Pet travel enthusiasts, rejoice! Switzerland beckons with its picturesque landscapes, charming cities, and, most importantly, its pet-friendly ethos.
In this guide, we'll delve into the essentials of traversing the Swiss terrain with your furry companions, ensuring a journey that's not just memorable but also safe and comfortable.
Exploring Pet-Friendly Switzerland
Switzerland is renowned worldwide for its exquisite chocolate, stunning mountains, and high-end timepieces. However, a little-known truth is that it is also a very pet-friendly country. Most tourist destinations, including hotels, stores, and cafés, allow dogs and cats.
This beautiful country isn't just for humans; it's a paradise for pets, too. Properly preparing your pet before embarking on your Swiss adventure is crucial.
From paperwork to vaccinations, ensuring compliance with Swiss regulations is essential. With meticulous planning,
Although shipping your pet internationally to Switzerland can be challenging, you can still provide hassle-free entry for your beloved companion.
Here is all the information you need about bringing your pet with you when you travel abroad or relocate to Switzerland for vacation.
Preparing Your Pet for Travel
Gather your pet's documents and ensure they're up-to-date with vaccinations. Switzerland requires an identification microchip and a valid rabies vaccination certificate. Additionally, familiarise yourself with the regulations concerning pet transportation to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
Make Sure Your Nation is Listed
The paperwork and medical exams a pet must undergo before an international trip are dictated by the rabies status of the home country.
Travelling pets from nations with low or regulated rabies rates typically have less paperwork and testing than pets from countries with high rabies rates.
Based on the rabies status, Switzerland has grouped the countries into three groups:
Rabies is not a problem in any of the European Union member states or territories, which are:
Rabies is not a significant problem in nations where the likelihood of rabies infection in cats and dogs is low, which are
Countries at risk of rabies
Rabies is common in these nations; therefore, it's possible that cats and dogs migrating from there could contract the disease. The high-risk country group includes all nations that did not fall into categories 1 or 2.
3. Health Certification and Import Permit
A health certificate issued by an accredited vet is required for dogs and cats travelling to Switzerland from low-risk and high-risk nations. The health certificate is valid for 10 days from the date of issue.
Thus, it must be recent. The following details are required to be included:
The pet's name and identifying characteristics, such as its microchip information
Information on rabies vaccine
Specifics of the rabies titer test, if relevant
Treatment details for Echinococcus
Information for the pet parent's contact
Travelling to Switzerland with five pets or fewer is deemed as non-commercial transport. To qualify as non-commercial transport, your entry into the country must occur within five days after your pet. If you own more than five pets, you must follow specific rules for the commercial import of animals.
The Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office issues import permits for pets travelling into the country from countries with a high disease risk. The only Swiss airports that allow these dogs to enter are Basel, Geneva, and Zurich. A permit must be requested at least three weeks before departure.
If you need professional guidance from a specialised pet travel and relocation company with over 20 years of experience, reach out to Global Paws.
4. Swiss breeds that are prohibited
Many provinces in Switzerland have varying laws governing which breeds are allowed and not. It is a good idea to review the rules before making travel arrangements.
In Geneva, it is forbidden to own any of the following dog breeds unless they are neutered and have never shown signs of aggression:
Boerboel
Cane Corso
Dogo Argentino
Fila Brasileiro
Dogue de Bordeaux
American Staffordshire Terrier
Bullmastiff
Pitbull
Presa Canario
Thai Ridgeback
Rottweiler
Matin Espagnol
Tosa Inu
Matin de Naples
In Zurich, these are among the breeds that are forbidden:
American Staffordshire Terriers
Bull Terriers
Staffordshire Bull Terriers
Switzerland forbids the importation of dogs with docked tails and cut ears. When moving, you can appeal to the customs office if your dog has a docked tail and cropped ears, providing proof that the dog is a part of your household or that the dog's docking and cropping was necessary for medical reasons.
In Switzerland, it is illegal to market, sell, give away, or display these dogs at a show.
Pet Travel to Switzerland? Call Global Paws!
Travelling to Switzerland with a pet can be challenging and intimidating, particularly for those who are not experienced pet travellers. The amount of documentation needed is enormous, and the rules are complicated. Inaccurate paperwork may result in your pet being returned home or, worse, being placed in quarantine.
As you plan your pet-friendly escapade to Switzerland, remember meticulous preparation and important information to ensure a seamless journey. With the right approach, you and your furry companion can relish every moment amidst the Swiss splendour.
So, why wait? Embark on this enchanting adventure with Global Paws, your trusted companion in pet travel and relocation.
Let us accompany you on this journey, ensuring a safe and memorable experience for you and your beloved pet. Get your quote today!
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