Pet Travel to Europe
Travelling to Europe with a Pet: Rules & Tips
Pets are now a major part of our family, and it’s understandable that many people want to include them on holidays. Dogs and cats can travel between the UK and Europe all the time and because Europe has fewer cases of rabies now than 30 years ago, it is a welcome treat that pets can travel easily. First thing you need to know is that to travel to Europe, your pet is going to need a pet passport.
Pet passports
To get a passport, you need to visit certain registered vets, if your vet can’t issue a passport they should be able to recommend a vet that can. The passport needs to include your pet’s photo and acts as proof that they meet the health requirements set out by the current scheme. This will cost you approximately £200 and your dog needs to be at least 12 weeks old.
Current requirements for pet travel to Europe are as follows:
– A microchip (which is a law in the UK even if you’re not travelling)
– Up to date vaccinations
– Rabies vaccine at least 21 days before re-entering the UK.
– Treated for tapeworm 24 hours before entering the UK
– Photograph.
If you do not meet any of these pet travel to Europe requirements, you risk them going into quarantine. The same rules apply for dogs arriving in every country so this will make it easier to keep on top of what you need to prepare.
Which pets clarify for travelling to Europe?
Only dogs, cats and ferrets classify for accompanying their owner when travelling to any of the EU member states. The trip must be taken for non-commercial purposes.
Long-distance travel in Europe with a pet
Most of the trains in Europe will allow you to take your pet, with the main exception being the Eurostar which is one of the main trains people take from London to get to cities such as Paris and Amsterdam. If you’re travelling with a dog for example, the rules of travel will differ depending on the company. Some rail companies will not allow large dogs, only dogs that can fit into a small pet carrier. Tickets may be required for pet travel on some trains in Europe, while other trains may charge standard passenger fares.
If you’re thinking about going interrailing with your pet, get in touch with us today!
In regards to public transport, such as trains, metros, and trams will all allow pets, however, you cannot just assume this is the case. Similar to trains, there may be instances where your dog needs a ticket. Do your research in advance or speak to a member of staff at an information desk when you arrive in each city.
Pet-friendly accommodation in Europe
Travelling around Europe with your pet is a fun experience, and now there are plenty of dog-friendly accommodation options in Europe. However, you may need to double-check with your accommodation provider what the requirements are (ie, where do they sleep, do they accept large dogs etc). Sometimes, accommodation providers will state they’re pet-friendly but only allow smaller pets or some accommodation providers may charge additional fees for having a pet.
Check out the travelnuity blog about which European cities have the most pet-friendly hotels!
So, would you consider travelling to Europe with your pet?