Taking Your Dog on Holiday to the EU from the UK

Bringing your furry friend on holiday to the EU from the UK is entirely possible, but it requires careful planning and adherence to various regulations. To ensure a smooth journey, you must meet specific requirements, including microchipping, vaccinations, documentation, and health certificates. Additionally, different EU countries may have varying rules regarding pet travel, so checking destination-specific regulations is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know when taking your dog from the UK to the EU, from the necessary paperwork to keeping your dog comfortable during the trip.

Microchipping: The First Step in Pet Travel

Before your dog can travel to the EU, they must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip. This microchip serves as a permanent form of identification and must be implanted before any vaccinations. If your dog has an older microchip that does not meet ISO standards, you may need to carry a compatible scanner. Always ensure your pet’s microchip details are up to date in a recognised database, as this will be checked at border controls.

Vaccinations: Essential for Entry

One of the most crucial requirements for travelling with your dog to the EU is ensuring they have the necessary vaccinations, particularly against rabies. The rabies vaccine must be administered after microchipping and at least 21 days before travel. If your dog’s rabies vaccine is not up to date, you will need to restart the vaccination process, which could delay your trip. Some EU countries may also require additional vaccines, such as for tapeworms or leptospirosis, so check the specific entry rules of your destination.

Do You Need a Dog Passport?

Since Brexit, the UK-issued pet passport is no longer valid for travel to the EU. Instead, you will need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued by an official veterinarian. The AHC must be obtained no more than 10 days before travel and is valid for four months for onward travel within the EU. It includes details of your dog’s microchip number, rabies vaccination, and owner information. Each time you travel to the EU with your pet, you will need a new AHC.

Necessary Documentation for Travel

When taking your dog to the EU, you must carry specific documents to meet entry requirements. These include:

• Animal Health Certificate (AHC) – Issued by a veterinarian and valid for entry into the EU for up to four months.
• Microchip details – Ensure your pet’s microchip number matches what is recorded in the AHC.
• Rabies vaccination record – Proof that your dog has been vaccinated at least 21 days before travel.
• Tapeworm treatment (if required) – Certain EU countries, such as Ireland, Finland, Norway, and Malta, require dogs to be treated for tapeworms 24–120 hours before arrival.

Having these documents readily available will help avoid any delays or issues at border crossings.

Checking Destination Rules for Different Vaccines

Each EU country may have slightly different regulations regarding pet travel, so researching your destination’s requirements is essential. Some countries may require additional vaccinations or health checks, while others might have quarantine rules for specific breeds. For example, France and Spain may have restrictions on certain dog breeds deemed dangerous. Additionally, some regions might have stricter regulations regarding tick and flea treatments. Always check the latest rules on the government’s pet travel page or contact your destination’s embassy for the most up-to-date information.

Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Not all hotels, holiday rentals, or campsites accept pets, so it’s crucial to book dog-friendly accommodations in advance. Many booking platforms allow you to filter search results to find places that welcome pets. Consider the following when choosing accommodations:

• Pet policies and fees – Some hotels charge extra for pets or have restrictions on size and breed.
• Outdoor space – A garden or nearby park can be beneficial for exercise and bathroom breaks.
• Nearby pet-friendly attractions – Look for restaurants, beaches, or parks that allow dogs.

Bringing a familiar blanket, toy, or bed can help your dog feel more comfortable in a new environment.

Keeping Your Dog Entertained During the Journey

Travelling can be stressful for dogs, so planning for their comfort is essential. Whether you are travelling by car, ferry, or plane, ensure your pet has a safe and secure travel crate or harness. For long car journeys, schedule regular breaks to allow your dog to stretch their legs, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Bring their favourite toys and treats to keep them engaged. If travelling by ferry, check whether your dog can stay with you or must remain in a designated pet area. For flights, check airline policies on pet travel, as some require dogs to be transported in the cargo hold.

How Long Can You Take Your Dog for?

There are no strict time limits on how long you can take your dog to the EU, as long as their vaccinations remain valid. However, the Animal Health Certificate is only valid for four months for onward travel within the EU. If you plan to stay longer, you may need to obtain further vaccinations or meet local pet residency requirements. If you frequently travel with your pet, consider obtaining an EU-issued pet passport from a vet in an EU country, as this can make future trips easier.

Returning to the UK with Your Dog

Before bringing your dog back to the UK, you must meet re-entry requirements. These include:

• Microchip and rabies vaccination – Your dog’s microchip and rabies vaccine must still be valid.
• Tapeworm treatment (if applicable) – If returning from Ireland, Malta, Norway, or Finland, your dog must be treated for tapeworm by a vet 24–120 hours before arrival.
• Approved travel routes – You must return via an approved pet travel route, where officials will check your pet’s documents.

Failing to meet these requirements could result in quarantine or denied entry, so ensure everything is in order before returning.

Final Tips for a Stress-Free Trip

To make your journey with your dog as smooth as possible, follow these final tips:

• Plan well in advance – Start the process early to avoid last-minute issues with vaccinations or paperwork.
• Keep your dog comfortable – Ensure they have enough water, food, and rest breaks during travel.
• Check weather conditions – Some EU countries have hot climates that may not be ideal for certain breeds.
• Consider pet insurance – Having travel insurance that covers your dog can be helpful in case of emergencies.

By carefully preparing for your trip, you and your dog can enjoy a fantastic holiday together in the EU. Whether you’re exploring new cities, hiking scenic trails, or relaxing on a dog-friendly beach, your pet can be a part of the adventure.