Travelling with pets

General information

Before you decide to travel with your dog make sure the country you are travelling to and the airline you are flying with allow the transport of animals. Check with your carrier for applicable regulations and fees.

Depending on the weight and size of the animal as well as varying regulations in different countries, your pet can be transported for a fee:

on board of the plane in a pet carrier
in the luggage compartment
in the luggage compartment as cargo.

To be able to travel by plane with your four-legged friend you need to remember a few important points:

You have to register the transport of a pet with the airline when booking your flight, because the number of animals transported on board at the same time is limited!
You will pay a fee for the transport of your pet, and the rate depends on the weight of your four-legged friend (including the weight of the cage).
Pets must be transported in designated carriers (except for a guide dog accompanying a blind person), appropriate to their weight and size. When buying a carrier, make sure it is spacious enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down freely in it. To minimize your pet’s travel stress you should get a pet carrier well in advance, to ensure your pet can get used to it. Remember to always put a bed and a bowl of ice inside, regardless of the length of the flight. You can also put a small toy in the cage to help your pet stay in a good spirit during the trip.
A pet transported as passenger luggage in the cabin cannot weigh more than 8 kg (including the carrier).
A pet transported in the luggage hold can weigh more than 8 kg (including the carrier), and the size of the carrier as well as the specific requirements are determined by the airline.

Your pet will also need to have a current vaccination record book (vaccination against rabies), an implanted microchip, a special passport (issued by a veterinarian) with a description of the colour, breed and sex of the animal along with the number of the microchip or tattoo. Please consult your vet regarding your dog's general health and suitability for travel. Check well in advance the requirements for bringing in dogs, paying attention to the regulations of the country of departure, country of destination and any transfer countries. Additional requirements may apply.

Before departure, take your pet for a walk.

Take care of your pet's safety - remove the leash, muzzle and harness before placing your pet in the carrier. If you are considering using a sedative, be sure to consult your veterinarian.

More: Chief Veterinary Inspectorate

Guide dog/assistance dog

Most airlines allow disabled, blind or visually impaired people to travel with guide dogs. However, the passenger needs to inform the airline well in advance they will be traveling with a guide dog, preferably at the time of booking the ticket. Guide dogs are carried free of charge and are not subject to any weight or size restrictions. A carrier is not required. A guide/assistance dog must wear a harness.

Dog park

Kraków Airport has a dedicated dog park. It is located next to the Outdoor Car Park (P2). The dog park is fitted with a bench, waste bins, water fountain and obstacles such as hurdles, ramp and jumps. We encourage all those travelling with pets to visit our dog park.