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Guide for Traveling with a Service Dog in Europe

Traveling is exciting. Taking in the new sites, discovering interesting people, and making memories are all things that a wonderful vacation are supposed to be. These expectations shouldn’t change just because you need to travel with a Service Dog.
However, before you book your flight, there are some things you will need to keep in mind when traveling to Europe with a Service Dog. In this post, we will cover all those important areas to help get you prepared for your dream vacation.
Traveling to Europe – Rules About Service Dogs
When traveling abroad with your Service Dog, there are five main things you will have to get done before your canine will be allowed into the country;
- 1. A microchip in your Service Dog
- 2. Rabies vaccinations
- 3. Blood Work
- 4. EU health certificate
- 5. Treated for ticks, fleas, and worms
The microchip must be ISO compatible as not all from the United States can be read in Europe. Ask your veterinarian if your Assistance Animal’s microchip is going to be “readable” at your destination point.
The second major concern is with your dog’s rabies vaccination. Most European places will need proof of your dog receiving two rabies titers as well as the original rabies certificate. This document also needs to have details of the vaccine used including the expiration date and the lot number.
Your Service Dog must have its blood tested (at an EU-approved laboratory) with a satisfactory result. This will have to be done six months in advance of your travel date.
Once this has been completed, you will have to apply for an EU pet passport or, in a non-EU listed country, a third country official veterinary certificate.
Note that when traveling from the US to Europe all animals (including those used for service) must have a USDA certification stamp which is completed by your veterinarian.
Finally, your Service Dog will need to be treated for ticks, fleas, and tapeworms.
Where is My Service Dog Allowed in Europe?
It is against the law for service providers to discriminate against those with disabilities, this also includes individuals with Service Dogs.
Under the new law, service providers must make “reasonable adjustments” to their premises making it accessible for those that have a disability. This law also covers giving the person extra help where needed (i.e., guiding to a table or finding the washroom).
In Europe, Service Dogs and their handlers are allowed access to all public places including restaurants, hotels, public transportation, banks, theaters, pubs, and libraries.
Many businesses in the UK have been accredited by Assistance Dog International or the International Guide Dog Federation. Both these non-profit organizations are dedicated to helping those with disabilities get the rights they deserve and help guide businesses in being Service Dog-friendly.
Caring for Your Service Dog When Traveling to Europe
Caring for your Service Dog when traveling abroad will take some planning. Check out these helpful tips so you and your Service Dog will be prepared.
Food & Supplements
Make sure your dog’s food is manufacturer sealed. This will avoid any conflict when boarding the aircraft. Your local pet retailer may have sample packages of your dog’s kibble that will be easier to transport.
If you are embarking on a more extended trip, you may consider ordering your dog’s food and having it delivered to your destination point. Many regions will also have pet retailers that you can purchase your dog’s kibble; however, you may want to call or email them to be sure your dog’s brand is carried and in stock.
If your canine needs medications, be sure to keep them in the original bottles with a note from your veterinarian explaining their purpose.
Climate Changes
When traveling abroad, you will want to consider the climate you are both coming from and entering into.
When traveling from a cold to a warm climate, acclimate your Service Dog by;
- 1. Shaving or trimming his coat
- 2. Brush his coat often
- 3. Add Pedialyte to his water to prevent dehydration
- 4. Use small pocket freezer packs in the dog vest to help keep your Service Dog cool
- 5. Use paw Booties to protect the dog’s feet
When traveling from a warm climate to a cold one, protect your SD by;
- 1. Using insulated vests or dog jackets
- 2. Brushing your dog’s coat to keep it in optimal condition
- 3. Using paw Booties
Additional Service Dog Health Tips
No one wants their pet or Service Dog to become ill, especially when traveling outside their own country. To help keep your canine companion in top shape when in Europe, follow these additional Service Dog health tips.
- Carry a pet first aid kit and add any additional supplies that apply to your Service Dog.
- Take a pet first aid course or ask your veterinarian for the basics. Even if you may not be able to physically perform the first aid task, you may be able to instruct someone else to do so.
- Find a veterinarian at your destination point. It may also be handy to drop this person an email introducing yourself. Letting them know that you would like to use their services in the case of an emergency. Keep this information in a safe, yet handy place.
- Set aside “emergency money” just in case your Service Dog gets ill or injured.
- Carry a muzzle or head halter. Some places may require this gear. Be sure your dog has been introduced to these and is comfortable using them.
- Have a backup plan in case your SD cannot help you.
Traveling With Your Service Dog in Europe
When traveling with a Service Dog to Europe (or any destination), you will have to make plans well in advance. Inform the airlines (before your flight date) that you will be accompanied by a Service Dog to avoid any delays.
Make sure your canine has had proper rabies, wellness check and parasite treatments that are required by law for any animal traveling into Europe.
Finally pack your dog’s food, supplies and get him ready for any significant climate changes.
Being prepared is the best way to avoid delays or even dismissal from your final destination point.
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I’m considering a move to spain, do you know if spanish landlords accept emotional support animals even in no-pets allowed housing?
Emotional Support Animals generally are not recognized or given any special rights in most European countries. However you will find that Europe generally seems to be much more dog friendly throughout. You will see regular pets (albeit super well trained) on public transport and in shops and restaurants. It is doubtful you will have a problem.
If someone is studying abroad for a semester, how can they travel around from country to country with their service dog?
They would need to consult the rules and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as every country handles service dogs differently. Also, if traveling by plane, it’s best to check with the airline before making any arrangements. You may find this article on international travel with service dogs interesting https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/international-travel-service-dog/
No one seems to address the question about any quarantine rules.
Are your certifications valid in Europe even if a dog is not comming from the USA? I live in Germany and I’m wondering if your certification would allow me to travel with my dog within Europe.
Yes, you may utilize the Service Dog Certification globally but must follow local regulations.
When you are ready, you may order a Service Dog Certification licensed for your service dog below –
https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/service-dog-id/
My daughter recently was refused her dog on KLM airlines for an internal European flight as they only recognise service dogs for physical disabilities. It was a nightmare trying to get him on the plane with her. She could take him as a pet but only under her seat in a cage or soft bag (he’s only small). Nothing would sway them. They will allow emotional support dogs (but again nothing about psychiatric service dogs) on flights to the US. This is discriminatory.
Euopean flight companies do not allo ESA in intereuropean flights. They treat them as pets.
I think they consider them as ESA only for flights from Europe to USA