Traveling with your dog can be a rewarding experience, but it requires proper planning and preparation. If you’re in the UK and want to take your dog to France and Switzerland, there are specific regulations and paperwork that need to be completed. With the UK no longer part of the EU, the process has slightly changed. This blog will walk you through the steps you need to follow to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your furry friend.
Step 1: Microchip Your Dog
Before you think about booking your travel, make sure your dog is microchipped. This is essential for both identification and safety. A microchip is a small device inserted under your dog’s skin, containing your contact information.
Ensure it meets international standards: The microchip must be ISO 11784/11785 compliant so that it can be read in both France and Switzerland.
Register your details: Keep your contact information updated with the microchip provider, as this will be crucial if your dog gets lost during travel.
Step 2: Obtain a Pet Passport or Health Certificate
As the UK is no longer part of the EU, pet travel rules have changed. You will now need a UK-issued Animal Health Certificate (AHC) instead of a pet passport to travel with your dog to France or Switzerland.
What You Need:
Visit an approved vet: You must visit an official vet approved by the UK government to issue the health certificate.
Rabies vaccination: Your dog must be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before travel, and it must be valid at the time of your trip. (this lasts 3 Years)
Health certificate details: The vet will issue an Animal Health Certificate that confirms your dog’s rabies vaccination, microchip number, and general health status. This certificate is valid for 10 days from the date of issue, allowing your dog to travel to the EU (including France) and Switzerland date of entry.
Additional Requirements:
Tapeworm treatment: While Switzerland doesn’t require tapeworm treatment, France does. Your dog must receive this treatment 24 to 120 hours (1 to 5 days) before entering France. This treatment must be recorded in the health certificate by the vet.
Step 3: Understand Travel Requirements for France and Switzerland
Both France and Switzerland have specific rules for importing pets, and understanding them will ensure a smooth journey.
Traveling to France:
Animal Health Certificate: Since the UK is no longer part of the EU, a UK-issued Animal Health Certificate is required to travel to France, not a pet passport.
Rabies Vaccination: Your dog must have a valid rabies vaccination.
No quarantine: As long as all conditions are met (valid rabies vaccination and health certificate), your dog will not need to quarantine upon arrival.
Traveling to Switzerland:
Switzerland follows similar rules: Though not part of the EU, Switzerland adheres to similar pet travel regulations.
Health certificate and rabies vaccination: Your dog will need an up-to-date health certificate and rabies vaccination.
No quarantine: Dogs meeting these requirements do not need to be quarantined when entering Switzerland.
Step 4: Choose the Right Mode of Transport
The way you travel will affect how you and your dog journey to France and Switzerland. Here are some options:
1. Ferry (Dover to Calais, for example):
Many ferries between the UK and France are pet-friendly, allowing dogs to travel with you.
Pets are typically required to stay in the car, in a designated pet area, or in a pet-friendly cabin.
Make sure to book a pet-friendly ferry in advance, as there may be additional charges for bringing your dog.
2. Eurostar Train:
Eurostar allows pets on trains from the UK to France, but only small dogs (up to 10kg) can travel in the cabin in an approved carrier.
Larger dogs must travel as cargo.
It's important to book a pet ticket in advance, as Eurostar has limited space for pets.
3. Euro Train:
The train between the UK and France is pet-friendly, allowing dogs to travel with you in your car.
Pets are typically required to stay in the car as it is 30 mins crossing, but before hand their are designated pet area's.
This is a simple way if you feel your dog would be better staying in the car for a shorter time than coming on the Ferry with you or staying in the Car for the crossing.
The Euro Train is normally more expensive than the Ferry.
Step 5: Prepare for Arrival in France and Switzerland
Once you’ve arrived in France or Switzerland, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Familiar items: Pack your dog’s favourite blanket, food, and toys to help them adjust to the new environment.
Leash laws: Both France and Switzerland have leash laws, so be sure to keep your dog on a leash in public areas, so we recommend Long lines for when your dog needs to have a good run about.
Pet-friendly accommodation: Many accommodations in both countries are dog-friendly, but it’s always best to confirm in advance.
Hydration and rest: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water and opportunities to rest, especially after long travel days.
Step 6: Returning to the UK
When you're ready to return to the UK, make sure to follow the return requirements for re-entry:
Health certificate: You will need a new health certificate to return to the UK, as the one issued for your initial journey is only valid for a limited time (10 days).
Rabies vaccination: The rabies vaccine must still be valid when you return to the UK, so ensure it’s up-to-date before your return journey.
Tapeworm treatment: If you traveled through France, your dog will need a tapeworm treatment administered by a vet, between 24 and 120 hours before re-entering the UK. This treatment will be recorded in the health certificate.
Additional Tips for Traveling with Dogs:
Stay calm: Your dog can sense your stress, so staying calm will help them feel more relaxed during the trip.
Exercise before travel: Take your dog on a long walk or play session before departure to tire them out.
Regular breaks: If you’re driving, stop regularly for bathroom breaks, water, and exercise.
Know the local vets: Have the contact details of a local vet in case of an emergency at your destination.
Conclusion
Traveling with your dog from the UK to France and Switzerland is entirely doable, as long as you follow the necessary steps. While the UK’s exit from the EU has changed some travel rules, obtaining an Animal Health Certificate, ensuring vaccinations are up to date, and selecting the right travel options will make the journey a smooth one for both you and your dog. Happy travels!
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