Pet Holidays from Singapore: A 2025 Guide for Pet Owners

Can You Travel With Your Pet From Singapore?

Yes! Pet-friendly holidays from Singapore are possible if you’re traveling to Schedule 1 or Schedule 2 countries under the regulations of the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS).

Where Can You Take Your Pet?

Schedule 1 Countries (Simpler entry requirements)

✅ Australia
✅ New Zealand
✅ Republic of Ireland
✅ United Kingdom

Schedule 2 Countries (Requires a rabies blood test for return to Singapore)

Austria | Belgium | Bermuda | Canada | Cayman Islands | Cyprus | Czech Republic | Denmark | Estonia | Finland | France | Germany | Greece | Hong Kong SAR | Iceland | Italy | Japan | Jersey | Latvia | Liechtenstein | Luxembourg | Malta | New Caledonia | Norway | Portugal | Slovakia | Slovenia | Spain (except Ceuta and Melilla) | Sweden | Switzerland | The Netherlands | USA

Most Popular Pet-Friendly Holiday Destinations from Singapore

The most common destinations for Singapore pet owners include:
✅ Japan – A short-haul trip with pet-friendly hotels, parks, and cafes
✅ Switzerland – A longer-haul option for mountain hikes and lakeside retreats
✅ France & Other EU Destinations – Dog-friendly cafes, countryside escapes, and pet-welcoming public transport
✅ USA & Canada – Outdoor adventures, pet-friendly road trips, and extensive pet facilities

Pet Travel Regulations: What You Need to Know

Returning to Singapore – Rabies Blood Test Requirement

• If traveling to a Schedule 2 country (e.g., Japan, Switzerland, France, or the USA), your pet must have a rabies blood test before returning.
• The test must be done at least 3 months before re-entering Singapore.
• A waiver from AVS is required for early return.
• Plan ahead, as failure to meet requirements means your pet could face quarantine upon arrival.

Excess Baggage vs. Cargo Travel

One major advantage of traveling with pets from Singapore is that Singapore allows pets to travel as excess baggage both in and out—a far cheaper option compared to cargo transport.

Key Differences:
💰 Excess Baggage: Charged based on the combined weight of your pet and travel crate.
💰 Cargo Travel: Charged based on the volume of the crate, which is significantly more expensive for larger dogs.

🔹 Budget Tip: If possible, choose excess baggage for departure and return flights to save money.

Pet-Friendly Travel in Japan

Japan is the top short-haul pet holiday destination from Singapore due to its pet-friendly infrastructure and beautiful nature spots. And the fact that dogs or cats can return from a short trip and don’t need quarantine as long as they have had a rabies blood test done 3 months prior to returning to Singapore!

Things to Do in Japan With Your Pet

🐶 Pet-Friendly Hotels & Resorts – Many hotels welcome pets, including ryokans (traditional inns) in rural areas.
🐾 Outdoor Adventures – Explore dog-friendly hiking trails near Mount Fuji, the Japanese Alps, or Nikko National Park.
🍜 Pet Cafes & Restaurants – Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto have many pet-friendly cafes and restaurants, including dog-friendly bakeries.
🚄 Traveling Within Japan – Small pets can travel in carriers on the Shinkansen (bullet train), and many taxis allow pets.

How Much Does a Pet Holiday Cost?

The total cost of a pet holiday depends on:
1️⃣ Flight Costs (Excess baggage vs. cargo transport)
2️⃣ Pet Import Permits & Quarantine Rules (Varies by country)
3️⃣ Veterinary Costs (Rabies blood test, microchip, health certificates)
4️⃣ Pet-Friendly Accommodation & Activities

💡 Estimated Costs for a Japan Trip:

• Flights (small dog, excess baggage): SGD $400 – $1,000
• Flights (large dog, cargo): SGD $1,500 – $4,000
• Pet Entry Fees & Paperwork: SGD $200 – $1000
• Rabies Blood Test (for return to SG): SGD $200 – $800
• Pet Hotel Costs in Japan: SGD $50 – $200 per night

Is a Pet Holiday Right for You?

If you’re looking for a quick getaway, Japan is an easy and popular option. For longer stays, places like Switzerland, the USA, and France provide great pet-friendly experiences.

Need Help Arranging Your Pet’s Holiday?

At Ferndale Pet Travel, we specialize in pet relocation and travel services from Singapore. Contact us today for flight arrangements, pet travel documentation, and advice on pet-friendly destinations!

📩 Get in Touch –[email protected]