Planning a holiday with your beloved dog? Whether you're travelling within Ireland or venturing across Europe, proper preparation ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and your furry companion.
Important Notice
If you prefer not to bring your pet on holiday, consider professional dog boarding services which provide excellent care whilst you're away. There are many quality boarding kennels throughout Ireland.
EU Pet Passport Requirements
For travel within the European Union, an EU Pet Passport is essential. This document allows your dog to travel freely between EU member states.
What You Need for an EU Pet Passport:
- Microchip: ISO compliant 15-digit microchip implanted by a vet
- Rabies vaccination: Current and valid rabies vaccination (dogs must be at least 12 weeks old)
- 21-day waiting period: After rabies vaccination before travel is permitted
- Authorised veterinarian: Passport must be issued by an EU-authorised vet
Getting Your EU Pet Passport in Ireland:
- Visit any authorised Irish veterinarian (most are qualified)
- Ensure your dog is microchipped first
- Get the rabies vaccination recorded in the passport
- Wait 21 days after vaccination before travelling
- Cost typically ranges from €20-€40 plus vaccination fees
Airline Travel Considerations
Important: Not all airlines will accept your pet. Each airline has different policies regarding pet travel, size restrictions, and breed limitations.
Before Booking Your Flight:
- Check airline pet policy: Contact airline directly to confirm they accept pets
- Size and weight limits: Cabin travel usually limited to small dogs in approved carriers
- Breed restrictions: Some airlines ban certain breeds, particularly brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs
- Seasonal restrictions: Some airlines restrict pet travel during extreme weather
- Health certificates: May be required even for EU travel
- Advance booking: Limited pet spaces available on each flight
Common Airline Restrictions:
- Cabin pets typically under 8kg including carrier
- Cargo restrictions for extreme temperatures
- Breed bans often include Bulldogs, Pugs, and other flat-faced breeds
- Additional fees ranging from €50-€300+ each way
Ferry Travel Alternative
Ferry travel can be an excellent alternative to flying, offering more flexibility and often less stress for your dog.
Irish Ferries Pet Travel:
Irish Ferries offers pet-friendly services on various routes. For detailed information about pet travel on all routes, including Ireland-Britain routes, visit their pet travel FAQ page.
Advantages of Ferry Travel:
- Pet cabins available: Special accommodation for pets on many routes
- Regular access: Ability to visit your pet during the journey
- Less stressful: More spacious and comfortable for larger dogs
- Flexible scheduling: Multiple departures daily on popular routes
- Car transport: Bring your own vehicle for onward travel
Popular Ferry Routes from Ireland:
- Dublin to Holyhead: Gateway to Wales and England
- Rosslare to Pembroke: Direct route to Wales
- Cork to Roscoff: Direct to France
- Rosslare to Cherbourg: Direct to France
Boarding Kennel Alternative
If bringing your dog on holiday isn't practical, professional boarding kennels provide excellent care and peace of mind whilst you're away.
Benefits of Professional Boarding:
- Experienced care: Professional staff trained in animal care
- Socialisation: Opportunity for your dog to interact with others
- Regular exercise: Structured play and exercise programmes
- Medical oversight: Staff trained to recognise health issues
- Peace of mind: Enjoy your holiday knowing your dog is well cared for
Finding Quality Boarding:
There are many excellent boarding kennels throughout Ireland. For comprehensive information about choosing and preparing for boarding, visit our detailed dog boarding guide.
Research facilities in advance, visit in person, and book early, especially during peak holiday seasons.
Preparing for Your Holiday
Essential Preparation Checklist:
- Documentation: EU Pet Passport, health certificates, insurance documents
- Accommodation: Confirm pet-friendly policies at your destination
- Travel carrier: IATA-approved carrier for air travel if required
- Health check: Recent veterinary examination before travel
- Food and medication: Sufficient supplies for the entire trip
- Identification: Current ID tags with your mobile number
- Comfort items: Familiar blankets, toys, and bedding
Travel Timeline:
- 6-8 weeks before: Obtain EU Pet Passport if needed
- 4 weeks before: Book pet-friendly accommodation
- 2 weeks before: Confirm airline/ferry pet policies
- 1 week before: Health check with your vet
- Day of travel: Allow extra time for check-in procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
The passport itself can be issued immediately by an authorised vet, but you must wait 21 days after the rabies vaccination before travelling. Plan at least 6-8 weeks ahead if your dog needs initial microchipping and vaccination.
For Northern Ireland, yes - EU Pet Passports are still accepted. For Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales), you'll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) from an Official Veterinarian, which is valid for four months.
Consult your vet about natural calming aids or mild sedatives if necessary. Practice short trips in carriers, bring familiar items, and consider ferry travel as a less stressful alternative to flying. Some dogs benefit from anti-anxiety medication prescribed by a vet.
Boarding might be better for nervous dogs, very young or old dogs, or if your destination isn't pet-friendly. Quality boarding kennels provide excellent care, and your dog may even enjoy the socialisation. Visit our
boarding guide for more information.
Safe Travels!
Whether you choose to bring your dog along or arrange professional boarding, proper planning ensures everyone has a wonderful holiday. Remember to research your options early and always prioritise your dog's comfort and well-being. Many popular kennels get booked months in adfance, especially around school breaks and at Christmas time.
