Taking your dog to France
- katherinephillips17
- Nov 20, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 28
Planning to take your dog to France? Whether it’s a holiday or a long-term move, traveling with your dog requires some careful preparation to ensure a smooth journey. Here’s what you need to know before heading to the French countryside or the streets of Paris with your furry companion.
1. Animal Health Certificate (AHC) OR European Pet Passport
Your dog will need an official document confirming vaccination against rabies to enter France, which must include:
Proof of rabies vaccination (given at least 21 days before travel).
A microchip for identification.
Animal and Owner details.
If you are a resident of the UK you will most likely require an Animal Health Certificate. European Passports are only available to residents of the EU. Animal Health Certificates are only valid for 1 trip to the EU (there and back) therefore you will need a new certificate each time you travel.
2. Visit to an Official Veterinarian (OV)
Before traveling, if you need an AHC, you will need to see an Official Veterinarian. This is a vet who has done a specific qualification in pet travel.
Ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations (especially rabies). For European Travel the rabies must be done at least 21 days before your OV appointment.
Check the microchip.
Provide an AHC within 10 days of departure (a requirement for travel within the EU).
Recommend any necessary medications or treatments (such as flea/tick prevention).
At SK Pet Travel Experts all of our veterinarians are OV's and therefore can certify export health certificates and animal health certificates.
3. Travel Arrangements
Air Travel: If flying, check airline policies for pet travel. Some airlines may allow small pets in the cabin, while larger dogs often need to travel in the hold. Book early to secure a spot for your dog. You may also require a fit to fly certificate, this is also airline dependent.
Car Travel: If driving to France, make sure your dog is comfortable and secure in the car. Frequent breaks and a safe travel crate or harness are essential for safety and comfort.
4. European Onward Travel
If using an Animal Health Certificate, once you enter the EU, free onward travel is allowed between EU countries for 4 months of onward travel.
5. Pet Insurance
While not mandatory, it’s a good idea to have travel insurance for your dog. Look for policies that cover emergency vet visits, accidents, and lost pets abroad. This can give you peace of mind if any issues arise while in France.
6. Local Laws and Etiquette
Once in France, keep in mind the local pet laws and customs:
Dogs are generally welcome in many public spaces, but they must be kept on a lead in most urban areas.
Many restaurants and cafes allow dogs, but it’s always polite to ask first.
Ensure your dog is clean and well-behaved to avoid issues with local regulations.
If you are travelling between countries in the EU, it is also important to check the list of 'banned' dog breeds as this varies country to country.
7. Arrival in France
After arriving, it’s time for your dog to get acclimatized. Find a local vet in France in case of emergencies and make sure your dog is comfortable in their new environment.
By preparing your dog for travel well in advance, you can make your trip to France an enjoyable and stress-free experience for both you and your furry friend. Safe travels!
Return to the UK
On return to the UK you will need to get a tapeworm treatment from a European vet and the details of this need to be submitted onto the Animal Health Certificate. The tapeworm treatment needs to be administered >24hrs but <120hrs prior to arrival into the UK (between 1-5 days).
If your trip to the EU is less than 5 days long you may be able to have your tapeworm treatment BEFORE travelling. Your official veterinarian should be able to advise you about whether this is possible, and the specific medication required.
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