QuestionI am about to travel to Munich (Germany) from Dubai and would like to take my dog with me.
Can you please advise what documentation I need for both authorities (Munich & Dubai)?
Thanks
AnswerHi Barbara,
To answer your question you'll need to go directly to the governing authority web pages for Germany that details the regulations for importing pets to Germany. You can find links to most countries at
http://www.dogtravelcompany.net/Country_Regulations.html
The German Government has set up the following website that details the specific requirements for entry into Germany for domestic pets (dogs, cats & Ferrets)
http://www.germany.info/Vertretung/usa/en/04__Legal/02__Directory__Services/06__...
If you wish to bring a cat or dog into Germany, the animal must have been vaccinated for rabies at least 30 days but no more than 12 months prior to its entry. Proof of examination must be presented at the border.
Animals must now have an ISO compatible microchip prior to entering Germany. The other option is to have an AVID or Home Again microchip and have a personal scanner to scan and prove the animal is chipped at customs.
For travel between European Union countries, the pets must now have a passport, issued by a licensed veterinarian.
The last requirement is a bilingual health certificate. The health certificate will have the rabies vaccination information, the microchip information, a description of the animal and contact information for the owner. This must be filled out, signed and stamped by an authorized state vet in your country.
If you live in rented quarters in Germany you must have the permission of the landlord before keeping a pet, and, as in the U.S., dogs must be licensed. Cats need no license. Check with the authorities for rules regarding other pets.
Certain breeds of dogs present special problems. The rules vary from state to state in Germany, but most consider Pit Bulls, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers too dangerous. Their import is banned. Several of the states, including Bavaria, Brandenburg and North Rhine-Westphalia, also have what they consider a Category 2 Kampfhund, and this includes the Rottweiler.
There is no outright ban on the import of Rottweilers, but they must be submitted to a viciousness test. If they pass the test they are treated like any other dog. But if they fail they are subject to the same rules as the Pit Bulls and Terriers. If they are not outright banned from the state they face a high licensing fee, must be neutered and must be muzzled and kept on a leash whenever they are off the owner's property.
For more detailed information on which breeds may be banned and in which states the ban is effective it would be wise to contact a specialist in importing pets. You can also go to www.zoll.de/english_version/a0_passenger_traffic/e0_vub/h0_dangerous_ dogs/index.html for a detailed list of banned breeds and other information about restrictions on dangerous dogs.
Hopefully this information helps.
Sincerely,
Chris Shoulet
DogTravel COmpany
www.dogtravelcompany.com
