Travel With Dog to Spain: An Ultimate Guidelines and Helpful Tips

travel with dog to spain

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If you plan to travel with dog to Spain, prepare for it. You have to do many things, from vaccinations and paperwork to planning your trip and finding places that accept your dog.

To visit the country with your dog or cat, you must comply with the pet passport regulations. It is also essential that your dog or cat can cross EU borders without having problems with public health or administration.

This guide gives you all the information about traveling with dogs to Spain. We will show you how to obtain the European Pet Travel Scheme (EPTS).

Ready to go?

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Things to Know Before Traveling

If you’re a pet owner looking to take your dog or cat on the road with you, there are some things you’ll need to know.

You need to ensure that they have the correct rabies vaccinations and paperwork before they travel. It is imperative if you are taking your pet outside of the European Union.

The requirements for traveling with a pet vary depending on where you are going, so check the specific requirements for your country of choice before looking into your pet’s veterinary needs.

But, taking your dog, cat, or ferret to a country outside the EU (a ‘third country’), you must have:

  • a pet’s microchip
  • rabies vaccination
  • health certificates
  • EU pet passport or the third country veterinary certificate (official)

First of all, your pet will need a health certificate and an EU Pet Passport. Then, your pet will need to be vaccinated against rabies before traveling three months later. Finally, thebe a plant health inspection service is required.

You’ll need to find an accredited veterinarian who can administer the vaccination. A vet can issue your pet’s passport and health certificate.

Certain countries require pets to be at least 15 weeks old before receiving the initial vaccination. When traveling by air, check with your airline about specific requirements for taking dogs and cats with you on public transport.

Keep in mind that not all countries are required to accept animals from every other European Union country without a quarantine period. If you’re unsure about your destination’s requirements, it may be worth it to consult a veterinarian before leaving for your trip.

But if so, make sure to have them secured in a crate or harness so that they don’t cause any trouble on the plane.

How about traveling to Spain?

Entry Requirements for Dogs In Spain

If you’re looking to take your dog or cat with you on a trip to Spain, here are the entry requirements:

EU Pet Passport

First, your dog or cat needs a pet passport, which will state that they have had a successful rabies vaccination. The animal health certificate must be issued by an accredited veterinarian and is only valid 21 days after the date of the initial vaccination.

If the animal is too young to be vaccinated against rabies, he cannot enter Spain.

how can i travel with my dog

When traveling within a country in the EU, you do not need any additional documentation for your dog except for his pet passport.

Animal Health Certificates

The health certificate must be issued by an accredited veterinarian and is only valid 21 days after the date of the initial vaccination.

Additional Requirements for Pets from Non-EU Country

If you are entering Spain from a non-EU country, there are some additional requirements. Your animal must be vaccinated against rabies and then wait at least 30 days before entering Spain (although it may be longer depending on what country you’re coming from).

You’ll need a health certificate signed by an accredited veterinarian and issued no more than 10 days before arrival in Spain.

Also, you’ll need to get an official health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian in your home country no more than 10 days before the journey starts. This will—among other things—prove that the dog in question has been vaccinated against rabies.

Check Your Country Category

International travel for pets is subject to various regulations and rules, which may differ depending on which country they came from.

In Spain, nations are classified in the following categories. The classification is based on the absence or presence of rabies in a specific country.

Make travel plans according to the category you may belong to.

EU Countries

Dogs or cats traveling to Spain from any country from EU need an updated pet passport. Get the passport from an authorized vet based in EU countries.

The passport should have the following details:

  • pet description
  • rabies vaccination certificate
  • contact information of pet owners

Third Countries

The countries under this category are non-EU European countries and those with controlled or no rabies cases. Some of these countries are Argentina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, French Polynesia, Monaco, etc.

Non-Listed Countries

All other countries not under the first two categories fall in this classification. There is a high rabies incidence in these countries.

Now, let’s get in-depth with the rabies vaccination and health certificate of your dog.

Entry Requirements for Dogs In Spain

If you’re looking to take your dog or cat with you on a trip to Spain, here are the entry requirements:

EU Pet Passport

First, your dog or cat needs a pet passport, stating that they have had a successful rabies vaccination. The animal health certificate must be issued by an accredited veterinarian and is only valid 21 days after the date of the initial vaccination.

If the animal is too young to be vaccinated against rabies, he cannot enter Spain.

When traveling within a country in the EU, you do not need additional documentation for your dog except for his pet passport.

Animal Health Certificates

The health certificate must be issued by an accredited veterinarian and is only valid 21 days after the date of the initial vaccination.

Additional Requirements for Pets from Non-EU Country

If you are entering Spain from a non-EU country, there are some additional requirements. First, your animal must be vaccinated against rabies and then wait at least 30 days before entering Spain (although it may be longer depending on what country you’re coming from).

You’ll need a health certificate signed by an accredited veterinarian and issued no more than 10 days before arrival in Spain.

dog health certificate for travel

Also, you’ll need to get an official health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian in your home country no more than 10 days before the journey starts. This will—among other things—prove that the dog in question has been vaccinated against rabies.

Check Your Country Category

International travel for pets is subject to various regulations and rules, depending on which country they came.

In Spain, nations are classified in the following categories. The classification is based on the absence or presence of rabies in a specific country.

Make travel plans according to the category you may belong to.

EU Countries

Dogs or cats traveling to Spain from any country in the EU need an updated pet passport. Get the passport from an authorized vet based in EU countries.

The passport should have the following details:

  • pet description
  • rabies vaccination certificate
  • contact information of pet owners

Third Countries

The countries under this category are non-EU European countries and those with controlled or no rabies cases. These countries are Argentina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, French Polynesia, Monaco, etc.

Non-Listed Countries

All other countries not under the first two categories fall in this classification. There is a high rabies incidence in these countries.

Now, let’s get in-depth with your dog’s rabies vaccination and health certificate.

Rabies Vaccination and Health Certificates

You love your pet, and we value your pet, too!

We do everything we can to protect your pet from harm, and one of the best ways to do that is to help you make sure they’re vaccinated against rabies. It’s an integral part of keeping your dog safe in the pet carrier, and it’s required if you plan on taking them into the EU.

What Is a Rabies Vaccination?

Rabies is a dangerous, contagious, and often fatal disease affecting animals and humans. It’s transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals, so preventing its spread is incredibly important. Rabies vaccines are the best way to do this.

The rabies vaccine is a shot that protects pets from contracting the rabies virus. It’s administered by an accredited or official veterinarian.

Do I Need One for My Pet?

Yes! If your pet is entering the EU from another country, you must have proof of valid rabies vaccination. It applies even if you’re only traveling with your pet through a country from the EU on public transport (e.g., train or bus).

Your pet also needs a valid Pet Passport to enter the EU without being quarantined. To get one, you’ll need to go to an accredited veterinarian and get an initial rabies vaccination and a pet microchip for your pet.

After that, the veterinarian will fill out your pet’s passport with information about the animal and its new microchip number. The passport will prove that the animal has been vaccinated and microchipped.

How long does it take to get the passport after vaccinating my dog or cat?

Your pet’s first rabies vaccine must be administered at least 21 days before it arrives in any European Union country.

Your Pet’s Health Certificate

This health certificate is issued to certify that your pet has received a rabies vaccination. A licensed veterinarian should administer the vaccine. If you take your dogs or cats on public transport, the initial vaccination must be given at least 21 days before travel.

Consider this official notice of your dog’s rabies vaccination status. This health certificate could be required if you take your pet abroad or ship it to another country from the EU.

Pet owners should contact their local authorities regarding requirements for animals entering from outside of the EU. Your accredited veterinarian will complete this health certificate as part of issuing a pet passport for your animal.

The certificate will allow your animal to travel freely between EU countries, excluding the United Kingdom, without being quarantined.

The certificate must be endorsed by an accredited veterinarian, who will also issue the Pet Passport for dogs and cats. This document will allow you to take the animal abroad for up to four months from the date of endorsement.

To obtain a health certificate, please visit an accredited veterinarian in your area.

Banned of Specific Dog Breeds

While Spain does not have bans on specific breeds, all breeds of dogs are welcome to get in. However, the country sets restrictions on aggressive and assertive breeds.

Spanish law gives specific regulations about potentially dangerous breeds. Among the banned species are the following:

  • Dogo Argentino
  • Staffordshire Terrier
  • Tosa Inu
  • Fila Brasileiro
  • Pit Bull Terrier
  • Rottweiler
  • Akita Inu

Some physical characteristics of dogs may also be considered a threat. It makes them potentially dangerous. Take note of the following, which may characterize harm to others:

  • Dogs that are specifically trained for an attack.
  • Canines with wide mouths and strong jaws
  • Pups with short necks and bulky heads.
  • Those weigh over 20 kilograms with solid musculature.
  • Dogs with dangerous diseases.

So, if you have travel plans, it is critical to check the government’s list of restricted dog breeds first.

Meanwhile, the list of dangerous dog breeds is terminated as stipulated in the new Animal Protection Law. Under this law, the potential danger that a dog may manifest will be based on his behavior.

Pets need to undergo an individualized sociability study. Pet owners who fail the said test need to obtain a license to keep their furry pal. Also, they have to follow the regulations.

Dogs on Spanish Beaches

Are you thinking about taking your favorite canine friend on a Spanish beach holiday? You might want to check out this list of requirements for having your dog with you.

You need to know that dogs aren’t generally allowed on the beaches in Spain, but there are a couple of exceptions. For example, in the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura allows dogs on some beaches if they are leashed and cleaned up after, but Lanzarote doesn’t let them on any beaches. And most of the resorts along the Costa del Sol let dogs on the beach before 8 am or after 8 pm.

If you have a dog coming from outside of the EU (or from an EU country that isn’t rabies-free), you’ll need to ensure that he has a health certificate from an accredited veterinarian and a valid pet passport.

You’ll have to ensure that it gets a rabies vaccine at least 21 days before traveling; this is called the initial or primary vaccination.

When it comes time to pack your pup up and head out on vacation, there are several options available for getting from A to B. Airplanes will require an exceptional air travel certificate from your vet, so be sure to get one issued before the date of travel. Keep in mind that puppies under 12 weeks old aren’t allowed on flights, as well as dogs with snub noses (i.e., pugs or bulldogs)

The whole process is pretty straightforward for most animals—it’s pretty similar to what you’d do when traveling with them in the USA. Just check with your airline ahead of time to see what they require from you.

Once you’re in Spain, keep your dog on a leash during their entire stay unless they are on a beach or other public space designated as “dog-friendly.” If you want to take your dog on public transport, he must be muzzled and wear a leash. In addition, dogs must be in their pet carriers when necessary.

Ready to get out with your furry friend now?

What Else Is Needed When Taking Dogs to Spain?

Spain is a country where dog lovers can go to get away from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives. Most people in Spain are very friendly to tourists and visitors, and they are happy to see people who come to visit them.

Whether you’re traveling with your dog for a short visit or moving to Spain, there are some things you should keep in mind.

If you want to bring your dog with you on vacation, you need to know what else you need to know about taking dogs to Spain.

  • Ensure that all of your pet’s information is up-to-date before you leave.
  • You need to know that specific rules apply to bringing pets on vacations.
  • After all of that is set, start thinking about how you want to reach Spain. Again, if you’re driving or taking public transportation (train or plane), there are no additional requirements beyond what’s already been mentioned.
  • There might be specific rules for your particular airline or train. So be sure you check before booking!
  • Traveling to Spain is a great way to escape the winter, but it can be tough to leave your furry friend behind. Luckily, you can bring him along for the ride with a bit of preparation—so long as you have the correct paperwork.

Partner With Pet Travel Experts

Traveling with pets can be a stressful experience, especially if you’re moving to another country. You need to know that your cat or dog will be safe and comfortable for the journey, and you want to adjust to their new home quickly.

best dog travel

Many pet owners discover that traveling with their pets is much easier when they partner with a pet travel expert to guide them through the process. A specialized travel agent can provide everything you need, including a health certificate, pet passports, and rabies vaccination.

The process begins with a visit to an accredited veterinarian. Your vet will verify that your dog or cat is healthy enough to travel and issue the required documentation.

At this point, your pet will receive an initial vaccination if they have not already been vaccinated against rabies. This visit should take place at least 30 days before your trip, but no more than 12 months prior.

If your departure date is more than 30 days away, a second visit is required for the final vaccination against rabies. At this time, your veterinarian will also issue an EU health certificate that confirms that your pet is healthy enough for international travel.

If all goes well, this is all you need to get on public transport such as planes and trains with your animal without any additional fees or requirements.

FAQs

Consider these questions when traveling with your pet in Spain:

Can I Travel With Dog to Spain?

Yes! You can travel to Spain with your dog.

You’ll need a few things, though:

  • Rabies vaccination or booster vaccination
  • Health certificate
  • Pet passports

To get all that, you can go to an accredited veterinarian. They will give your animal the rabies vaccine and examine it to ensure everything is healthy. Then they will issue an EU health certificate and a pet passport.

How Long Does a Dog Have to Be In Quarantine for Spain?

As long as your dog or cat has a valid rabies vaccine and Pet Passport (if coming from outside the EU), they only have to stay in quarantine for 2 months before they can get out and explore!

Do Dogs Need to Be Quarantined in Spain?

Yes, dogs do have to go into quarantine in Spain if they arrive from a country with a known risk of rabies.

Conclusion

To get you and your pet on the right path toward traveling to Spain, know that you will need to take care of some preliminary tasks before leaving. Any pet owner should take these matters seriously, considering how expensive and stressful things can become if they are not taken care of beforehand.

With this article on travel to Spain with the dog, you will have enough knowledge to make the right decision. However, consider all your options carefully and do your research. Also, do not forget to go through our checklist of items while traveling with a pet. Hopefully, it will be helpful when planning your next trip.

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