Traveling with a pet, especially for dog holidays to France from Great Britain, is an increasingly popular trend among pet owners. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a smooth trip with your four-legged friend.
This guide covers everything you need to know about taking your dog on holiday to France, ensuring compliance with French and European Union (EU) regulations, and enjoying a stress-free vacation. The same applies equally for dogs cats and ferrets.
Preparing for Holidays to France With Your Dog.
Taking your dog on holidays can be incredibly rewarding, but they require careful planning, especially when traveling to France. One of the primary considerations is ensuring your pet has all the necessary travel documents, such as an EU animal health certificate or pet passport, depending on the country of origin.
France is an EU country, so if you’re traveling from another EU member state, the process can be fairly simple. However, traveling from countries outside the EU, like the UK after Brexit, involves more preparation. Make sure to check the EU animal health certificate and pet passport France requirements well in advance of your travel date.
Key Documents for Your Pet
The key documents you’ll need to take your pet to France include:
Pet Passport (PP): If traveling from within the European Union or Northern Ireland, your dog will need an EU PP. This document, issued by an official veterinarian, confirms that your pet meets the EU’s health standards.
Animal Health Certificate: For UK travelers, an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is required to enter France. This certificate must be obtained within 10 days before travel and signed by an official veterinarian. The certificate remains valid for four months of travel, or until the dog’s rabies vaccination expires, so ensure the vaccination is valid for the entire duration of the trip.
Rabies Vaccination: Your dog must have up-to-date rabies vaccinations. The rabies vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before travel, and the dog’s rabies vaccination expires after a year, so ensure it’s valid. Previous vaccination that are expired dont count.
Tapeworm Treatment: You need your pet to have tapeworm pills before entering or re-entering the UK.
Make sure your pet is pet microchipped and that the pet’s microchip is linked to their travel documents. Without this, the travel documents are invalid.
Obtaining a Pet Passport
If your pet lives within the EU, to obtain a PP, you will need to visit an authorized veterinarian who is permitted to issue pet passports. The veterinarian will examine your pet to ensure it is healthy enough for travel and verify that its vaccinations are up-to-date. You will need to provide proof of your pet’s identity, vaccination records, and a valid rabies vaccination certificate. The veterinarian will then issue a PP, which will include the microchip or tattoo number, vaccination records, and a description of your pet.
The cost of a pet passport can vary depending on the veterinarian and the country you are in, but it is typically around €20-€100. The PP is valid for life as long as your pet’s rabies vaccination is in date.
Rabies Vaccination Requirements
France requires all dogs entering from other countries to have a valid rabies vaccination. The primary vaccination must be given at least 21 days before travel. You will need to provide written evidence of your dog’s anti-rabies vaccination status. If you’re traveling from a non-EU country, the rules are stricter, and some pets may need a blood sample to confirm rabies immunity.
How to Obtain an Animal Health Certificate
If you’re traveling from the UK, you will need to get an Animal Health Certificate from a licensed vet. Here’s how to obtain it:
Schedule a vet appointment within 10 days of your travel date.
Provide your vet with proof of rabies vaccination.
The vet will issue the certificate, which will remain valid for four months for travel within the EU.
It’s crucial to allow enough time before your trip to secure the Animal Health Certificate, as this document is essential for entering France with your dog.
Animal Health Certificate Cost & Validity
The cost of an Animal Health Certificate can vary depending on the veterinarian and the country you are in, but it is typically around £100-£250. It is worth comparing this to the cost of kennels in the UK – it might be similar, so take your dog on holiday!
The animal health certificate is valid for 10 days from the date it is issued, and it can be used for travel between EU countries for up to four months from the date your pet enters the EU.
It’s worth noting that if you need to microchip your dog or get vaccinations such as a booster vaccination done in order to meet the requirements for animal health certificates, this will incur additional costs.
Traveling with Pets: EU and Non-EU Countries
Remember, when traveling to France, the requirements differ based on whether you’re coming from an EU country (EU or northern ireland) or from outside the EU, like the UK. Within the European Union and EU member states, a valid EU Pet Passport issued meets the legal requirement. However, travellers from the UK will need an Animal Health Certificate. Both documents confirm the dog’s rabies and tapeworm medication status, as well as general health.
Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork, as different rules may apply depending on the EU country or non-EU country you’re traveling from.
Restrictions on Certain Breeds and Animals
While most dogs can travel freely, some restrictions apply to attack dogs and dangerous breeds in France. It’s important to check if your dog’s breed is permitted to enter the country. The French authorities have strict rules regarding certain breeds, especially dangerous dogs.
Additionally, the regulations apply not only to dogs but also to a dog cat or ferret, which are commonly traveling pets. If you’re traveling with other animals, like reptiles or birds, different regulations may apply.
Transportation Options: Eurotunnel, Ferries, and Flights
For dogs going on holiday (try a dog holiday with hot tub) France is easily accessible by car, ferry, or train, making it a pet-friendly destination. Here are your main transportation options:
Eurotunnel: You can take your dog on the Eurotunnel, making it one of the most convenient options. Some airlines allow pets (although it is VERY expensive), but the Eurotunnel is often preferred for its simplicity.
Ferry Company: Many ferry operators offer pet-friendly services, allowing you to keep your dog in your vehicle or in designated areas during the trip.
Flights: Some airlines offer options for pet travel, but be sure to check with the airline in advance regarding their policies. This can be very expensive.
When using any form of transportation, ensure that your pet dog is comfortable and safe. Always bring food, water, and your dog’s favorite toys for comfort.
Veterinary Inspections and Health Checks
Once you arrive in France, your pet may undergo a veterinary inspection at the border. Ensure all health documentation, including the Animal Health Certificate or PP, is in order.
The cost of an Animal Health Certificate varies, but UK vet charges typically range from £100 to £250 depending on the vet and the specific requirements of your trip. It’s advisable to check the cost of the health check and ensure that your dog is in good health before traveling.
– Microchip Requirements
In order to obtain an Animal Health Certificate, your pet must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant microchip (15-digit) which connects with your pet’s information. The microchip must be implanted before the animal health certificate is issued, and the microchip number must be included on the certificate.
It’s essential to ensure that the microchip is ISO-compliant, as this is a requirement for travel to EU countries. If the microchip is not ISO-compliant, you may need to have it re-microchipped before you can obtain an animal health certificate.
– Tapeworm Treatment
Whether using a PP or Animal Health Certificate when travelling from France to Great Britain, you need to go to a local veterinary practice in France to officially have the Tapeworm meds given to your dog, and the paperwork stamped.
Where to Stay with Your Dog in France
France is known for its dog-friendly culture, with many accommodations welcoming pets. Some of the best places to holiday with your dog include:
Dog friendly holiday villas: These countryside cottages offer plenty of space for dogs to roam and run free. This is the best option because you wont be worrying about your pooch bothering other people.
Pet-friendly Hotels: Many hotels in France cater to dog owners, offering amenities like dog beds and treats. Can be stressful.
Campsites: Camping is another popular option for pet holidays, with many campsites allowing pets. Fun, but you need to keep a constant vigilance.
Research dog-friendly accommodations before your trip to ensure a comfortable stay for you and your dog.
Traveling with Multiple Pets
If you’re traveling with up to five pets, they can all go on one Animal Health Certificate. More than five pets eg for a sporting event means different EU regulation needs different rules.
Importing dogs or other pets, or any live animals – pets (dogs cats and certainly endangered species) and international trade has other EU rules and requires different paperwork not covered here.
Northern Ireland and EU Regulations
Traveling from Northern Ireland follows the same rules as other countries in the EU for dogs cats and ferrets, meaning a PP is sufficient for entry into France.
Additional Considerations
– Travel Insurance for Dogs
When traveling with your dog, it’s essential to consider obtaining travel insurance that covers your dog. This can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case your dog becomes ill or injured during travel.
You should look for a travel insurance policy that specifically covers your dog cat or ferret and includes coverage for veterinary expenses, as well as other benefits such as trip cancellation and delay. Some pet insurance policies may also include travel insurance as an optional extra, so it’s worth checking with your insurer to see what options are available.
It’s also important to check the policy’s terms and conditions to ensure that it covers your dog’s specific needs and requirements. For example, some policies may not cover dogs with pre-existing medical conditions, so it’s essential to read the fine print before purchasing a policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my dog on holiday to France from the UK?
Yes, you can take your dog to France from the UK as long as you meet the required regulations, including obtaining an Animal Health Certificate.
How much does it cost to get an EU pet passport in Europe?
A pet passport (for EU residents) typically costs between £20 and £100, depending on the veterinarian and the services included.
Does my dog need tapeworm treatment to enter the UK from France?
Yes, dogs cats and ferrets as well as assistance dogs re-entering the UK from France must receive tapeworm medication administered at a veterinary practice in France, between 1 day before and 5 days before travel to the UK.
Can I travel to France with my dog on the Eurotunnel?
Yes, the Eurotunnel is one of the most popular options for traveling with dogs from the UK to France. They charge more for pets traveling – small dog or large!
How long does it take to get an animal health certificate in the UK?
It can take a few hours to a week, so plan ahead and book a vet appointment well before your travel date.
Can a UK vet issue an EU pet passport?
No, UK vets cannot issue EU pet passports. A UK-resident pet will need a UK Animal Health Certificate instead.
Where is the best place to holiday with a dog?
Here is the best dog friendly family holiday villa in France <<
Other Questions Answered Elsewhere on this website
Where do people leave their pets when they go on holiday?
Do dogs need a holiday?
How much do vets charge for an animal health certificate cost?
Conclusion
Traveling with your pet to France can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires thorough planning. From ensuring your pet’s rabies vaccination is up-to-date to securing an animal health certificate, there are many steps involved. Following the rules for pet travel will allow you and your four-legged friend to enjoy your holiday without any unexpected surprises. Remember to check all regulations and legal requirements based on whether you’re traveling from an EU country, Northern Ireland, or a non-EU country. Happy travels!
To learn more abour our dog friendly family holiday villa in France click here <
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Owner of the stunning gite in Dordogne, south-west France, Duncan designed and project-managed all of the renovations here and was hands-on with some of the building, from the Banquet Hall and Games Room to the private pool.
Duncan offers high-end luxury family holidays here at this stunning farmhouse villa, for families to have fun, relax and create happy memories together.
We also specialise in helping families with autistic children to have great family holidays together in the peace and tranquility of the rural French countryside.
