Regulations on entry with dogs, cats and ferrets into the European Union: are you planning to travel to Germany with your loved one or two? Make sure to make the right steps to allow yourself and your pet to travel without having any legal problem.
For the entry with dogs, cats and ferrets from non-EU countries (so-called third countries), the regulations of Regulation (EU) No 576/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council in conjunction with Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 577/2013 apply. The aim of these regulations is to protect against the introduction and spread of rabies.
The requirements for the health status of the animals are basically based on the rabies situation of both the third country of origin and the Member State of destination in the EU.
A maximum of five of these pet animals may be carried per person. The animals must not be intended to change owners. By way of derogation, the maximum number of five pet animals may be exceeded if the animals are moved for the purpose of participating in or training for competitions, exhibitions and sporting events (not for commercial purposes).
These animals must be at least six months old and there must be written proof that they are registered for one of the events mentioned.
In all other cases, the regulations for trade in animals apply. More detailed information can be found in the Regulation on Intra-Community Movement, Import and Transit of Animals and Goods. In Germany, the federal states (Oberste Veterinärbehörden der Bundesländer) are responsible for the implementation and monitoring of this European Regulation.
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