Moving to Ireland with Pets: Complete Guide for Pet Owners

Moving to a new country challenges everyone in your family, including four-legged members. Ireland welcomes pets from around the world, but the process involves careful planning, proper documentation, and understanding of Irish regulations and culture around animals. Whether you’re bringing a dog, cat, or other companion animal, this guide will help you navigate the complexities of pet relocation and ensure your animal settles successfully into Irish life.

Understanding Irish Pet Import Requirements

The Pet Travel Scheme

Ireland participates in the EU Pet Travel Scheme, which establishes requirements for bringing pets into the country. These regulations aim to prevent the introduction of rabies and other diseases while facilitating legitimate pet travel. The requirements vary depending on your origin country and your pet’s species.

For pets traveling from EU countries, Northern Ireland, or approved third countries (including the UK since Brexit), the process remains relatively straightforward provided you meet all requirements. Pets from non-approved countries face more stringent requirements and potentially longer preparation timelines. Understanding which category your origin country falls into determines your preparation timeline and required procedures.

The Pet Travel Scheme covers dogs, cats, and ferrets. Other pets—including rabbits, birds, rodents, and reptiles—follow different regulations with varying requirements. This guide focuses primarily on dogs and cats, as they represent the vast majority of pet relocations, though we’ll note where requirements differ for other animals.

Microchipping Requirements

All pets entering Ireland must have ISO-compliant microchips implanted before any other documentation steps. The microchip must be readable by compatible scanners used by Irish authorities. This permanent identification links your pet to all subsequent documentation and vaccinations.

Your veterinarian must record the microchip number in all documentation. If your pet received vaccinations or treatments before microchipping, those don’t count toward Irish import requirements—all qualifying procedures must occur after microchip implantation. This sequencing matters; failing to follow proper order can delay or prevent your pet’s entry.

Keep your microchip documentation accessible. Irish customs officials or airline staff may scan your pet’s chip to verify it matches documentation. Some older microchips use non-standard frequencies that Irish scanners cannot read; in such cases, you must provide your own compatible scanner or have your pet re-chipped with an ISO-compliant device.

Rabies Vaccination and Blood Testing

Rabies vaccination represents the most critical health requirement for pet entry. Dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel. The vaccination must occur after microchipping—not before. Your veterinarian records the rabies vaccine details in your pet’s documentation, including vaccine type, date, and batch number.

Pets from approved countries (EU, UK, Northern Ireland) generally don’t require rabies antibody blood tests unless previously refused entry or failed to meet requirements. However, pets from non-approved countries must undergo rabies antibody testing at least 30 days after vaccination and at least 3 months before travel. This blood test verifies the vaccination produced sufficient antibodies.

The three-month waiting period after positive blood test results means pets from non-approved countries require at least four months of preparation before travel. This timeline cannot be shortened or accelerated regardless of circumstances. Plan accordingly if moving from countries like India, China, or most African nations that aren’t on the approved list.

Pet Passports and Health Certificates

Pets from EU countries, Northern Ireland, or the UK require an EU Pet Passport or UK Pet Travel Document. This passport format standardizes documentation and simplifies movement within the EU pet travel area. Your veterinarian completes the passport, recording all qualifying procedures and vaccinations. The passport remains valid as long as rabies vaccinations remain current.

Pets from non-EU countries require official veterinary certificates rather than passports. These certificates must be completed by authorized government veterinarians in your origin country and typically require endorsement by relevant agricultural or veterinary authorities. The certificate format follows specific templates that your origin country’s authorities should provide.

Health certificates typically remain valid for only 10 days from veterinary inspection to entry into Ireland, creating tight timelines for international pet moves. This short validity period means you cannot complete paperwork too far in advance of travel. Coordinate carefully with your veterinarian and travel arrangements to ensure documentation timing works.

Tapeworm Treatment Requirements

Dogs entering Ireland from outside the UK, Northern Ireland, Finland, Norway, or Malta must receive treatment for Echinococcus multilocularis tapeworm. This treatment must occur between 24 and 120 hours before scheduled entry time. Your veterinarian records this treatment in your pet’s passport or health certificate.

The narrow treatment window creates logistical challenges. Treatment too early (more than 120 hours before entry) doesn’t count; too late (less than 24 hours), and the treatment hasn’t had time to work. Calculate your entry time carefully, accounting for potential flight delays that might push you outside the valid window.

This tapeworm requirement applies even if your dog has never had tapeworm or regularly receives deworm medication. The specific treatment and timing requirements must be followed exactly. Keep treatment documentation accessible for inspection at Irish customs.

Planning Your Pet’s Journey

Choosing Transportation Methods

Most pets traveling to Ireland arrive via one of three methods: aircraft passenger cabin, aircraft cargo hold, or ferry as vehicle passenger. Each option presents advantages and challenges depending on your circumstances, pet size, and origin location.

Small dogs and cats (typically under 8kg including carrier) may travel in-cabin on some airlines. This option provides maximum oversight and minimizes separation anxiety for both pet and owner. However, airline cabin space for pets is limited and often books months in advance. Additionally, some routes don’t permit in-cabin pets regardless of size.

Larger pets typically travel in aircraft cargo holds in approved pet containers. While this sounds alarming, properly regulated pet cargo travel operates safely for most healthy animals. Airlines maintain cargo hold temperature and pressure, and many pets travel this way without incident. However, certain breeds (particularly brachycephalic dogs and cats) face increased risks due to breathing difficulties at altitude.

Ferry travel from Britain or France allows pets to remain in vehicles throughout the journey. This option minimizes stress for pets uncomfortable in carriers or with previous trauma around crates. However, ferry travel requires significantly more time and works only from specific European departure points. Some ferry companies offer pet-friendly cabin spaces, though these book quickly during peak seasons.

Airline Regulations and Pet Carriers

Airlines maintain individual policies regarding pet travel, and these policies change frequently. Research your specific airline’s requirements early in planning. Factors to verify include: whether your pet qualifies for in-cabin travel based on size and weight, carrier dimension requirements, breed restrictions, health documentation requirements beyond Irish legal minimums, and booking procedures.

Some airlines banned certain breeds outright, typically brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs and cats prone to breathing difficulties. Breeds commonly restricted include pugs, bulldogs, Persian cats, boxers, and similar breeds. If you own a restricted breed, your airline options narrow considerably or require specific accommodations.

Pet carriers must meet both airline and Irish import requirements. For cargo travel, containers must follow IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards. These regulations specify minimum dimensions based on pet size, ventilation requirements, door specifications, and structural standards. Purchase IATA-compliant containers or verify your existing carrier meets standards—non-compliant carriers will be refused at departure.

For in-cabin travel, soft-sided carriers typically work best, fitting under the seat in front of you. Confirm exact dimension requirements with your airline. Your pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the carrier. Airlines check compliance at boarding; oversized carriers or improperly sized pets may be refused travel.

Preparing Your Pet Psychologically

Pet relocation involves stress for animals regardless of how carefully you plan. Preparation can significantly reduce this stress and help your pet adapt to travel requirements. Begin carrier training weeks or months before travel. Place treats inside carriers, feed meals inside them, and reward calm behavior around carriers. Your pet should view carriers as safe spaces rather than punishment.

For pets traveling in cargo, consider crate training even if they’ve never used crates before. The cargo container becomes their safe space during travel. Practice leaving your pet in carriers or crates for progressively longer periods, simulating travel conditions. Never use carriers or crates as punishment, as this creates negative associations that intensify travel anxiety.

Some pets benefit from anxiety-reducing strategies before travel. Discuss options with your veterinarian, which might include prescription anxiety medications, pheromone treatments, or natural calming supplements. However, avoid giving medication to pets in cargo holds without explicit veterinary guidance, as some medications can complicate altitude-related physiological changes.

Maintain normal routines as much as possible leading up to travel. Feed regular meals at regular times. Continue exercise schedules. Your pet picks up on your stress, so remaining calm yourself helps keep your pet calmer. Save significant routine changes for after arrival rather than implementing them during the already stressful move period.

Managing Travel Day Logistics

On travel day, plan more time than you think necessary. Arrive at airports or ferry terminals early, allowing buffer time for documentation checks, unexpected delays, or issues with your pet’s carrier or behavior. Rushing increases stress for everyone, including your pet.

Feed your pet a light meal 4-6 hours before travel rather than immediately before departure. This reduces likelihood of travel sickness. Ensure access to water up until check-in, then provide ice cubes rather than water in travel containers—ice provides hydration without spilling during transport.

Exercise your pet before departure. A tired pet typically travels more calmly than one with excess energy. However, avoid exhausting your pet to the point of stress. A good walk or play session helps, but don’t overdo it.

For cargo hold travel, attach identification to your pet’s carrier in addition to airline tags. Include your name, destination address in Ireland, phone numbers, and a backup contact. If your pet has medical issues, attach instructions and medications to the carrier exterior. Include a recent photo of your pet in case of any separation.

Navigating Irish Customs and Entry

What to Expect at Irish Ports of Entry

Irish customs officials conduct checks to verify pets meet entry requirements. For compliant pets with proper documentation, this process typically moves quickly. Have all documentation easily accessible: pet passport or health certificate, rabies vaccination records, microchip documentation, and any additional veterinary records.

Officials may ask questions about your pet’s health history, origin, and purpose of travel. Answer honestly and completely. Discrepancies between your verbal responses and documentation can trigger additional scrutiny or quarantine. If you’re unsure about any requirement, admit uncertainty rather than guessing—officials appreciate honesty and can clarify requirements.

Physical examination may occur, though this isn’t standard for all entries. If examined, officials check for signs of illness, verify microchip matches documentation, and confirm the pet matches description in documents. Keep your pet calm during this process; frightened or aggressive behavior can complicate proceedings.

Most pets meeting all requirements clear customs quickly and proceed directly to their new homes. However, pets with documentation issues, signs of illness, or failed microchip scans may face quarantine or even refusal of entry and return to origin country. This worst-case scenario underscores the importance of meticulous preparation and documentation accuracy.

Quarantine Requirements

Ireland maintains strict regulations against rabies, a disease currently not present in the country. Consequently, pets failing to meet entry requirements may face quarantine in approved facilities at the owner’s expense. Quarantine duration depends on the specific compliance failure but can extend for months in serious cases.

Quarantine situations typically arise from: incomplete or incorrect documentation, expired vaccinations or health certificates, failed microchip identification, signs of illness upon arrival, or arrival from high-risk countries without proper preparation. Nearly all quarantine situations are preventable through proper planning and documentation.

Approved quarantine facilities in Ireland meet specific standards for animal care. However, quarantine represents stressful, expensive, and entirely avoidable complications. Costs for quarantine accommodation, veterinary care, and monitoring fall entirely to pet owners and can easily reach thousands of euros.

Pets in quarantine receive regular veterinary checks and appropriate care. However, owner visitation may be restricted or prohibited depending on the quarantine reason. This separation distresses both pets and owners. Preventing quarantine through meticulous compliance with all requirements should be your top priority.

Common Documentation Errors

Even experienced pet travelers sometimes make documentation mistakes that complicate entry. Common errors include: vaccination dates that don’t allow sufficient time before travel (rabies vaccination must be at least 21 days before entry), microchip implantation dates after vaccination dates (microchipping must precede all qualifying procedures), illegible or incomplete veterinary signatures or stamps, expired health certificates (particularly relevant for non-EU pets), and missing tapeworm treatment documentation for dogs from relevant countries.

Double-check all documentation well before travel. Verify dates, signatures, stamps, and microchip numbers. Ensure your pet’s description in documents matches their actual appearance—color, marking, and breed details matter. Have your regular veterinarian and a trusted friend independently review all documents for errors or omissions.

Keep copies of all documentation separate from originals. If original documents are lost or damaged during travel, copies can facilitate smoother resolution. Digital photos of all documents stored in cloud storage provide additional backup.

For more information on understanding Irish regulations and bureaucracy, see our guide on Irish Bureaucracy and Paperwork.

Housing Considerations for Pet Owners

Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodation

Ireland’s housing market presents challenges even for people without pets. Adding animals to your accommodation search complicates matters significantly. Many Irish landlords maintain “no pets” policies, limiting your housing options considerably. However, pet-friendly accommodation does exist, particularly in detached houses rather than apartments.

Start your housing search early and be upfront about pets in all communications with landlords or letting agencies. Some landlords who officially maintain “no pets” policies make exceptions for responsible pet owners willing to pay additional deposits or higher rent. Offering to pay extra pet deposit, providing references from previous landlords about your pet’s behavior, or agreeing to professional carpet cleaning upon move-out can persuade reluctant landlords.

Pet-friendly accommodation websites and Facebook groups specifically help pet owners find suitable rentals. These specialized resources save time by connecting you with landlords already open to pets. However, competition for pet-friendly properties remains intense, so act quickly when you find suitable options.

For detailed information on finding accommodation in Ireland, see our guide on Finding Accommodation in Ireland.

Negotiating Pet Deposits and Terms

When you find pet-friendly accommodation, expect additional costs beyond standard deposits and rent. Pet deposits typically range from one to two months’ additional rent, held as security against pet-related damages. Some landlords charge monthly “pet rent” instead of or in addition to deposits—typically €20-50 per month per pet.

Negotiate pet terms before signing lease agreements. Get everything in writing, including: specific amount and conditions of pet deposits, whether deposits are refundable and under what conditions, any restrictions on pet size, breed, or number, requirements for pet insurance or veterinary records, and conditions for outdoor access to gardens or yards.

Read lease agreements carefully regarding pets. Some leases include clauses requiring immediate removal of pets if they cause noise complaints or property damage. Understand eviction risks related to pet behavior and take appropriate steps to ensure your pet won’t create problems for neighbors or landlords.

Maintain your rental property meticulously when you have pets. Regular cleaning, prompt repair of any pet-related damages, and good neighbor relations all help demonstrate you’re a responsible pet owner. This positive track record helps when you eventually need references for future accommodation.

Housing Alternatives for Pet Owners

If traditional rental accommodation proves impossible with pets, consider alternative housing options. House-sitting through platforms like TrustedHousesitters connects pet owners with accommodation in exchange for caring for homeowners’ pets while they travel. This arrangement works particularly well if you’re comfortable with dogs or cats, as most house-sits involve animal care.

Some Irish families seek au pairs or household help willing to provide pet care in exchange for accommodation and modest payment. While this arrangement requires significant commitment beyond just housing, it can solve accommodation challenges while building Irish connections.

Long-term serviced apartments occasionally accept pets, though costs typically exceed traditional rental accommodation. These can serve as temporary solutions while you search for permanent pet-friendly housing. Similarly, some hotels and guest houses accept extended stays with pets, though this represents the most expensive option.

Ultimately, owning a home rather than renting eliminates pet-related housing restrictions. If your move to Ireland is long-term and you have financial means, purchasing property might be more straightforward than navigating the pet-friendly rental market. For information on home buying, see our guide on Cost of Living in Ireland.

Veterinary Care and Pet Health in Ireland

Finding a Veterinarian

Establish relationship with an Irish veterinarian soon after arrival. Your pet needs regular care, and having an established veterinary relationship before emergencies arise ensures smooth access to care when needed. Ask for recommendations from neighbors, work colleagues, or online pet owner communities. Location matters—choose a practice convenient to your home for easy access during emergencies.

Most Irish towns have at least one veterinary practice, while cities offer multiple options including specialized practices for exotic pets, orthopedics, or emergency care. Verify your chosen practice’s hours, emergency coverage arrangements, and whether they accept walk-in appointments or require scheduling.

Initial veterinary visits typically involve health assessment, vaccination review, and establishing your pet in their system. Bring all documentation from your origin country including vaccination records, health certificates, and any records of previous illnesses or procedures. This medical history helps your Irish vet provide appropriate care.

Vaccination and Preventative Care

While your pet’s rabies vaccination must be current for Irish entry, Irish veterinarians recommend additional vaccinations depending on lifestyle and risk factors. Dogs typically receive vaccinations for parvovirus, distemper, leptospirosis, and kennel cough. Cats need protection against feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, and panleukopenia, with outdoor cats also needing feline leukemia vaccination.

Irish veterinarians follow vaccination protocols that may differ from your home country’s standard practices. Some vaccines commonly given elsewhere aren’t routinely administered in Ireland due to low disease prevalence. Conversely, leptospirosis vaccination, less common in some countries, is highly recommended in Ireland due to disease presence.

Parasite prevention remains important in Ireland. Fleas and ticks are common, particularly in warmer months. Regular preventative treatments protect your pet and prevent household infestations. Heartworm, while present in Ireland, occurs at much lower rates than in some countries, but prevention may still be recommended depending on your pet’s risk factors.

Irish veterinarians typically recommend annual check-ups for healthy adult pets, with more frequent visits for senior animals or those with chronic conditions. These preventative visits catch health issues early and maintain up-to-date vaccination status. Costs for routine veterinary care in Ireland run moderate by international standards, though emergency care or specialized procedures can be expensive.

Pet Insurance Considerations

Pet insurance isn’t mandatory in Ireland but provides financial protection against unexpected veterinary costs. Emergency surgery or treatment for serious illness can easily cost thousands of euros—amounts that strain most budgets. Insurance policies typically cost €20-60 monthly depending on pet species, age, breed, and coverage level.

Irish pet insurance operates similarly to health insurance elsewhere. You pay premiums monthly, then claim reimbursement for eligible veterinary expenses. Policies vary significantly in coverage, with some covering accidents only while others include illness, routine care, and alternative therapies. Pre-existing conditions typically aren’t covered, so obtaining insurance soon after arrival ensures maximum coverage.

Major Irish pet insurance providers include Allianz, Petinsurance.ie, and Lifetime Pet Cover. Compare policies carefully, examining not just monthly costs but also coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions, and claim procedures. Some policies reimburse percentage of costs while others pay up to specific limits per condition.

Read policy terms carefully before purchasing. Some policies exclude certain breeds prone to specific conditions, refuse coverage for pets over certain ages, or exclude specific conditions common to your pet’s breed. Understanding these limitations prevents disappointment when filing claims.

Irish Pet Culture and Regulations

Leash Laws and Public Space Rules

Irish law requires dogs to be under effective control in public spaces. In many areas, this means dogs must be on leashes except in designated off-leash areas. Parks often include fenced dog exercise areas where animals can run freely, but general park areas typically require leashes.

Some beaches and public areas restrict dogs entirely or permit them only during specific seasons or times of day. Summer beach bans on dogs are common to protect swimmers and beachgoers. Check local regulations for areas you frequent—Dublin, Cork, Galway, and other cities maintain specific rules about where dogs are permitted.

Dog fouling laws require owners to clean up after their pets in public spaces. Failure to clean up waste can result in on-the-spot fines up to €150. Always carry waste bags when walking dogs and dispose of waste properly in designated bins or bring it home for disposal.

Controlling aggressive or dangerous dogs represents serious legal responsibility in Ireland. If your dog bites someone or behaves aggressively, you may face criminal charges, civil liability, and potentially orders to muzzle or destroy the animal. Training and proper socialization help prevent such incidents.

Licensing and Registration

All dogs in Ireland must be licensed annually. The dog license costs €20 per dog or €140 for a lifetime license (valid until the dog dies). Additionally, dogs must be microchipped and registered on an approved microchip database. These requirements apply to all dogs over four months old.

Obtain your dog license at your local post office or online through Pet License System. You’ll need your dog’s microchip number, so ensure you have this information before attempting to license. Failure to license dogs can result in fines up to €5,000 or imprisonment up to three months for repeat offenses.

Cat licensing doesn’t exist in Ireland, though microchipping remains highly recommended for identification purposes if your cat goes missing. Indoor cats face lower loss risk, but even indoor-only cats sometimes escape, making microchipping worthwhile.

Some breeds face additional restrictions in Ireland. While breed-specific legislation bans certain breeds considered dangerous, enforcement focuses more on individual animal behavior than pure breed identification. However, if you own restricted breeds like pit bull terriers, Japanese Tosa, or Argentinian Mastiff, additional regulations including mandatory muzzling and specific insurance requirements apply.

Cultural Attitudes Toward Pets

Irish people generally love animals, and pets are common in Irish households. Dogs particularly feature prominently in Irish life, and many Irish people happily stop to pet and chat about dogs they encounter. This friendliness extends to creating welcoming environments for pets in many contexts.

Many Irish pubs allow dogs, particularly in less formal establishments. It’s always polite to ask before bringing your dog inside, but don’t be surprised to see other dogs relaxing under tables while their owners enjoy pints. Some cafes and restaurants also welcome dogs, particularly those with outdoor seating areas.

However, not everyone loves dogs or appreciates unleashed animals. Be mindful of people who seem nervous around your pet and keep your dog under control in crowded areas. Some people have genuine fear of dogs due to previous negative experiences; respect this by keeping distance when you notice discomfort.

Cats have more independent status in Irish culture. Outdoor cats roam freely in many Irish neighborhoods, and community cat colonies exist in some areas. If you’re bringing a cat accustomed to outdoor access, understand that Irish roads, wildlife, and other cats present risks. Many veterinarians recommend keeping cats indoors or providing supervised outdoor access only.

For more information on integrating into Irish culture, see our guide on Irish Culture and Social Norms.

Settling Your Pet Into Irish Life

Managing the Adjustment Period

Moving stress affects pets similarly to how it affects people. Expect your animal to need adjustment time in your new Irish home. Common stress behaviors include: decreased appetite, excessive sleeping or conversely insomnia, hiding or withdrawal from interaction, house soiling accidents even in house-trained pets, and excessive vocalization or clinginess.

These behaviors typically resolve within weeks as your pet adjusts to new surroundings. However, you can help ease the transition. Maintain consistent routines as much as possible—feed at the same times, walk the same routes initially, and keep familiar toys and bedding available. Familiarity provides comfort during the transition.

Give your pet time to explore their new home gradually. Don’t expect immediate comfort in all areas. Some pets need days or weeks before feeling secure enough to explore fully. Allow them to proceed at their own pace rather than forcing interaction with new spaces.

Monitor your pet’s health carefully during adjustment periods. Stress can suppress immune systems, making pets more vulnerable to illness. Watch for signs of serious distress including refusing food for more than 24 hours, severe lethargy, vomiting or diarrhea, or signs of pain. Contact your veterinarian if concerns arise.

Weather and Climate Adjustments

Ireland’s mild but wet climate affects pets differently depending on their origin. Pets from hot climates often thrive in Ireland’s moderate temperatures, while those from dry climates need time to adjust to Ireland’s frequent rain. Your pet’s coat type, size, and breed all influence their weather tolerance.

Dogs still need regular exercise regardless of rain, and Irish rain occurs frequently. Invest in a good raincoat for your dog if they dislike wet weather. Towels kept by doors help dry muddy paws before tracking dirt throughout your home. Some dogs never learn to love rain, but consistent routines help them accept exercise happens rain or shine.

Irish winters, while mild, involve less daylight than many regions. This affects pet behavior similarly to how seasonal affective disorder affects humans. Ensure your pets get outdoor time during daylight hours when possible. Indoor enrichment activities become more important during dark winter months when outdoor exercise opportunities diminish.

Summer in Ireland rarely reaches temperatures requiring serious heat precautions, but occasional warm days do occur. Always provide fresh water and shade for outdoor pets. Never leave pets in vehicles even briefly—Ireland’s moderate temperatures can still create dangerous conditions in enclosed cars.

Building Irish Pet Social Networks

Pet ownership provides excellent opportunities for meeting people and building social networks in Ireland. Dog walking naturally creates interactions with other dog owners, and regular routes mean you’ll encounter the same people repeatedly, facilitating friendship development.

Irish cities offer various pet-related social opportunities. Dog training classes, agility courses, and behavior workshops provide structured activities while helping you meet other pet owners. Pet-friendly cafes and pubs create casual social settings. Online communities and Facebook groups connect pet owners for meetups, advice sharing, and support.

If your pet struggles with socialization or behavior issues in Ireland, professional help is available. Dog trainers, behavior consultants, and animal behaviorists operate throughout Ireland. Addressing problems early prevents them from becoming established patterns and helps your pet integrate successfully into Irish pet culture.

Special Considerations for Other Animals

Bringing Exotic Pets to Ireland

While this guide focuses primarily on dogs and cats, many people relocate with other types of pets. Requirements for rabbits, birds, rodents, and reptiles differ significantly from dog and cat regulations. Some exotic pets face import restrictions or require special permits.

Birds entering Ireland require health certificates confirming they’re free from avian diseases. Depending on species and origin country, quarantine periods may apply. Parrots and other psittacine birds face particularly strict regulations due to disease risks. Research requirements specific to your bird species well in advance.

Reptiles and amphibians face fewer health-related restrictions but may require permits depending on species. Endangered species listed under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) require special permits that can take months to obtain. Verify your pet’s legal status for import before planning your move.

Small mammals including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and similar pets generally face simpler import requirements than dogs and cats, though health certificates confirming disease-free status are typically necessary. Housing these animals during travel requires more careful planning, as airlines typically restrict small mammal transport more heavily than dog and cat travel.

Service and Assistance Animals

Service and assistance animals accompanying disabled handlers receive some regulatory accommodations. However, these animals must still meet standard health and vaccination requirements for Irish entry. There are no shortcuts around microchipping, rabies vaccination, or health certification even for working animals.

Under Irish law, assistance dogs have access rights to public spaces, transportation, and accommodations that normally don’t permit pets. However, you must be prepared to demonstrate your animal’s official status. Carry identification, certification, and documentation proving your dog’s training and your disability status.

Emotional support animals don’t enjoy the same legal protections in Ireland as trained service animals. Airlines, accommodations, and public spaces may refuse emotional support animals that aren’t trained service animals. If you rely on an emotional support animal, research access rights carefully and prepare alternative arrangements for situations where your animal may not be permitted.

Moving Forward

Relocating to Ireland with pets involves significant planning, costs, and stress. However, millions of pets have successfully made this journey, and with proper preparation, yours can too. Start planning as early as possible—particularly if coming from non-approved countries requiring blood tests and waiting periods. Work closely with qualified veterinarians in both your origin country and Ireland to ensure compliance with all requirements.

Remember that while regulations might seem onerous, they exist to protect Ireland’s disease-free status and the health of all animals in the country. Approaching requirements with patience and thoroughness serves both your pet’s interests and the broader Irish animal population.

Your pet provides companionship, comfort, and continuity during the significant life change of moving to a new country. The effort required to bring them safely to Ireland pays dividends in the emotional support they provide as you build your new life. Ireland’s pet-friendly culture, beautiful outdoor spaces, and welcoming attitude toward animals create excellent environments for pets to thrive once they’ve successfully made the journey.

For more information on settling into life in Ireland, see our guide on First Week in Ireland: Essential Tasks.