If you want to travel with your pet over the holidays or if you’re moving to or from Spain, it is much easier to travel either by car or by ferry than by plane within Europe.

These days more and more ferry companies are allowing pets on their routes, making it a great option to holiday or travel with your furry friend in a comfortable way. 

Even if you plan on taking your car to and from Spain, going on a ferry will make it a lot easier than being stuck in a small vehicle. 

There are several options for travelling with pets by ferry either to Spanish islands or abroad. 

EXPLAINED: The rules for moving to Spain with your pet

Travel to and from Spain’s islands

Within Spain there are several routes that allow pets on board, mostly to the Balearic Islands. These include Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona to Mahón in Menorca, Valencia to Ibiza, Valencia to Palma and Dénia to Formentera.

There are also ferries that allow pets on routes to and from Morocco including Tarifa to Tangier and Algeciras to Tangier

Trasmed is a good option to the Balearics which offers services tailored to travellers with pets such as designated areas for dogs and cats to travel in comfort. Some Trasmed ferry routes even have pet-friendly cabins with vinyl flooring, welcome kits, access to common areas and recreational dog parks.

Baleària also offers pet-friendly cabins and designated areas, as well as dog houses from where you can follow your pet’s journey through the video tracking system.

READ ALSO: Can Brits move to Spain with their pets post-Brexit?

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Travel between Spain and Morocco

FRS ferries, between Spain and Morocco also allow pets to be transported on board their ships. According to the company “Pets must be transported animal carrier that can be securely closed, is solidly constructed, and can be secured on the vessel”. This means it may not be as comfortable for your pet as the ferries with pet-friendly cabins and areas to run around on deck, but travel time should generally be shorter. 

Travel between Spain and UK

Brittany Ferries allows pets onboard its routes between Bilbao and Portsmouth, Santander and Portsmouth and Santander and Plymouth.

Pets can either travel in your car, in a kennel or in a pet-friendly cabin. The choices available depend on which ship and route you want to take. Cabins are designed to accommodate a single pet, have laminate flooring and air-con. There are also large and small kennels available, with exercise areas. 

READ ALSO: What ferry routes are available between Spain and the UK and Ireland?

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What documents do I need?

In general, whatever country you’re travelling from or even on ferries to Spanish islands, you will need the following documents:

  • Updated health record with latest vaccinations, particularly against rabies.

  • Microchip identification which is mandatory for dogs and cats.

  • A pet passport, if needed. 

  • If travelling from outside the EU, such as from UK, you will need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC).

Getting an AHC

You will need to visit your vet no less than 10 days before your trip in order to get the certificate. To be granted the AHC, you will need proof of your pet’s microchipping date and vaccination history.

AHCs are available as dual-language certificates, so you should ask your vet for a Spanish-language certificate when intending to travel here.

The AHC is valid for 10 days after the date of issue for entry into the EU and can be used for travel within the EU for a period of four months. Keep in mind though, it’s only valid for a single trip to the EU, so if you are planning on travelling back and forth from Spain to the UK for example with your pet, you will need to apply for another certificate.

Passengers to the UK should please be prepared for an inspection by Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs upon entry to ensure that all procedures have been properly followed and that documentation is in order. 

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Tips for travelling with pets on a ferry

  • Book in advance – This is important especially if you’re traveling during peak season as pet-friendly cabins are limited.

  • Take a long walk before boarding – Your pet won’t be able to run around much onboard, this way your pet can release energy and travel more calmly.

  • Get your pet familiar with a muzzle – On many ships its mandatory for your dog must wear a muzzle in all areas of the ship when outside of your vehicle or the kennel/pet-friendly cabin, so they must be comfortable wearing one.

  • Bring pet’s personal items – Make sure to bring your pet’s blanket, toys, or something with their scent on as it will help them relax in a new environment.

  • Avoid giving them food just before the trip – On sea voyages pets can get seasick, so it’s best to avoid giving them a big meal right before you leave.

  • Bring nappy sacks and tissues in case of accidents onboard. 

  • Bring water in a spill-safe container that can be attached to the crate or left on the floor of your vehicle or pet-friendly cabin.

  • Consult your local vet if your pet is very nervous or sensitive to movement to see if they can suggest anything to help.