Tips to Know When Traveling to Italy With Your Dog
Visiting Italy: Tips On How To Travel With Your Dog
Pets are part of the family and as such, they should be included in any holiday plans. Thankfully, Italy is such a pet-friendly country that you can find hotels and guesthouses that don’t mind having a pet on the premises. While dogs are welcomed all over Italy, the rules can vary from place to place so it’s best to do your research before planning a trip.
Here are a few tips on how to travel with your dog in Italy.
Here are some useful hacks for your Italian trip with your dog:
Check your airline’s policies.
Many major airlines will allow small dogs in the cabin on domestic and international flights, but you need to check in advance to make sure that your dog is eligible and to find out about the airline’s specific policies regarding travel with pets.
Make sure that you know the requirements for documentation, crate size and other details. You will also need to have a certificate of good health and submit it to the Italian embassy. Any other required paperwork will be specified by the embassy.
It is also a good idea to call ahead to the airline to reserve a spot for your pet. Although most airlines will allow dogs on a first-come, first-served basis, you will avoid a lot of stress and anxiety if you make sure that your dog has a confirmed spot on the flight.
Get your dog a microchip & a health certificate.
The rules for travelling with your dog in Italy are the same as for all other pets. The animal must be identified by a tattoo or a microchip (this will help identify your dog if he gets lost), must be accompanied by a vaccination certificate, which among others shows that he has been vaccinated against rabies, and the animal must have a collar with the owner’s contact information.
For cross-border travel with your dog in Italy, the animal must also be accompanied by a veterinary certificate, which is issued by the veterinarian no more than 10 days before travel. The certificate must contain the following:
- Identification number and identification method
- Breed
- Age and gender
- Place of birth
- Vaccinations
- Travel itinerary
- Health status and treatment administered during travel
- Owner contact information
- Owner signature
- Veterinarian’s signature and stamp
It is advisable to have a copy of the vet certificate. You should also take this with you on the trip, as well as the vaccine certificate.
If you are travelling to Italy with your dog from a high-risk country and have not been vaccinated against rabies, you must allow your animal to be vaccinated and wait at least 21 days before you can travel.
Pack all the essentials.
If you are flying, make sure you have everything you need for your dog to have a comfortable journey. This includes a travel crate or carrier, food, and water. It’s also a good idea to pack a spare lead and some dog toys.
If you are driving, you need to make sure your dog is comfortable in the car. This means taking regular breaks for toilet breaks and exercise.
The example of the list is below:
- A leash and collar
- A pet carrier
- A bowl and water bottle
- A supply of food
- A toy or two
- A blanket or pillow
- A travel bag for yourself
Choose pet-friendly accommodations.
As mentioned, there are many hotels and guesthouses that are open to pets. Do your research beforehand and book an accommodation that will offer the best possible experience for both you and your dog. Once you have booked, make sure to contact them and let them know you will be bringing your pet along.
Follow the rules.
Like in any country, there are rules and regulations to follow when traveling with your dog in Italy.
In general, when traveling by car, keep your dog restrained in a seat belt or crate. When traveling by train, keep your dog on a leash at all times and be prepared to show your pet passport to the conductor. Your dog also must be leashed at all times in public places.
Where to go with your dog in Italy?
There are many dog-friendly places to visit in Italy, including the following:
- Rome – The Eternal City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it is also very welcoming to dogs. Many of the city’s attractions, including the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain, allow dogs on leash.
- Florence – The capital of the Tuscany region is another great city for a vacation with your dog. Many of Florence’s most popular attractions, such as the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Uffizi Gallery, are open to dogs.
- Lake Garda – This beautiful lake in northern Italy is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Dogs are welcome in most public areas, including the beaches, parks, and restaurants.
- Sardinia – The island of Sardinia is a popular vacation destination for Italians and tourists alike. Dogs are welcome on most of the island’s beaches and in many of the restaurants.
- Venice – The floating city of Venice is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. Dogs are welcome in most public areas, including the St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and the Canal Grande.
Conclusion
When it comes to travelling with your dog, Italy is a great choice. Just make sure to do your research and prepare in advance.
