GREECE
Relocating with Pets to Greece
Greece, a land renowned for its influential philosophers like Plato and Socrates, the historical Olympic Games, and grand temples adorned with iconic Greek columns, holds a special allure for many.
If you’re contemplating a move to this captivating country, it is crucial to ensure that your beloved furry companions can accompany you on this exciting journey.
Once you’ve made the decision to relocate to Greece with your pets, it’s essential to understand the initial steps involved in the moving process for your cherished companions. This will ensure they can enter the country safely and securely and are comfortable along the way.
Beginning the Moving Process to Greece with Pets
Similar to any other country, Greece has specific requirements that must be met for each pet upon their entry. Failure to adhere to these rules may result in your pet being left behind.
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Microchips
All pets intending to move to Greece need to be vaccinated and microchipped at least 30 days before their relocation. The microchip should adhere to the ISO11784 standards and should be implanted prior to the creation of vaccination records. This means that the vaccination records can be attached to the chip and are reviewable internationally.
The microchip will also ensure that your pet can be reunited with you if you become separated for any reason. Greece has a high number of stray cats and dogs, so it’s important that your pet is identifiable as having a family.
Ferndale can provide comprehensive assistance in understanding the entire process related to microchips, as well as other aspects of pet relocation.
Pet Vaccinations for Greece
It is mandatory for your pets to have the Rabies vaccine, accompanied by a valid certificate indicating the date of administration. Additionally, it is recommended that you ensure the following vaccines are up to date:
For Dogs:
- Hepatitis
- Leptospirosis
- Parainfluenza
- Parvovirus
- Distemper
- Bordetella
For Cats:
- Calicivirus
- Panleukopenia
- Viral Rhinotracheitis
These vaccines are generally part of the routine annual vaccinations for pets, rather than specific travel requirements. However, we advise keeping all vaccines up to date to prevent the transmission of diseases during or after travel. Our team can assist you in planning and scheduling these vaccinations in advance, minimising any potential travel documentation delays.
Pet Documentation for Greece
Our dedicated team will help arrange a comprehensive veterinary check-up for your dog or cat, ensuring they receive a signed-off bill of health within 10 days prior to your departure.
As Greece is part of the European Union, it is necessary to complete the EU Health Certificate. This certificate remains valid in Greece for 10 days from the date it is signed by the veterinarian. We will assist in coordinating the necessary appointments, travel dates, and other vital commitments to ensure the validity of your documents.
The European 5-Day Rule
Within the European Union, pet owners are required to travel within 5 days of their pets. This regulation complies with quarantine requirements and ensures that you can pick up your pets on time while avoiding additional taxes associated with commercial pet trade. It is essential to plan your journey accordingly, taking into consideration the specific needs of your furry companions.
It can be tricky to arrange flights where you and your pet get to fly together. At Ferndale, our experts have years of experience in booking flights for pets and will help you every step of the way. We understand the best pet-friendly airlines and their specifical regulations, so you can relax and let us take care of the details.
What Should I Know About Owning Pets in Greece?
Overall, Greece is a remarkably pet-friendly country. However, the summer heat can be intense, necessitating careful consideration of your pets’ coat length and ensuring they stay adequately hydrated.
For the majority of the year, the weather is pleasant enough to dine outside, and public transportation permits small dogs and cats on board as long as they are carried. Consequently, you can enjoy the company of your pets in most places you visit. They are even permitted on many beaches, although swimming in the sea may be restricted, and it is important to monitor your dog’s behaviour.
However, one significant issue to be aware of is the high number of stray cats found on the streets, beaches, and outside restaurants. If you have a dog that is not particularly fond of cats, walking around could present challenges.
In the case of cats, it is crucial to keep them as indoor pets. Allowing them to roam outside may expose them to fights with strays, potential illness, or even mistreatment by locals who might mistake them for strays themselves. In certain areas of Greece, cats are unfortunately regarded as pests.
In Greece, approximately 14% of households own a dog, while 13% have a cat, indicating that you will not be alone in your choice to have pets accompany you.
Banned Dog Breeds in Greece
While most dogs are welcome in Greece, it’s important to note that Greece has several banned breeds of dogs. This is because they’re seen as dangerous breeds or fighting dogs. If you own any of these breeds, your dog, regrettably, will not be permitted to travel with you:
- Pit Bull Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Rottweiler
- Akita Inu
- Tosa Inu
- English Bull Terrier
Seek Assistance from our Professional Pet Relocator Service
Embarking on pet travel for the first time can feel overwhelming, especially with the multitude of other considerations during this period. To alleviate concerns regarding your pets’ journey or the necessary documentation for travel, it is highly recommended to seek guidance from our esteemed colleagues at Ferndale, a professional pet relocation company. We are here to support you throughout this process, so please reach out to us today for assistance.
