A road trip to Europe is one thing (and a pretty epic thing at that), but taking the whole family – your favourite four-legged friends included – is a recipe for an unforgettable European adventure. The bonus? You won't have to organise a pet sitter for while you’re away. With dog-friendly destinations covering the continent and easy pet travel between European countries, it's no wonder so many people take their beloved pooches on holiday. Read on to discover our top tips for travelling with pets to Europe...
1. Can I take my dog to France?
2. Pets on ferries
3. Pets on the Eurotunnel
4. Things to consider when travelling with a pet
Can I take my dog to France?
Good question. The short answer is yes, but of course, it's not that straightforward. Firstly, and most inconveniently for every pet and travel-lover, the Eurostar doesn’t allow dogs, cats or any other pets on board (unless they’re guide dogs). So, sadly your pooch won't be able to join you on the train from London to Paris, but fear not – there are other ways of taking your furry friends with you to Europe...
Image by Alix Pardo
Pets on Ferries
Taking to the seas with your fluffy companion is a great way of travelling with pets to Europe. There are still some things to consider before piling every person and pet into the car, however. Most ferries will only allow pets on board if they stay in a vehicle for the duration of the ferry crossing. If this is a concern, consider the shorter ferry crossings during the summer – so your pet won’t be left alone for as long – or, you can always book a pet-friendly cabin on board.
Pets on the Eurotunnel
Probably your best (and most convenient) bet when travelling with a pet is the Eurotunnel. Your dog or cat stays in the car with you as you whizz from Folkestone to Calais in just 35 minutes – resulting in a stress-free travel experience for you and your pet. The whole process is a breeze: it's super easy to check-in (particularly with FlexiPlus tickets, which let you choose which train to take), you don't have to be there any earlier than you do sans pet, and there are even dedicated pet-exercise areas and complimentary doggie bags. Sweet.
Image by Olga Saliy Annatamila/stock.adobe.com
Things to consider when travelling with a pet
When it comes to travelling with a pet, there are a few things you'll want to know before booking your pooch-proof trip. Dogs must be over 12 weeks old to travel and it will cost extra to bring them on ferries and the Eurotunnel, as will cats (and ferrets, if you must). To travel, your pet has to have a pet passport (no teeth, smiling or glasses in the photo, please), an up-to-date microchip and a rabies jab. Make sure you check the specific requirements (such as jabs and worming) with your vet before travelling with pets to Europe.
Just as you need your snacks and the children need their entertainment, you'll need to pack and plan ahead when travelling with pets. You might want to bring the following: their favourite snacks, lots of water and a bowl, a snuggly bed, spare - well - everything and a toy. Plan lots of driving breaks to stretch their four legs and use up some of their energy. No one needs an over-excited furball of fun in the car when driving on the opposite side of the road…
Header image by Alix Pardo
