Italy

General

The dog or cat must be identified by means of a microchip and must have a European passport.

Vaccinations

The dog or cat must be vaccinated against rabies. The first vaccination must be given at least 21 days before departure, and must be repeated within the validity period. A vaccination after this period is considered a first vaccination and is only valid again after 21 days.

A puppy/kitten must be at least 12 weeks old when receiving its first rabies vaccination, which means they can only cross the border from the age of 15 weeks.

Transportation

The dog or cat must not interfere with the driver and must be protected against sudden movements or in case of an accident. This can be achieved through a securely fastened car crate, a special harness attached to the seat belt, or a closed luggage compartment with a safety net or barrier.

Leash requirement

A fixed leash with a maximum length of 1.50 meters must always be used. This requirement applies in urban areas and all public spaces, except for specific off-leash dog areas designated by municipalities.

Muzzle

An owner or handler must always carry a muzzle (rigid or soft) with them. The dog is not required to wear it by default, but it must be applied in two situations: when there is a risk to the safety of people or other animals, or when requested by the competent authorities.

Traveling with more than 5 animals

When traveling with more than five animals, they must undergo a clinical examination, and their passport must include an additional certificate issued by the official veterinarian of the country of departure. The animals will then be subject to commercial transportation regulations.

The non-commercial transportation rules still apply when transporting more than five animals for participation in competitions, exhibitions, sporting events, or training, as long as the animals are older than 6 months and the owner can provide written proof of participation.

  • Microchip + EU passport
  • Rabies vaccination (21d before travel)
  • Leash required in public (max 1.50m)
  • Must carry muzzle, use when required/requested
  • Safe transport required
  • > 5 animals: extra rules

Don’t forget to check the regulations for all the countries you’ll be traveling through,
such as France, Switzerland, Austria or Slovenia.

Source(s): Ministero della Salute, Ayvens, Ordinanza del Ministro della salute 6 agosto 2013

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