International Pet Transport to Washington DC

Pet dogs and cats can fly to Washington DC from Australia on Qantas, Emirates and Qatar Airways flights. Qantas is direct from Melbourne, while Emirates and Qatar Airways fly via Dubai or Doha, respectively. Flight duration is around 24 hours.

International Pet Travel Requirements for Cats and Dogs

• Airline-approved pet travel crate
• Annual vaccination
• Customs clearance
• Australian Government accredited veterinary consultation
• Australian Government export permit
• Australian Government health certificate
• Microchip

International Pet Relocation Arrival

Upon arrival in Washington DC, pet parents can pick up their pet dogs and cats from the cargo terminal at the airport. Petraveller will help you with a step-by-step procedure to collect your pet and the location of the animal lounge at the airport.   

Frequently asked questions

Does my pet need to be quarantined when travelling to the United States from Australia?

Pets travelling from Australia to the United States of America will not have to spend time in quarantine as long as all veterinary requirements and pet import requirements are met. Petraveller can assist with the vet and health checks, and the documentation necessary for your pet to travel to the United States. Read more

Does my pet need to have a microchip before they travel to Washington DC? 

Pets travelling internationally must be microchipped with an International Standards Organisation (ISO) compatible microchip before travelling. The microchip number must be 15 digits long. Read more

Local Pet Requirements

All pet dogs in Washington DC must be licensed and vaccinated. The dog license can be obtained online at the Department of Health website. Dogs are not allowed on school grounds when school is in session or other public spaces unless they are on a lead.

Your pet dog or cat must be cared for, exercised, and have a clean and hygienic living space. Dogs are allowed on both the Metrorail and Metrobus as long as they travel in an enclosed pet carrier.

Living in Washington DC: A Canine Perspective

Washington DC is a fun city for dogs. As a major tourist city in the United States, the capital city attracts more than 25 million visitors every year. Washington DC has numerous dog-friendly off-lead parks, pet-friendly tourist attractions, as well as cafés and restaurants that welcome dogs.

My favourite thing to do in Washington DC is get a glimpse of the beautiful cherry blossoms at the National Mall and visit the different memorials that dot the way. I love visiting the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial to pay tribute to his adorable and beloved dog Fala.

Did you know?

The cherry trees in Washington DC were a gift to the United States of America from Japan. More than 37,000 cherry trees line the Tidal Basin in the capital city. When they are in full bloom, the cherry blossom is a beautiful sight and attracts tourists from all over the world. The area around the Tidal Basin is pet-friendly, and you can take your doggo with you for a long and lovely walk and some fantastic photographs.

About Washington DC

Washington DC is named after George Washington, a founding father and the first President of the United States. Washington DC is an important city in the United States; it hosts the three branches of the Federal Government as well as important government buildings such as the White House, the Capitol, and other federal agencies.

Washington DC is a very pet-friendly city for tourists and residents alike.