Moving with a Pet to Ireland

Moving to Ireland with a pet involves a series of regulations and requirements that are essential for ensuring the health and safety of your animal companion as well as the local fauna. Ireland has specific rules regarding the importation of pets, including mandatory vaccinations, microchipping, and paperwork. While quarantine is not typically required for pets entering from certain countries, it's crucial to understand the specific conditions that apply to your situation. It's not uncommon for people in Ireland to have pets, and as an expat or digital nomad, you'll find that the country is quite pet-friendly, with many accommodations for animals. However, there are certain breeds of dogs that are subject to specific regulations. In the following sections, we'll delve into the details of bringing your furry friend along on your Irish adventure.

Can I bring my dog to Ireland?

Yes, you can bring your dog to Ireland, but there are strict regulations you must follow. Your dog must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have a pet passport or third-country official veterinary certificate. Dogs from certain countries must also have a tapeworm treatment. It's important to check the most current regulations as they can change and may vary depending on the country you are traveling from.

Can I bring my cat to Ireland?

Similar to dogs, cats can also be brought into Ireland. The requirements for cats include a microchip, a rabies vaccination, and the appropriate documentation, such as a pet passport for EU citizens or an official veterinary certificate for those coming from outside the EU. As with dogs, it's essential to verify the latest requirements before planning your move.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into Ireland

Ireland has restrictions on certain breeds of dogs that are considered dangerous and are therefore prohibited from entering the country. These breeds include the American Pit Bull Terrier, English Bull Terrier, Akita, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and a few others. Additionally, hybrid animals such as wolf-dog crosses are not permitted. For other types of pets, it's best to consult the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for specific regulations.

How do I bring my pet to Ireland?

To bring your pet to Ireland, you must ensure they are microchipped with a 15-digit ISO 11784 compliant microchip and vaccinated against rabies. The vaccination must occur after the microchip is implanted. Your pet will need a pet passport or an official veterinary certificate if coming from outside the EU. The certificate should confirm the microchipping date and the validity of the rabies vaccination. For dogs, a tapeworm treatment is required (except for those coming directly from Finland, Malta, Norway, or the UK). There is no mandatory quarantine for pets entering from the EU and other listed countries, provided all conditions are met. However, pets arriving from unlisted non-EU countries may be subject to quarantine if they do not meet the import requirements.

Upon Arriving in Ireland

Once your pet has arrived in Ireland, there are a few steps you should take to ensure their smooth integration into their new environment. While there's no need for a specific pet license in Ireland, it's important to update your pet's microchip information with your new address. Finding a veterinarian is straightforward, as there are many clinics across the country. Registering with a local vet should be done promptly after arrival. Dogs and cats are generally well-liked in Ireland, and you'll find dog parks and walking trails where you can exercise your pet. It's also advisable to familiarize yourself with local regulations regarding pets in public spaces and residential areas to ensure you and your pet can enjoy Ireland without any issues.