How to take your dog to France

travelling with four-legged friends from the UK to France

If you’ve ever dreamt of travelling a little further afield with your four-legged friend, we sat down with Amy Anson, owner of Rediat Cor in Hautefort, to ask for her top tips on how to take your dog to France. It can initially seem somewhat daunting but with careful planning and preparation, travelling abroad together can be a wonderful experience for both your and your canine companion.

Hi Amy, what’s the first thing to you need to do once you’ve found and booked your dream dog friendly holiday home in France?

Post-Breixt, things are slightly different. If your dog has travelled abroad before and has a pet passport issued within the EU, it will still be valid as long as your dog’s vaccinations are up to date. However, if your dog’s pet passport was issued in Great Britain, it will no longer be valid unfortunately. Instead, you’ll now require an AHC – an Animal Health Certificate.

To get an AHC, simply book an appointment with your vet. You’ll need take take proof of your dog’s microchipping date and also their vaccination history. On average, an AHC will cost between £100 – £150 which will include the consultation and the time taken to review all the paperwork. However, this will not include the additional costs of any vaccinations needed. It’s also worth noting that dogs younger than 15 weeks old cannot enter France.

Do dogs need specific vaccinations to travel to France?

Rabies vaccinations need to be done at least 21 days before travelling. Ticks, fleas and sandflies can be an issue at certain times of the year in France but there are a variety of options including drops, collars and natural remedies available – flea collars are easily obtainable in French pharmacies and supermarkets and so much cheaper than in the UK. Check with your vet when you pop to get your AHC. They will have up to date information and recommendations to ensure your dog stays safe.

Are dogs allowed on ferries?

Taking dogs to France by air is quite complicated as airlines have strict rules, regulations and restrictions. That’s why many visitors travel by car to Rediat Cor. I’ve only heard positive feedback about the facilities on the ferries but do read the individual requirements for the travel company that you’re planning to use as they can differ.

Or would you recommend travelling via Eurotunnel with your dog?

Our personnel preference is the Eurotunnel as your dog can stay with you in the car and it is so quick – just 35 minutes. Check your dog in at least one hour before boarding and make use of the dedicated pet exercise area so they can stretch their legs and get a bit of fresh air before their journey.

How easy is it to travel around France with a dog?

France is a great place to travel with dogs. Well behaved dogs are welcome almost everywhere and if you wish to split your journey there are plenty of hotel and B&B options that will allow you to stay overnight with your pets. Motorways have Aires (areas of service) almost every 15 minutes providing picnic spaces and grass sections to give everyone a bit of fresh air and a rest from the car.

How about cars? Do you need to have a sticker or carry anything in particular? Are there any requirements different to the UK?

Yes, firstly you must be 18 or over to drive in France, and make sure you have your UK driving licence with you too. You also need a UK sticker to display in the rear windscreen and your motor insurance certificate. You can be fined if you don’t have a warning triangle and reflective jacket for use in a breakdown so definitely pop both in your boot. Tolls are quite common so have a credit card to hand and familiarise yourself with some of the popular speed limits and road signs before you leave. Do I need to mention that people drive on the right-hand side of the road in France?

Do dogs need to visit a vet in France prior to travelling back to the UK?

Yes, your pets need to visit a vet between 24 hours and 5 days before you travel back to the UK. If you are planning to return to the UK soon after your stay at Rediat Cor and within this timeframe, I can pass on the details of our local vets. The vet needs to carry out a quick health check and provide a worming tablet. Both will then be recorded on your AHC for the journey home.

What would you recommend packing for a holiday with your four-legged friend?

Here’s a check list:

• AHC, medicines and tick removing products.
• Pet insurance and useful contacts and addresses – it’s best to research vets in advance in case you need to call one in an emergency.
• Collar and name tag – don’t forget to check these are up to date and visible and ideally include your mobile number.
• A lead – lots of French tourist attractions are dog friendly, but very often require a short lead in order to keep dogs under close control.
• Bed basket, favourite toys and blankets to help your dog feel at home.
• Bowls and food – dog food is obviously readily available in France but I know that some pooches are picky.
• And don’t forget supplies, treats and travel bowls for your journey.
• Doggy towels, poop bags, and potentially stain removers and pet hair rollers … just in case.
• Finally, a first aid kit. They’re always handy to carry in the car or pop in your bag.

Any other top tips to share?

Wherever you’re staying in France, make the Office de Tourisme one of your first stops. Pick up a local promenades and randonnées guide as they contain lots of ideas for local dog walks.

A huge thank you to Amy for sharing her top tips on how take your dog to France. Take a look at her beautiful property, Rediat Cor in Hautefort. If you’ve ever dreamt of immersing yourself in genuine French village life, it’s definitely the dog friendly destination for you.