Europe is tightening pet travel documentation checks on April 22, 2026 — and the margin for error is shrinking. The core requirements (microchip, rabies vaccine, health certificate) aren’t new, but enforcement around timing, sequencing, and traceability is getting stricter. Don’t wait until you’re under deadline pressure. With PadsPass, you can keep records organized, spot issues early, and be ready when rules shift. Download the app and create your free Pet ID.

Last week, PadsPass exhibited at Global Pet Expo 2026 in Orlando for the first time. Over three days, we spoke with pet parents, pet professionals, and creators, and heard the same thing in different forms: pet travel paperwork is still confusing, stressful, and far more complex than most people expect. This article breaks down what we saw at the show and why the need for clear, verified documentation guidance is growing fast.

Pet travel is booming — bookings surged 260% heading into 2026. But the rules aren't simple, and they're changing fast. From outdated microchip info to wrong-sized carriers, the mistakes pet parents make are surprisingly common and costly. Every single one is entirely avoidable with the right preparation. Here are the five biggest pet travel mistakes — and exactly how to avoid them.