How can I travel with my pet through Europe?

Take your furry best friend on an adventure! More and more people are enjoying traveling with their pets, and Europe offers endless possibilities for doing so.

To ensure that your trip is smooth and hassle-free, it is important that you comply with all the necessary requirements to take your pet to Europe. In this article, we provide you with a complete and updated guide with everything you need to know:

Essential requirements

1. Animal identification:

Your pet must be identified with a microchip implanted by an authorized veterinarian.
It is important that the microchip complies with ISO standards 11784 or 11785.
If your pet has a legible tattoo done before July 3, 2011, this may also be valid as a method of identification.

2. Rabies vaccination:

Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies with a vaccine that is valid at the time of travel.
The vaccine must be recorded in your pet’s passport.
It is recommended that you check with your veterinarian the date of the last vaccination and, if necessary, apply a booster dose before the trip.

3. European Pet Passport:

This document is mandatory to travel with your pet within the European Union.
The passport must be issued by an authorized veterinarian and contains information such as the description of the animal, your name, address and contact information.
To travel to Ireland, Malta or Finland, additional treatment is required: your dog must receive treatment against Echinococcus multilocularis between 24 and 120 hours before arriving in the country. tune share more_vert

How to obtain the European pet passport:

Visit the veterinarian: You must go to an authorized veterinarian to issue the passport. The veterinarian will verify the owner’s data in the computerized registry of pets (RIAC).
Vaccination: Make sure that the rabies vaccination is up to date before applying for the passport. The veterinarian will verify this requirement.
Passport application: Once the data and vaccination have been confirmed, the veterinarian will proceed to apply for the passport for your pet. This process generally takes a maximum of 7 days.
Receipt of the passport: Once issued, you will receive your pet’s passport. This document will be essential for your dog’s travel within the European Union.

Additional tips

Plan ahead: It is advisable to start the process of obtaining the passport and meeting the requirements well in advance of your trip to avoid last-minute setbacks.
Check the specific regulations of the destination country: In addition to the passport, it is important that you research the specific regulations of the country you are traveling to regarding the entry of pets. tune share more_vert Some countries may have additional requirements, such as health certificates or specific treatments.
Consider getting pet insurance: Pet travel insurance can cover unexpected expenses such as medical care, loss or theft of the animal during travel.
Get your pet used to the carrier: If your pet is going to travel by plane, it is important to get them used to the carrier well in advance so that they feel comfortable and safe during the flight.
Prepare a first-aid kit for your pet: Include basic medications, bandages, disinfectant and other essential items to deal with minor emergencies.

Happy travels!

With good planning and following these tips, you and your pet can enjoy an unforgettable trip to Europe. Remember that the most important thing is to make sure that your furry friend is healthy, comfortable and safe throughout the adventure.

In the following video from CyPmascota, you will find valuable information on how to travel with medium and large dogs by car: