Moving your Pet to Spain

It is possible to take your pet with you to live in Spain. By following some simple procedures, your pet will soon be enjoying your new life in the sun with you. Prepare well in advance and talk to your vet who will have the most up to date information you need. Remember, you can only take a maximum of 2 pets with you to Spain

Do I need a Pet Passport?

You will need a Pet Passport to bring your pet into Spain. You need to ensure that your pet has had its rabies shots which can be given up to a year beforehand if necessary and a microchip. Your pet will not be allowed to enter Spain without a valid rabies inoculation certificate or health record showing proof of vaccination.

What is the best way to transport my pet to Spain?

If you want to travel by car to Spain with your pet make sure you know the laws and paper work required for each country you are travelling through.

If you're transporting a pet to Spain by ship or ferry, you should notify the ferry company. Some companies insist that pets are left in vehicles while others allow pets to be kept in cabins.

If you plan to transport your pet via plane, be sure to check if this is possible with the airline when booking your tickets. Usually, you will have to pay extra for this service. Your pet must be carried in an IATA approved pet carrier and must be big enough to allow your pet to turn about normally while standing, to stand and sit erect, and to lie in a natural position. They will be carried as excess baggage in the hold of the aircraft. If you are unable to travel at the same time as your pet, they can travel as cargo.

Does my pet have to go into Quarantine?

The health certificate must be issued no more than 15 days prior to bringing your pet into Spain. As long as your documentation is all correct and up to date, the authorities will let you take your pet straight home. For more information, check the European Pet Travel Scheme.

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