For many British homeowners making the move to Spain—whether for retirement, remote work, or holiday retreats—the idea of leaving a beloved pet behind is simply unthinkable. Fortunately, bringing your furry companion with you to Spain is not only possible, it’s increasingly common. But in a post-Brexit world, pet travel now comes with new rules and responsibilities.
What’s Changed Since Brexit?
Prior to 2021, pet travel between the UK and Spain was straightforward under the EU Pet Passport scheme. Now, as the UK is no longer part of the EU, that passport is no longer valid for travel from Great Britain to EU countries. Instead, UK pet owners must now obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for every trip to the EU.
Checklist: What You’ll Need to Bring a Pet to Spain
Whether you’re heading to a beachside town in Andalusia, a quiet village in Aragón, or a bustling city like Valencia or Madrid, your pet must meet these entry requirements:
1. Microchip
Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant chip, which is the standard across Europe.
2. Rabies Vaccination
They must be vaccinated against rabies, with the vaccine given at least 21 days before travel. If it’s a booster and still within date, no waiting period is needed.
3. Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
This must be issued by a UK-licensed vet within 10 days of travel and is valid for:
- Entry into the EU (once)
- Continued EU travel for 4 months
- Return to the UK
The AHC is required for each trip, so frequent travelers may find this time-consuming and costly (typically £100–£250 per certificate).
4. Tapeworm Treatment (for Dogs Returning to UK)
While not required to enter Spain, dogs must receive tapeworm treatment 1–5 days before returning to the UK.
How to Get to Spain with Pets
Flying:
Many UK airports offer pet cargo services, and some smaller airlines allow pets in the cabin depending on size and route (usually for cats or small dogs under 8kg). Be sure to check with airlines well in advance and ensure your pet’s crate meets IATA standards.
Driving:
Driving from the UK to Spain via the Eurotunnel or ferry is one of the most popular options. It’s flexible, and pets can stay with you in the vehicle, which is less stressful for many animals. Ferry companies like Brittany Ferries offer pet-friendly cabins or onboard kennels.
Pet Relocation Services:
Professional pet couriers can handle the entire journey, including paperwork, transport, and customs checks. This is often the least stressful (though most expensive) option for long-distance moves.
Once in Spain: What to Do Next
After arrival, some regions in Spain require dogs to be registered with the local town hall (ayuntamiento), especially if you’re staying long-term. You’ll be issued a local ID and may need to show proof of vaccinations.
Insurance and Dangerous Breed Rules
If your dog is on Spain’s list of Perros Potencialmente Peligrosos (PPP)—which includes breeds like Staffordshire Bull Terriers or Rottweilers—you’ll need:
- A special license
- Public liability insurance
- A psychological fitness certificate in some regions
Rules vary by autonomous community, so check local laws (normativas locales).
Adapting to Your New Environment
Whether you’re living in a flat in Bilbao or a farmhouse in Extremadura, consider your pet’s needs:
- Secure outdoor areas
- Protection from summer heat
- Access to nearby vets
- Understanding of local community rules for noise and animal control
Many Spanish municipalities have excellent veterinary services, and English-speaking vets are common in expat-frequented areas.
No Quarantine—If You Follow the Rules
As long as your documents are in order and vaccinations are up to date, there’s no quarantine period required when bringing pets into Spain from the UK. However, errors or missing paperwork could cause delays or extra costs at the border.
A New Life Together
Pets are part of the family, and for many, their presence makes a house feel like home. Whether it’s a peaceful cat enjoying a sunlit balcony in Burgos or a dog joining you for hikes in the Pyrenees, Spain offers a rewarding and pet-friendly lifestyle for those prepared to make the move responsibly.
Useful Links:
- UK Government Pet Travel Guidance
- Spanish Ministry of Agriculture – Pet Entry Rules
- DEFRA Approved Pet Couriers
