🐾✈️ Travelling with Your Pet in Europe: What You Need to Know in 2026

Planning to leave Sotogrande, cross the border and enjoy a holiday in Europe with your dog or cat? 🚗🐶🇪🇺 Travelling with pets is becoming easier, but it is important to know the required documents and regulations.

Since 22 April 2026, new European rules apply to travelling with dogs, cats and ferrets. At BM Properties, we share the essentials to help you prepare for your trip with peace of mind. 🐾

📋 What does your pet need to travel?

When travelling within the EU, your pet will generally need:

🐾 A microchip that is correctly registered.

💉 A valid rabies vaccination recorded in the pet passport. For a first vaccination, at least 21 days will normally need to have passed before travelling.

📘 A European pet passport, containing the animal's details, microchip information and health records.

👉 Some countries may have additional requirements, so it is always advisable to check the regulations for your destination before travelling.

👨‍👩‍👧 Can your pet travel with someone else?

Yes. Another person can accompany your pet if the owner travels no more than five days before or after the pet and provides written authorisation.

If the animal travels alone or outside this period, additional health requirements may apply.

✅ Checklist before leaving Sotogrande

Before travelling, make sure you have:

• ☑️ A working and correctly registered microchip.
• ☑️ A valid rabies vaccination.
• ☑️ An up-to-date European pet passport.
• ☑️ Checked the specific requirements of your destination.
• ☑️ Written authorisation if your pet is travelling with someone else.
• ☑️ An appropriate carrier, harness or safety system. 🚗🐕

💡 BM Properties tip: make an appointment with your vet before travelling to check the microchip, passport and vaccinations.

🍹 Can you go out for a drink with your pet in Spain?

Spain's Animal Welfare Law 7/2023 allows bars and restaurants to admit pets, although each establishment can decide whether or not to allow them.

If a venue does not allow pets, this must be indicated by a clearly visible sign at the entrance.

🚫 Pets are also not allowed in areas where food is prepared, stored or handled, such as kitchens and storage areas.

So, before sitting down on a terrace with your dog, check that the establishment is pet friendly. 🐕🍹

🐾 In summary

Travelling with your pet around Europe is becoming easier, but it is essential to keep all documentation up to date and check the requirements of your destination country.

At BM Properties, we recommend planning your trip in advance, checking with your vet and enjoying the adventure with your best friend. 🐶❤️✈️