Are you planning to bring your furry friend along on your journey to the Netherlands from another EU country? Understanding the regulations for non-commercial transport of dogs and cats within the EU is essential. Here’s what you need to know:
ID, Pet Passport, and Rabies Vaccination:
When traveling with your dog or cat from another EU Member State to the Netherlands, including countries like Andorra, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland, certain requirements must be met:
- Your pet must have a valid ID, typically in the form of a microchip or readable tattoo (for tattoos applied before July 2011).
- An EU Pet Passport issued by a veterinarian is mandatory.
- All animals over 3 months old must be vaccinated against rabies, as certified by a veterinarian in the passport.
- The date of identification should precede or be the same as the first rabies vaccination recorded in the EU Pet passport.
Valid Rabies Vaccination:
For a rabies vaccination to be considered valid, certain criteria must be met:
- The primary rabies vaccination should be administered when the animal is at least 12 weeks old and at least 21 days before departure. Consequently, importing animals younger than 15 weeks old is not permitted in the Netherlands.
- If your pet already has a valid rabies vaccination, there’s no need for revaccination unless recommended otherwise by the vaccine manufacturer.
- In case of revaccination, following the manufacturer’s recommendations is crucial. If the vaccination was administered in a different EU Member State than the one of departure, consult your veterinarian regarding the specific vaccination guidelines used.
Traveling with your beloved pet is a wonderful experience, but ensuring compliance with regulations is vital for a smooth journey to the Netherlands. With proper preparation and adherence to these guidelines, you and your furry companion can look forward to a safe and hassle-free trip.