off your own bucket list, and your pet’s!

Bangkok, Thailand

Animals roam Bangkok freely, looked after by their local communities. You can take your pet to Petropolis Park, or visit the Petropolitan Hotel for spa treatments, the pet shop or simply to sit down with your pet for a little while. You can explore the temples and see the sights with or without your pet, with daycares around the city.

Chicago, Illinois

Take your dog with you on a canine cruise, or if you’re a cat lover visit The Catcade, an arcade that is home to many cats who are perfectly happy watching people win and lose at arcade games. You can also visit “the bean” - sorry Cloud Gate - by Anish Kapoor, but you’ll have to leave your pet behind for this one, as Millennium Park does not allow pet visitors. 

Victoria, Australia

We have to include an Australian location, as pets are just as popular down under as they are here. Take a dog friendly winery tour, ride a talking tram or take your pet on a paddle steamer (no really). If your pet is well behaved, you might also be able to take them with you to meet some Koalas on Raymond Island.

St Petersburg, Russia

As well as pet-friendly accommodation, St Petersburg has plenty of walkable areas and parks to explore with your pet. In particular, lovers of dogs (and science) might want to visit the monument to Pavlov’s dog in the northwestern district. The statue commemorates a mutt named Bierka, who helped Pavlov with his research into conditioning. You can also visit Polyustrovskiy Market to pick up supplies for your pet and check out the tropical fish.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, although a tightly-packed urban environment, is remarkably pet friendly. Due to the small sized apartments, many people own cats, birds, fish and toy dogs, but you do still see larger pets around sometimes too. Yoyogi Park is one of many dog friendly parks to visit with your pet and endless pet cafes where your companion will be treated as an honored guest.

Madrid, Spain

Madrid is well set up with pet friendly accommodation and lots of the restaurants and attractions are happy to accept non-human visitors too. Since 2016 you can take dogs on the metro, which makes it even easier to travel around the city with a pooch (or indeed a cat).

Dana Point, California

There can be no doubt that Californians love their pets, with almost 60% of California households owning pets. If you like shopping, there is an open air mall that you and your pet can explore and hopefully bring home some bargains.  

Santorini, Greece

You may not think of Greece when we say “pet-friendly” but the island of Santorini has plenty of pet friendly accommodation. It is worth considering that there are feral dogs and cats on the island (taken care of by the Santorini Animal Welfare Association), so keep in mind your pet might interact with them before booking your ticket. The stunning natural landscape and beautiful white houses will give you and your pet plenty to look at while you explore. 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

We couldn’t make a list of pet friendly destinations without mentioning Philadelphia. You and your pet can enjoy a Philly cheesesteak and traverse the Wissahickon Valley Park, although your dog will need to stay on leash here. 

The Peak District, England

If you’ve tackled all your local peaks, it might be time to take your pet to the north of England and tackle some of the mountains there. You can even visit the grounds of Chatsworth House with your pet in tow and live out your Pride and Prejudice dreams as it was used as the location for Pemberly in the 2005 film. We’ve personally visited Chatsworth with dogs and they loved the sweeping estate land surrounding the house, and splashed in the stream chasing sticks and balls while we admired the architecture.

Riga, Latvia

The capital of Latvia offers several places to stay with your pet beside the Baltic Sea. Soak up some history as you walk around the city, check out the art nouveau architecture or visit the Old Town - your furry friend can accompany you for all of it. 

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

If you and your pet are fans of hiking, Lake Tahoe is a great place to spend your vacation. It combines fantastic beaches with beautiful mountain hikes, giving you the best of both worlds. 

Oudtshoorn, South Africa

There is an Africamps location in Oudtshoorn that is happy to accept visitors with their dogs. Indeed, they have a resident dog called Rufus, who can show your pet around. If your pet isn’t a fan of ostriches, this might not be the best place, as the camp site is on a working ostrich farm, but there are two other locations across South Africa that are also happy to accept animals.

Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland in New Zealand is a great place to visit with your pet, with plenty of pet friendly beaches, accommodation and plenty to do. Mellons Bay, Takapuna beach, and Piha beach are the most popular dog beaches, but if your pet is less sociable, you can find quieter places to go too. 

Bruges, Belgium

You might remember the window-dwelling Labrador retriever, Fidèle, known for snoozing above the canal between 2003 and 2016, even making an appearance in the film In Bruges. While he has sadly died, you can visit the spot he used to sunbathe with your own four-legged friend, as Bruges is a very pet friendly city.  

Lisbon, Portugal

If you want to visit Europe for the architecture, but want to get some sun in too, then Lisbon might be the city for you and your pet. The people of Lisbon love dogs, so you can guarantee your furry friend will get lots of pets as you explore the pastel-colored buildings and historic castle.

Wallonia, Belgium

You can enjoy some traditional Belgian waffles with your best pal, thank heavens, with over 1000 pet friendly hotels, B&Bs and apartments available in Wallonia. Enjoy the medieval and renaissance architecture and take in mountain views in Namur, the gateway to the Ardennes. 

Hilton Head, South Carolina

If you fancy an all-inclusive getaway, this town will take you and your pet into their arms. With plenty of parks and beaches to keep you busy, there are also pet friendly hotels and resorts that are happy to accept pets up to 50lbs.

Venice, Italy

The sinking city, it’s worth getting a trip to Venice in before it completely vanishes below the waves (we’re kidding…mostly). Thankfully, your pet can tag along too, with lots of pet friendly accommodation options and several museums and galleries happy to accept pets as well as people. 

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

There are plenty of pet friendly places to stay in Kuala Lumpur, some will even offer a spa experience for your pet as well as you, with grooming services. 

Taupō, New Zealand

Lake Taupō is a great place to go with an active dog, as there are tons of bike trails to keep you busy and dog friendly lakeside spots to take your pal for a walk. Dogs are also allowed in some theme parks. You can also visit historic Māori carvings and experience indigenous New Zealand from the water.  

Cornwall, England

Another great place for a coastal trip, Cornwall is one of the most popular destinations in the UK for a weekend away. Roll into a traditional pub and you will probably find several dogs snoozing around an open fire, or a resident cat eyeing up your plate of fish and chips. 

St. Augustine, Florida

This stunning area is perfect for beach bums. If you and your pet love to be by the water, digging holes in the sand or splashing in the shallows, then this is the destination for you. Lots of private B&Bs are happy to accept animal visitors, as long as they are accompanied by a sensible human. 

Paris, France

Any Aristocats fan knows that fair Paris is a must visit destination for cat lovers. However, it’s a very dog-friendly city too. Walkable and offering over 1000 pet friendly establishments to house you and your companion, you might find a romantic visit to the Parc des Buttes Chaumon just as fun for your pet as it is for you.

Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid is a beautiful mountain town with all the cultural interest and charm of small town America, but within reach of the big city. There is even an ice cream shop that caters for canine visitors as well as humans. If you or your pet are keen to get out on the water, you can hire kayaks or canoes and take a trip over Mirror Lake to the dog friendly beach on the southwest side. 

Transylvania, Romania

While famous internationally as the home of Dracula, Transylvania is a stunning cultural hub full of medieval towns, castles and amazing hiking routes that will treat you and your furry friend to some amazing views.

Snowdonia National Park, Wales

Brits are known for their love of dogs, and the Snowdonia National Park is kitted out with lots of dog-friendly trails and campsites. If your dog isn’t to be trusted around sheep, maybe give this one a miss, as there are lots of free roaming ovines. For a dog that loves a hike, you can climb Mount Snowdon, which stands at 1085m.

Seattle, Washington

If you want to travel within the USA, Seattle is a great city to take your pet, particularly if you own a dog. Multiple off leash dog parks and a walkable city center make this a great city for a short break. There is even a cat cafe if you can’t take your own beloved fur baby with you. 

Dalmatia, Croatia

The home of, you guessed it, Dalmatians! Croatians are famous dog lovers and you won’t struggle to find pet-friendly accommodation in this region that stretches along the Adriatic Sea. 

More for You

Famous Roles That 16 Actors Never Want to Play Again

Therapists Say These 6 Common Habits Are Fueling Your Anxiety

Tax Day deals 2024: Score discounts, freebies at Krispy Kreme, Hooters, Potbelly, more

After getting fired from one job and nearly canned from another, I finally learned the key difference between work and school

I study people with high emotional intelligence for a living—8 things they never ever do when talking to others

78 Riddles for Adults That Will Test Your Smarts

Women Are Quiet Quitting Their Marriages

How much money will Caitlin Clark make as a rookie in the WNBA?

4-Year-Old Living With One of the Rarest Disorders in the World

I worked for Beyoncé for a year. She wasn't a diva and wasn't passive — it was a master class in executing a creative vision

19 Common Behaviors of Highly Intelligent People

35 Things About "American Schools" That Are Completely Normal To Americans And Incredibly Weird To Non-Americans

Watch This 4K Footage Of A Big Filament Eruption On Sun Triggering A Long Duration Flare

California Residents to Receive $500 a Month Direct Payments

NBA Referees Get Drowned In Boos After NBA Corrects Their Mistake Against The Lakers

100 Funny Inspirational Quotes for When You Need a Good Laugh to Get Moving

Harvard-trained psychologist: If you use any of these 9 phrases every day, ‘you're more emotionally secure than most'

John Jacob Astor IV was one of the richest men in the world when he died on the Titanic. Here's a look at his life.

Coachella weekend 1: No Doubt reunites, Blur flops and influencers influence

New York School Buses Not Picking Up Migrant Children Angers Council Member

Getting Paws to Paradise

Pet Travel to St. Barthelemy

• Your pet must have a working microchip (also called a “transponder”) before getting its rabies vaccination for travel to the EU, and your veterinarian must always scan the microchip before giving your pet a rabies vaccination.
• If your pet does not yet have a microchip or has a microchip that doesn’t work, ask your veterinarian to implant an ISO-compliant* microchip.
• If your pet has a working microchip, but it is not ISO compliant,* you will need to travel with your own scanner that can read the microchip OR have a second microchip implanted that is ISO compliant.* Make sure both microchips are listed on the health certificate!

* ISO-compliant microchip numbers are usually 15 digits long and meet specific international standards (ISO 11784 and ISO 11785). You can check ISO-compliance with the microchip manufacturer.

Vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies, and this between 21 days and a year before the date of the trip (knowing that those of less than three months cannot travel). Treat dogs and cats with pest control.

Plan to obtain a health certificate within 5 days of your departure.

Make sure to have copies of all medical documentation and vaccinations with you.

If you arrive at Juliana Airport (Sint Maarten)

All animals entering Dutch territory at Sint Maarten must be in possession of the “ APPLICATION FOR PERMISSION TO IMPORT ANIMALS ” form duly completed and validated by the authorities in charge.

This document must be filled in by yourself and then sent by email to the address: [email protected]

You will then receive a response by email with the approval of the responsible authorities. No additional cost is due, all airlines in the territory are subject to this rule. In the absence of this document, or if it has not been validated before entering the territory, the animals will be quarantined or turned back. Please note that the certificate is valid for 1 month from the date of issue.

Please make your arrangements as soon as possible to avoid any problems in the event of a last minute departure.