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Travelling with Pets

High Five

High Five, © colourbox.com

01.03.2021 - Article

Do you plan to travel with your pet(s) from the United States to Germany and need specific information about regulations and procedures? Below you will find basic information about various possible Scenarios.

These COVID-19 travel restrictions are subject to change without notice.

With a view to the complexity of travel regulations with pets, German Missions in the U.S. cannot give binding information. This notwithstanding, the following information with links and addresses may be helpful for planning purposes:

  • Every animal needs to be identified by a clearly readable tattoo or a microchip (this has been mandatory for newly identified animals since July 3, 2011).
  • Proof of valid immunization against rabies must be furnished in the animal health certificate. The period of validity of the immunization is based on the information provided by the manufacturer. A primary vaccination must be administered at least 21 days prior to crossing the border. The pet has to be microchipped before the rabies vaccination.
  • Entry is conditional on the animal being accompanied by a person. The accompanying person must provide a written declaration stating that the animal is not being moved for purposes of sale or a change of ownership.
  • The aforementioned conditions governing entry must be documented in an animal health certificate issued by an officially authorized veterinarian. In addition, the traveler must carry supporting documents such as a vaccination certificate.

Current regulations and further information can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture

and on the EU website.

The Veterinary Border Inspection Office of the State of Hesse at Frankfurt Airport provides information and assistance as well.

Further information about live animal export requirements, including a list of local veterinary service centers and an FAQs section, can be found on the USDA website

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