Spending the cold winter months in the warm south and relax on the beach. Spain is a popular holiday destination for those who prefer to escape the cold and also a great destination if you want to take your dog or cat with you. There are of course a number of rules and other things that you have to take into account.

Before departure, upon arrival and during your stay in Spain

Pet passport
In order to identify your dog or cat during a customs or police inspection, you must have an official EU pet passport. This passport must be issued by a recognized veterinarian and contain information about the breed, the chip number and the vaccinations your pet has had and whether these are still valid.

Microchip
In all EU countries, you are obliged to have your dog or cat chipped with a microchip if you want to take him or her across the border. This also applies to Spain. So make sure that your pet has a valid chip before you heading to Spain.

Rabies (rabies) Vaccination
Spain, like all EU member states, requires that all dogs and cats entering the country have had a valid vaccination against Rabies. This vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before departure and must be valid at the time of entry. However, please note that the vaccination is still valid on the way back. You then cross the border again to another EU country, which has the same rule regarding this vaccination. Please also note that the vaccination is only administered after the microchip has been placed or on the same day. Otherwise the vaccination is not valid.

Register pet customs
Upon arrival in Spain, it is not mandatory to go through a special customs gate or register your pet anywhere if you meet all the above requirements. You must of course be able to show the necessary documents (EU pet passport with vaccination information and chip number) during an inspection. Please note: different or additional rules apply to dangerous dog breeds (read more about this below).

Leash obligation
In urban areas and public spaces, pets must usually be kept on a leash. Furthermore, certain restrictions may apply, especially during the summer season, with regard to leashes or access to parks, beaches, etc. Therefore, always check the local rules and signs for more information. Furthermore, you should always have dog poop bags with you when you are with a dog, otherwise you could be fined.

Dangerous dog breeds
It is good to know that there are specific rules for certain dog breeds that are considered dangerous. These include the Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu and Akita Inu. Crossbreeds with these breeds, dogs that have physically the same characteristics or have shown dangerous or aggressive behavior in the past also fall into this category. In Spain, these dogs must always be on a leash with a maximum length of 2 meters. They must also wear a muzzle when in public spaces and are sometimes prohibited in parks or beaches where other dogs may be welcome.

Furthermore, the rules may differ per region in Spain, but for tourists it is usually sufficient to have all documents (such as passport, chip and rabies vaccination) in order and to take out international pet insurance that covers any damage or injury caused by the dog . If you are visiting a certain region or staying somewhere for a longer period of time, please inquire with the municipality of your destination whether additional registration of the dog is required. Upon arrival in Spain you must also go through the red gate at customs so that they can check the dog and necessary documents.

Transport safely
In Spain you must transport pets safely, preferably in a crate/transport box or in a special car harness that you can clip into a seat belt. Please also note that temperatures in Spain can be very warm, even in the winter months. Therefore, never leave your dog or cat in the car or camper if the temperatures are not safe and ensure there is sufficient drinking water.

Fleas, ticks and worms
Finally, it is good to take into account that fleas, ticks and worms also occur in Spain. In fact, you will find more different types there. Including the giant tick and worms that can transmit heartworm. Mosquitoes, sand flies and stable flies can also pose a danger and make your pet very sick.

Packing list for taking your dog to Spain

• EU pet passport with all data
• Foldable food and water bowl
• Enough kibble (or check at a pet store such as TiendAnimal whether your brand food is also for sale in Spain)
• Remedy against fleas/ticks/worms such as Advantix, Milbemax, Seresto, Tickless and/or garlic bonbons
• Tick remover set (also for yourself)
• A well-fitting harness and leash
• Poop bags
• Toys like a Kong, bone or rope
• Crate or harness with animal belt for safe transport in the car
• Basket, pillow or blanket to lie on
• Elevated dog bed (when you go camping)
• Mooring spiral (when you go camping)

Packing list for taking your cat to Spain

• EU pet passport with all data
• Foldable food and water bowl
• Enough kibble (or check at a pet store such as TiendAnimal if your brand is also for sale in Spain)
• Remedy against fleas/ticks/worms such as Stronghold Plus, Milbemax, Seresto, Tickless and/or garlic bonbons
• Tick remover set (also for yourself)
• A well-fitting harness and leash
• Scratching furniture and toys such as scratching post, springs or play mouse
• Cat backpack, crate or animal belt for safe transport
• Mooring spiral (when you go camping)