nodenagant

one more on bags, check all the stuff you are using for the first few months but I would just buy crap once you are there. If you have other things you want to take have folks who come visit bring it for you. I had a friend take a bunch of Magic the Gathering cards for me and another suitcase when they came visit.

Also keep in mind when you fly and call ahead so they know you are checking a live animal, they usually only have space in cargo for 2 on a plane. If its summer they won't let you fly with animals usually and when you board the plane remind the folks at the ticket counter you have a dog in cargo so they put the heating/cooling on in the cargo hold and don't buy the cheapest airline, get a good reputable one.

Moved to europe from states with 2 dogs (1 chihuahua and 1 60lb dog). We just checked all of the bags. Big dog was checked like a bag and put in cargo in his sky kennel. Tape food to the outside of the pen and put one of those hampster water things on the cage for him. Dont give the dog anything to put em out (slepping stuff, allergy things, etc.) just let them be as normal. Our's peed in his pen on the way there (was a 10 hour flight). Chihuahua went in the cabin with us. Europe (we were in Germany) was so much easier with dogs. Dogs get an EU pet passport (go to vet when you are there and show them all your vaccines and such and they will issue one). Vet's are soooo much cheaper in Europe, a trip to the vet for both was 50 euro total, no joke.

Can't speak for southern europe but it was also nice cause we took our dogs everywhere, on the train, on the bus, etc. Hope that helps