Europe With Your Pet Is Entirely Possible — If You Do the Paperwork First
The number of European hotels, campsites, and rental properties marketing themselves as pet-friendly has grown substantially over the past decade. Travelling the continent with a dog or cat is genuinely achievable, but the administrative requirements — particularly for UK travellers post-Brexit — catch many owners off guard. Get the documentation right before you book the holiday, not after.
The UK to EU: What Has Changed Since Brexit
UK-issued pet passports are no longer accepted for entry into EU member states. UK pet owners now require an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each trip to the EU. This certificate must be issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV) — a vet specifically authorised by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) — within ten days of travel. It is not reusable for a return journey; you will need a new certificate for each trip. Your pet must be microchipped, and rabies vaccination must be current. Allow at least two to three weeks to locate an OV and arrange an appointment.
If you travel frequently to the EU with your pet, some owners find it cost-effective to speak to their vet about maintaining a consistent vaccination schedule to simplify the certification process over time.
Country-Specific Rules You Need to Know
France
France is one of the most pet-permissive countries in Europe. Dogs are commonly welcomed in restaurants, shops, and public transport. Entry requirements follow standard EU rules: microchip, rabies vaccination, and AHC for UK travellers. Tapeworm treatment is not required for dogs entering France (unlike returning to the UK — see below).
Spain
Spain requires the standard EU documentation. Dogs must be on a lead in most public spaces; some beaches permit dogs but typically outside peak hours or in designated areas. Rules vary significantly by region and municipality — check local rules for your specific destination.
Germany
Germany requires that dogs be registered and in some Lander (states) a dog tax applies to residents. For tourists this is less likely to be enforced, but be aware some accommodation providers will charge a pet supplement. German public transport generally permits dogs with a muzzle and lead; cats must be in carriers.
Italy
Italy is broadly pet-friendly, though cultural attitudes vary by region. Beaches with pet access exist but are not universal. Rail travel with pets is permitted; dogs above a certain size require a ticket of their own on Trenitalia services.
Returning to the UK: The Tapeworm Requirement
Dogs (not cats) returning to the UK from most EU countries must be treated for tapeworm by a vet between one and five days before re-entry. This is a legal requirement, and the treatment must be recorded in the AHC or a separate certificate. Failure to comply can result in your dog being placed in quarantine at your expense. Book the tapeworm treatment appointment before you travel so timing is not left to chance at the end of your holiday.
Finding Genuinely Pet-Friendly Accommodation
The term pet-friendly is used loosely. Some properties charge substantial supplements, restrict pets to outdoor areas, or limit the size of animals permitted. When booking, confirm in writing:
- Maximum weight or size of pet allowed.
- Whether the pet can be left unattended in the room or property.
- Any additional cleaning fees or deposits.
- Access to enclosed or safe outdoor space.
- Proximity to veterinary services at the destination.
Specialist booking platforms focused on pet-friendly travel tend to provide more reliable filters than general accommodation sites.
Health Preparation Before You Travel
Speak to your vet at least six to eight weeks before travelling to Europe. Depending on your destination, your pet may need protection against parasites not prevalent in the UK — including ticks carrying Lyme disease or other pathogens, sandfly-transmitted leishmaniasis in southern Europe, and heartworm in some regions. Your vet can advise on appropriate preventative treatments for the specific countries you are visiting. Keep a copy of vaccination records and the AHC with you at all times during travel.
Quick Reference Checklist for EU Travel from the UK
- Microchip implanted and registered.
- Rabies vaccination current (check timing requirements — some destinations require vaccination more than 21 days before arrival).
- AHC issued by an OV within ten days of outbound travel.
- Tapeworm treatment booked for one to five days before return to UK (dogs only).
- Pet-specific travel insurance in place.
- Vet contact at destination identified in advance.
- Accommodation pet policy confirmed in writing.