If you’re planning a move to Spain, your dog or cat is probably going to come too. So, along with all the other paperwork and practicalities, there’s an extra thing to think about.
Whilst some owners have driven across France with their pets when moving to Spain, that’s not practical or desirable for others, so the good news is that there’s specialist help at hand.
With the right preparation, moving a pet from the UK to Spain can be straightforward and manageable. Here are the key things to think about before you move.
What vaccinations and preparation do pets need to travel to Spain?
Don’t leave your pet’s travel arrangements until the last minute. Your pet needs an ISO-compliant microchip and a valid rabies vaccination, with the microchip in place before or at the same time as the rabies vaccination.
For a first rabies vaccination, you’ll normally need to allow at least 21 full days before your pet can travel. Start several weeks ahead to allow time for unexpected issues.
What paperwork do you need to take a dog or cat to Spain?
For dogs and cats travelling from Great Britain to Spain, an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is required. It must be issued by an official veterinarian, and your pet must enter the EU within 10 days of the certificate being issued.
Your AHC needs to accurately match your pet’s microchip and vaccination records. This is one area where getting the dates and details right really matters.
How do you move a dog from the UK to Spain?
Dogs can travel to Spain by road, sea or air, depending on your location and preferences.
If you’re driving, your dog can stay with you throughout much of the journey. Remember, though, that a long road journey can be tiring, and you will need to plan breaks carefully.
You can book a pet-friendly cabin or onboard kennel on a ferry to Santander or Bilbao.
If you’re flying, dogs generally travel as manifest cargo rather than in the passenger cabin. A suitable IATA-compliant travel crate is essential, and the route and airline need to be considered. See below for how this works.
One important point if you’re travelling back to the UK: dogs returning to Great Britain from Spain need a vet-administered tapeworm treatment within the required 1–5-day window before entry.
How do you move a cat from the UK to Spain?
Cats can also travel to Spain by road or air. Cats often benefit from keeping their surroundings as calm and familiar as possible.
For a flying cat, a correctly sized, secure travel crate is essential. Familiar bedding can help make the crate feel less strange. Allow your cat time to get used to it.
Is it better to fly or drive your pet to Spain?
There isn’t one answer for every pet. Driving can be a good option if you want to keep your pet with you and are comfortable with a longer journey. Flying can be quicker and may make more sense if you’re travelling a long distance.
Consider your pet’s age, health, temperament, size and breed. For some pets, the shortest journey is best; for others, staying with their owner throughout is the priority.
How much does it cost to fly a dog or cat to Spain?
A basic package for a cat (flight, crate and airport check-in) is £1,900, or for a medium-sized dog, it’s £2,300.
The approximate cost for a more comprehensive package that includes home collection, two nights’ boarding and completion of the AHC is £2,900 for one cat or £3,250 for a medium-sized dog (PetAir).
How do you arrange a flight for your pet to Spain?
It is not usually possible to travel with pets in the cabin with you from the UK. Your pet will generally travel on the same aircraft as you where the airline and route allow, but they are not checked in at the normal desk. Pets travel in the hold as specially handled live animals, with specific procedures to ensure their welfare and safety.
A specialist like PetAir can manage your pet’s journey from start to finish, including booking with the airline and handling the documentation. When it’s time for the flight, home collection can be arranged, along with vet checks and export paperwork. Your pet can then be transported to the airport, checked in and correctly prepared for the flight.
What is the best way to prepare your pet for a move to Spain?
Plan early and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Moving abroad is a big step, but your pet doesn’t have to make it complicated. With the right preparation, you can start your new life in Spain knowing your dog or cat is ready to join you and settle in.
PetAir UK is veterinary-led and has helped more than 33,000 pets travel internationally, with online access to UK-registered vets, behaviour and nutrition support to ensure pets are safe and comfortable.
Read PetAir's guide to taking pets to Spain
By Jo, Business Development Manager, PetAir UK
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