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The European Consumer Centre (Centre Européen des Consommateurs - CEC) Luxembourg has shared advice for travelling with pets.

With the summer holiday season fast approaching, many pet owners wish to take their beloved companions on holiday. However, CEC Luxembourg urged those planning to travel - especially with dogs or cats - to familiarise themselves with the relevant regulations "well in advance".

CEC Luxembourg said the rules are designed to prevent the spread of serious animal diseases and to ensure a safe and secure journey. Violations, such as missing vaccinations or incomplete documentation, can lead to denied boarding on flights, denied entry into the country, quarantine or the animal being sent back at the owner's expense.

Important requirements for travelling with dogs and cats include:

  • Clear identification: dogs and cats must be clearly identifiable by a microchip. Tattoos are only permitted if they were applied before 3 July 2011 and are still clearly legible;
  • EU pet passport: an EU Pet Passport is mandatory for travelling with dogs or cats. This official document contains all important information about the animal's identity as well as proof of a valid rabies vaccination. It must be issued by an authorised veterinarian;
  • Valid rabies vaccination: initial vaccinations may be administered from twelve weeks of age. After vaccination, a waiting period of 21 days must be observed before travel to ensure full immunisation. This waiting period does not apply if booster vaccinations are up to date. Generally, animals under fifteen weeks of age (twelve weeks plus 21 days) are not permitted to travel. Some countries may allow exceptions, for example, if the animal is travelling with its mother or holds an appropriate certificate;
  • Country-specific additional requirements: some EU countries have additional entry requirements. For example, Finland, Ireland, Malta and Norway require treatment against the fox tapeworm;
  • Travel to and return from non-EU countries: different or stricter rules may apply, such as a rabies antibody test, entry via specific control points and the presentation of health certificates.

These rules also apply to ferrets. For birds, rabbits, reptiles and rodents, different rules apply.

CEC Luxembourg also provided the following transport advice:

  • Air travel: passengers travelling by air should check the specific airline's conditions in advance, as these can vary considerably;
  • Train travel: there are no uniform EU-wide regulations. Passengers are advised to check with the train company and the relevant authorities in the destination country.

CEC Luxembourg stressed that thorough preparation is the key to a relaxed journey with one's pet. The centre advised checking all requirements, vaccinations and documents in good time - also for transit and return countries.

In case of questions, CEC Luxembourg recommended contacting a veterinarian, the veterinary authority, the embassies of the destination countries or the respective transport companies.

For more information, consumers can contact CEC Luxembourg directly via www.cecluxembourg.lu.