Relocating with the family? Don't forget the fluffy members

At Triennial Properties we understand that pets are an integral part of your family, and we want to ensure that you have all the information you need to make their journey to this beautiful country as smooth as possible. Portugal is a paradise for pets, with vast unspoiled natural spaces away from densely populated areas, providing the ideal environment for your furry companions to roam freely.

When it comes to bringing your pets to Portugal, you must adhere to specific regulations. If you are moving your pet from an EU country or a non-EU country, EU rules apply. The primary requirement is vaccination against rabies, which must be documented in your pet's passport or an animal health certificate. All dogs, cats, and ferrets travelling across EU borders must be microchipped, and this should be done before administering the rabies vaccination.

Your pet must also have a Rabies Certificate signed by a vet, and they should be at least 12 weeks old before receiving the rabies vaccination. After the vaccination, there's a 21-day waiting period before your pet can enter Portugal. Pets can travel with either a one-year or three-year vaccine, provided the three-year vaccine was administered less than a year before travel. If you're coming from an 'unlisted country,' a blood test for your pet may be necessary.

It's crucial for pet owners to arrive in Portugal within five days of their pets to avoid additional costs and different regulations associated with commercial moves. Furthermore, pets must enter Portugal through specific ports, including Lisbon, Oporto, Faro, Funchal, Ponta Delgada, or Terceira Island.

Regarding pet travel from the UK, pet passports are no longer valid. Instead, pets from the UK can travel to Portugal and the EU with an animal health certificate (AHC), provided they are microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. This certificate is valid for four months, allowing a single trip into the EU and re-entry to Great Britain.

For UK citizens residing in the EU, EU-issued pet passports can be used to travel to the UK and return to the EU.

If you're bringing pets from non-EU countries, they must be accompanied by a health certificate completed by a veterinarian within ten days of travel, with some exceptions for specific countries.

When it comes to pet transport to Portugal, whether you choose to drive, fly, or use a pet transport company, having the correct paperwork in advance is essential. We can provide you with a list of regulated pet transporters if needed.

Once you and your pets are in Portugal, there are certain local regulations to be aware of. As of October 25^th, 2019, it's mandatory to register your dogs, cats, and ferrets on a new single database, costing €2.50 per pet. This database contains information about the animal, owner, and vaccine data, helping prevent abandonment and reunite lost pets with their owners.

Keep in mind that there are restrictions on where dogs are allowed in Portugal, including public buildings, public transport, some beaches, and restaurants. However, guide dogs are exempt from these restrictions.

When it comes to diseases and precautions for your pet in Portugal, be aware of Leishmaniasis, the Processionary Pine Caterpillar, heartworm disease, and ticks. Consult with local veterinarians to ensure your pet is adequately protected and seek their advice on preventative treatments.

With numerous veterinaries across the Algarve, most of which speak English, you have access to professional care for your pets. Additionally, pet food stores and shops selling pet accessories are readily available, ensuring your pets have everything they need.

Now, armed with this information, we hope you and your furry friends can enjoy all that Portugal has to offer to the fullest. If you have any questions or need assistance in your move to the Algarve, please feel free to reach out to us.