Taking Your Dog from the United States to the European Union (EU): What You Need to Know

If you’re preparing to ship your dog from the United States to the European Union, there are important veterinary and government requirements you must meet. These rules are designed to protect the health and safety of animals and humans alike. Missing a step could lead to your pet being denied entry or quarantined on arrival.

Step 1: Microchipping Your Dog

Your dog must be microchipped before travel. This tiny implant (placed between the shoulder blades) contains a unique identification number. The microchip must comply with ISO standards (ISO 11784/11785) to be readable by EU scanners. Without it, your dog’s documents will not be valid.

Step 2: Rabies Vaccination Requirements

Your dog must be up-to-date on rabies vaccination. The vaccine must be administered at least 21 days prior to travel. The veterinary certificate must include:

• Vaccination date
• Expiration date
• Manufacturer and batch number

Only vaccinations administered by a licensed veterinarian are accepted. Keep an official copy of the rabies certificate with you at all times.

Step 3: USDA APHIS Health Certificate (Form 7001 & EU Form)

Dogs traveling to the EU require an official health certificate issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian. This must be completed within 10 days of travel. The certificate verifies that your dog is free from contagious diseases, includes the microchip number, and confirms rabies vaccination status.

Once your vet completes the paperwork, it must be endorsed by the USDA APHIS Veterinary Services. You’ll either mail or visit an endorsement office for approval. This step is critical—without USDA endorsement, your pet cannot enter the EU.

Step 4: Entering the EU Through Designated Points

Your dog must arrive at an EU-approved Border Inspection Post (BIP). These entry points have veterinary officials who will inspect your documents and verify compliance.

You will need to notify the authorities of your pet’s arrival in advance. Check the official EU rules here: European Commission – Pet Travel Rules.

Country-Specific Requirements

Each EU country may have extra rules beyond the standard rabies vaccination and health certificate. For example:

• Ireland, Malta, Finland, Norway: Tapeworm treatment required 24–120 hours before entry.
• Sweden: Rabies vaccination and additional parasite prevention requirements.
• Germany & France: Strict enforcement of microchip and vaccination documentation.

Before booking flights, always check with the destination country’s consulate or veterinary authority.

Importance of Proper Documentation

Documentation is often the trickiest part of pet relocation. Mistakes or missing forms can lead to costly delays. Many families use professional pet documentation services to avoid errors. Across The Pond Pets can help prepare health certificates, USDA endorsements, and CITES permits where necessary.

Documents You Will Need:

• Microchip certificate
• Rabies vaccination certificate
• USDA APHIS endorsed health certificate
• Airline-specific forms (varies by carrier)

You can review the official requirements and access export health certificates via the USDA APHIS updated page: Export Live Animals to European Union – USDA APHIS . This page includes the latest information on export health certificate issuance using VEHCS and country-specific requirements.

Travel Timeline Planning

30–60 Days Before Travel

Ensure your dog’s microchip and rabies vaccination are compliant. Book flights and confirm pet policies with the airline.

10 Days Before Travel

Schedule a vet appointment for the EU health certificate. Submit documents to USDA APHIS for endorsement.

Day of Travel

Arrive early at the airport with all original documents. Airlines will not accept photocopies. Keep your dog’s health certificates accessible at all times.

Why Use a Professional Pet Shipping Company?

Pet relocation involves navigating airlines, veterinarians, and government agencies. A small error could mean your dog gets denied boarding or quarantined overseas. Working with an experienced company like Across The Pond Pets ensures:

• Paperwork is completed correctly and endorsed
• Flight logistics are coordinated with pet safety in mind
• Customs clearance is handled smoothly

Learn more about our Pet Documentation Services designed to simplify the process.

Conclusion

To successfully bring your dog from the United States to the EU, you’ll need a compliant microchip, rabies vaccination, and a USDA-endorsed health certificate. Each country may have additional requirements, so always double-check regulations. By preparing early and considering professional help, you can make your dog’s international journey safe and stress-free.