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Travelling with pets requires a lot of exploration. Different countries and different travel companies have their own requirements for trips. However, in this article, we will talk about the general information that applies to most cases.
We will explain how to travel with pets to Europe, what requirements their owner must follow, and give tips on how to make travelling more comfortable.
General requirements for travelling with pets to the EU
Several requirements must be fulfilled when travelling with pets to the European Union. The basic ones are that the pet:
- is microchipped;
- has vaccination against rabies;
- has a pet passport and a health certificate;
- has a suitable carrier.
Countries might have additional requirements for pets, so it is better to check the rules of a specific country in advance.
Dogs, cats and ferrets are generally allowed in European countries. However, some countries put restrictions on certain breeds of dogs. For example, Denmark banned American Bulldogs, Boerboels, Caucasian Shepherds, Pitbull Terriers, Tosa Inu, and some others. These dogs can only be transited through Denmark without leaving their travelling crate.
Foreigners can also enter the EU with more exotic animals, such as a turtle, a chinchilla, or a lizard. All exotic animals must be microchipped and have a pet passport. Other requirements for them vary depending on the destination country, airline company, and type of animal.
Travelling with animals considered endangered requires an approval from CITES,
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
All pets must be taken to Europe for non-commercial reasons. To prove it, you must fill out a special declaration.
The allowed number of pets one can travel with is five. Taking more than five pets to Europe is permitted if they participate in some event, such as a competition, exhibition or sporting event. In this case, you must prove it by showing, for example, a registration document.
If you travel with more than five pets and don’t meet the requirements above, your animals are considered imported products and must comply with import rules.
Requirements for travelling with pets by plane
Allowed pets. Most airline companies allow travelling with dogs, cats and ferrets that are at least 6 months old. However, some allow guide and assistance dogs only.
Weight of pets. Pets under 8 kilograms can travel in the plane’s cabin, but you can take only 2 animals there.
Pets over 8 kilograms must be transported in a special section for animals in the luggage compartment. The maximum allowed weight depends on the airline. For example, when travelling with AirFrance, cats and dogs allowed in the hold can’t be heavier than 75 kilograms.
If a pet is heavier, it can be transported in cargo via authorised transporters. Some airlines can also require all exotic animals to travel in cargo, even if not heavy.
Exotic pets. Some small animals, like turtles, can be allowed to travel in the cabin, but their owner must obtain permission to do so in advance. In other cases, exotic animals are transported in a luggage section.
Pet carrier’s requirements depend on the airline company. Usually, a carrier must have a rigid frame with air access and a strong lock. The size of the carrier depends on the pet — it must be sufficient for the pet to stand upright and turn around. The bottom of the container must be waterproof and covered with absorbent material.
Fees. The owner must pay for the transportation of the pet even when it is travelling in a cabin, as pets are considered non-standard luggage. The fee depends on the size of the animal and the airline company. For example, SmartWings company charges €75 for a pet that weighs under 8 kilograms and €150 for pets over 8 kilograms.
The only animals allowed for free are guide and assistance dogs.
How to transport a pet without the owner
Transporting a pet without the owner is possible through two methods.
With another person. One method involves the pet travelling with another person. In this case, the owner must authorise this arrangement by providing written permission. Once the pet has been relocated, the owner is required to reunite with their pet within 5 days.
By international transport companies. Many companies specialise in pet transportation services, ensuring pets are accompanied throughout their journey. These companies typically assume responsibility for all preparatory steps required for transportation, such as completing necessary documentation and organising the various stages of the trip.
Some companies also record all the stages of transportation on camera and provide videos to the owner. The owner and the company sign the agreement, including the transportation conditions, such as a route, marking of the container, and feeding during the journey.
The cost of transporting the pet depends on the company, services offered and destination. For example, the cost of international transportation by plane with an American company, Airpets International, is $2,000+, or €1,850+.
Specific health requirements
The vaccination against rabies must be done at least 21 days before the trip. The vaccine must be authorised by the World Health Organisation and administered by an authorised veterinarian. It is only allowed to vaccinate animals older than 12 weeks.
Rabies antibody test. Passing an antibody test applies to dogs, cats, and ferrets coming from certain non-EU countries or territories. The countries that require the test are listed in Annex VIII to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/404.
The test must be performed on a sample taken by an authorised veterinarian at least 30 days after the animal’s primary rabies vaccination and within the valid period of that vaccination. Pets that pass the test and continue to receive rabies vaccinations regularly do not need to repeat the test.
Parasite Echinococcus multilocularis treatment applies to dogs only. It is required upon entering certain EU Member States, the United Kingdom or Norway.
The vet must use an approved product containing praziquantel or other substances effective against both mature and immature forms of Echinococcus multilocularis in the host. The treatment must be completed no more than 48 hours before and at least 24 hours before arriving in the EU.
All the documents proving the fulfilment of health requirements must be attached to the animal’s health certificate.
Clinical examination. Dogs, cats, and ferrets must have a clinical examination by an official veterinarian within 48 hours before their journey. It is done to confirm that the animals do not display any signs of illness.
What are an animal passport and a health certificate, and how can they be obtained for travel to the EU?
A pet passport is an official document issued for a pet to identify them. It has standard information about the animal: their nickname, breed, date of birth, the colour of fur, owner’s contacts, microchip number, information about vaccination against rabies, and health records. There also must be a photo of the pet.
Usually, passports are filled out in at least two languages: the official language of the country that issued the passport and English.
An authorised vet issues a passport. Thus, to obtain it, you need to go to the vet clinic and provide an application form and a photo of your pet. You can buy an empty passport in a shop and bring it with you so the vet can fill it out. It is important to make sure the vet sealed the document.
The passport is valid for life.
A health certificate is similar to a pet passport and is also issued by the vet. The document contains all the information about the pet’s health and proves the pet is not ill at the time of the trip. Having a health certificate is mandatory for entering Europe with a pet.
The health certificate remains valid for four months after the date of issuance. However, the document will no longer be considered valid if the vaccine against rabies loses its efficacy within this timeframe.
What to do upon arriving at an airport: a step-by-step guide
When travelling with a pet, you need to have more time in an airport than usual as there are some additional steps to undergo. Thus, arriving 4—5 hours before the flight is advised.
1. Point of inspection. When entering the airport, each person goes through a point of inspection. A pet carrier must be put through an X-ray machine alongside all the other luggage. The pet is not allowed in the carrier and must be removed. Putting a leash on a pet is recommended to make the process easier.
2. Veterinary inspection point. There the vet checks the pet’s and its documents. It’s better to find the veterinary point in advance to avoid wandering around the building.
3. Check-in counter. At the check-in counter, the airport worker weighs the carrier with a pet inside and gives the owner a ticket to pay. A person can’t get a boarding pass without paying a fee that varies depending on the animal and the airline company.
4. Fee payment. The pet owner pays the fee at the airport’s cashier. After they return to the check-in counter, provide a receipt and get a boarding pass out of turn.
5. Baggage counter. The owner takes the pet to the oversized baggage counter if the pet can’t be transported in the cabin.
6. Declaration. Most countries require dogs, cats and other pets to be declared at the exit and entrance. The animal owner passes through the red corridor and presents a customs declaration. The declaration can be filled out in advance.
Some airline companies allow owners to register their pets online.
9 tips for making your travel with pets safer and more comfortable
1. Familiarise your pet with travel. Gradually acclimate your pet to travel by taking it on short drives in their carrier, increasing their comfort with movement.
2. Secure a GPS tracker. Attach a GPS tracker to the carrier to monitor your pet’s location. It provides peace of mind and is invaluable if your pet goes missing.
3. Document your pet. Before parting with your pet, capture a photo or video of it in the carrier. This documentation can be crucial for identification purposes if the pet becomes lost.
4. Label the carrier. Ensure your contact information is prominently displayed on the carrier, especially if your pet travels in the cargo area, to facilitate easy identification and communication.
5. Maintain routine. Adhere to your pet’s regular feeding and walking schedule as much as possible to minimise its stress during travel.
6. Bring a piece of home. Include a familiar item, such as a favourite blanket or toy, in the carrier to comfort your pet with recognisable scents.
7. Prepare a pet first-aid kit. Assemble a first-aid kit tailored for your pet, including essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, a tick remover, and any necessary medications.
8. Find opportunities for rest. If possible, allow your pet time to stretch, walk, and hydrate, particularly during extended trips.
9. Visit your vet after travel. Schedule a check-up with your veterinarian after travelling, especially after international trips, to rule out any new health concerns, including parasites or diseases.
Key takeaways: how to travel with pets to Europe
- To travel to Europe with pets like dogs, cats, and ferrets, ensure they are microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have both a pet passport and a health certificate. They must travel in an appropriate carrier.
- For exotic pets, obtain advance permission and check specific country regulations, as additional requirements may apply.
- Pets can fly in the cabin or as checked luggage, depending on their size and weight.
- At the airport, undergo a veterinary inspection, provide your pet’s documents, register and weigh your pet at check-in, pay the transport fee, and then proceed to boarding.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible. General requirements are that the pet is microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, has a pet passport, a health certificate and a suitable carrier.
The maximum number of pets a person can travel with is five. Pet transportation is allowed only for non-commercial reasons.
Most European airlines allow people to travel with dogs, cats and ferrets. Other pets can be taken too, but their owner must consult specific requirements imposed by the airlines you’re using and countries you’re travelling to.
To travel with your dog, you must fulfil the general requirements. The pet must:
- be microchipped;
- have vaccination against rabies;
- have a pet passport and a health certificate;
- travel a suitable carrier.
It is a set of annexes included in the EU legislation that outlines the health and safety requirements for the non-commercial movement of pets within the European Union.
Yes, some pet insurance covers travel.
Yes, pet insurance is available in European countries. The cost depends on the type of animal and the services offered. On average, the insurance costs €50—200.
Yes, many airlines allow pets, such as dogs, cats and ferrets, in the cabin. However, there are restrictions in terms of size, especially for dogs.
The EU passport can be obtained only in one of the EU countries. To get it, the owner takes their pet to the authorised vet.
You can’t obtain an EU pet passport in the USA. To do so, you must come to one of the European Union countries and visit a certified vet there. However, you can get a pet passport in the US as well.
Austria, Italy, and France are among the most dog-friendly countries in Europe. They have many hotels and cafes that allow pets to stay there.
Yes, you can sail to Europe with a dog. It must be microchipped and vaccinated and have a pet passport and a health certificate.
