If you plan to take your pet with you on a trip to Italy or are moving there, there are a few rules that must be followed. Pets could be quarantined or returned home if they don’t have the proper documents. Certificates must comply with Regulation 998 of the European Union.
These regulations apply only to bringing pets through Customs to Italy. If you are arriving by plane or boat, check the additional rules with your airline or boat company. This information was current as of May 2018, according to the U.S. Embassy and Consulates website. Rules and regulations are subject to change.
The rules
Each pet you want to bring to Italy must have:
- A veterinary certificate from the European Community, which should include details about the owner, a description of the pet and details of vaccination and identification
- A current rabies vaccine; If it is the first vaccination, you cannot bring your pet to Italy until 21 days after vaccination
- A microchip or tattoo
- The carrier must be labeled with the owner’s contact details
- Pet must be at least 3 months old.
- Dogs must be on a leash and muzzle
- You should clean up after your dog in public places
Guide dogs
Guide dogs for the blind must adhere to the same rules to enter the country as normal pets. Once in Italy, guide dogs can travel without restrictions on all public transport and are not required to wear a muzzle or have a ticket, and can also enter all public buildings and shops.
Train ride
With the exception of guide dogs, only cats and dogs weighing less than 13 pounds (6 kilos) are allowed on Italian trains. They must be kept in a carrier and the owner must carry a certificate or statement from a veterinarian, issued within three months of the date of the train journey, stating that the animal does not have any contagious disease or infestation.
In most cases, small dogs or cats do not pay to ride the train, but the owner must declare the pet when purchasing a ticket. On some trains, including regional ones, a reduced price ticket may be required for medium or large dogs. Some trains limit the number of pets an owner can bring on board.
Trip by bus
Bus travel regulations vary by region and bus company. Some bus companies allow animals to ride but charge a full fee.
Travel by plane
Each airline establishes its own rules for flying with pets. Be sure to check with your airline for up-to-date information.
