If you are planning to move to Spain from the UK with pets, it is important to be aware of the regulations and requirements for bringing animals into the country.
It’s a good idea to prepare and start the process well in advance of your move, as it can take several weeks to obtain the necessary documentation.
Prepare your pets for the move: Moving to a new country can be stressful for pets, so it is important to prepare them in advance. This may include gradually getting them used to being in carriers and getting them used to noisy environments. Also note there are medications available to calm your pet down.
Make travel arrangements: You will need to arrange for your pets to travel with you, either by flying with them or transporting them by car or ferry. You should research the options and choose the one that is best for your pets.
We recommend hiring a pet relocation specialist: A pet relocation specialist can help you navigate the process of moving your pets to Spain and handle all of the necessary arrangements. This is usually the most convenient and less stressful option.
The following companies offer pet transportation between the UK and Spain;
To bring your pets to Spain, you will need to have them micro-chipped, vaccinated against rabies, and obtain a official veterinary certificate known as a animal health certificate (AHC) – meet the conditions below;
- The pet must be at least 12 weeks of age.
- You cannot travel to Spain with more than five pets at a time
- The pet most be vaccinated against rabies
- The pet must have been inoculated at least 21 days prior to travel for the vaccination to be valid.
- European Pet Passport
- The pet must be micro-chipped
- Declaration that you are moving the pet for non commercial use.
- You do not have to place your dog, cat or ferret in quarantine upon arrival in Spain
Further information and advice can be found here https://www.gov.uk/taking-your-pet-abroad
These are the requirements for the more popular pets such as dogs, cats and ferrets, exotic pets require more documentation and may not be allowed in certain regions of Spain.
Also note some breeds of dogs are considered as PPP or possibly dangerous and may require a specific licence. The rules for these types of dogs vary from region to region so you will have to check the regulations in the area you are moving to.
The type of dog breeds that fall into this category are Rottweiler Doberman, Pit Bull Terriers, Dogo Argentino, and Japanese Akita
Once you arrive in Spain, you will need to register your pets with the authorities/Registro de Animales de Compañía and obtain a pet ID. It is a good idea to research the specific requirements for your type of pet and the specific region of Spain that you will be living in, as the requirements may vary.
If you are looking to move the contents of your home to Spain please contact Edwards European Moving for a competitive quotation. https://www.edwardseuropeanmoving.com
Hi I am Edward John owner and the driving force behind Edwards European Moving. I and other members of staff are trilingual speaking English, French, and Spanish. Edwards European Moving specialises in providing full door-to-door removal services across Europe. With a strong emphasis on professionalism and competence, the company has garnered a wealth of experience in house and business removals throughout the continent.