James Cargo Services Blog

Taking a Dog or Cat to France

First you need to know non-commercial pet transport rules to EU countries, since France comes under the list.

Here are the general rules you need to follow for taking your dog or cat to France:

Step 1: Get an Animal Health Certificate for Pet Travel to France

Before taking your dog or cat to France, the most important document you need is an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). To get it, you first need to make sure that your pet is microchipped before or when you get them vaccinated against Rabies. Your pet needs to be around 3 months or 12 weeks old for getting a rabies vaccination

When vaccinated, you’ll need to wait for 21 days before your pet is ready to move to France. Make sure to get the vaccination early, as UK standard vaccinations last for at least three years. You also need to check whether your pet needs a booster vaccination

After rabies vaccination, you’ll get a vaccination card or vaccination certificate as a proof that your pet has got the vaccination. The cost of vaccination varies, but typically it ranges from £40-100.

To get an AHC, you'll need to provide the following information:

• Pet details, including the 15-digit microchip number
• Rabies vaccination date
• Rabies vaccine batch number and manufacturer
• Vet's stamp and signature confirming the vaccination

Note: While France doesn't require routine annual vaccinations to be up to date, it's advisable to keep them current.

Step 2: Look for Travellers' points of entry for Taking your Pets to France

For travelling with your dog or cat to France, you can choose whether you want to travel with your pet by air, sea or land.

Most people choose to travel by road instead of air transport. However, for long journeys, pet owners choose to fly with their pets. French authorities do not specify any particular routes for pet entry. Private transport, including boats and other means, is allowed.

Before booking your Animal Health Certificate (AHC) appointment, make sure you know your travel date to France. The AHC must be issued within 10 days of your trip and at least 21 days after the rabies vaccination.

If your pet dog or cat is traveling with a friend, family member, or pet transport company, you (the owner) must travel within 5 days of your pet’s departure. If you are traveling more than 5 days later, you'll need an Export Health Certificate instead.

Step 3: Pet Travel to France with Animal Health Certificate

Once you have the Animal Health Certificate (AHC), you're ready for pet travel to France. Make sure you depart within 10 days of the AHC issuance, or you'll need a new one. Ports have varying procedures for pet check-ins (they'll inform you during booking), but typically, you'll take your pet to the pet reception, scan their microchip, and verify the AHC details.

The AHC is valid for further travel within the EU (including Switzerland and Norway) for 4 months from its issue date, or until your pet's rabies vaccination expires, whichever comes first. If leaving the EU (like returning to the UK), you’ll need a new AHC to re-enter.

Step 4: Tapeworm Treatment Requirement for Dogs Returning to the UK

Tapeworm treatment is required for dogs only and must be administered between 1 and 5 days before returning to the UK. This treatment is necessary for re-entry into the UK.

Step 5: Choose an Approved Route for Bringing Pets to the UK from France

Choose and verify that your travel route is approved for pets while returning from France to the UK. If you're traveling within the UK or from Ireland, an approved route is not required.

Dog Breeds Banned from Traveling to France

France has strict breed-specific laws for dangerous dogs, with some breeds banned or restricted for import.

Category 1: Banned Breeds

Category 1 dogs are considered dangerous and cannot be imported. These include:

• Staffordshire Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier (Pitbull)
• Japanese Tosa Inu
• Boerbull Mastiff

These breeds cannot be transported to France by air, either in the cabin or cargo. They must be sterilized, always kept on a leash and muzzled in public, and cannot access public transport or places.

Category 2: Restricted Breeds

Category 2 dogs are pedigreed guard dogs allowed with restrictions. Breeds include:

• Pedigree Tosa Inu
• Pedigree Staffordshire Terrier
• Pedigree American Staffordshire Terrier
• Rottweiler (pedigree and non-pedigree)

Owners must obtain a license, undergo a behavioural assessment, complete a training course, and have liability insurance. These dogs must be sterilized, vaccinated, and kept on a leash and muzzled in public.

International Pet Transport to France

Taking your pet dog or cat to France can be challenging, especially during an international move. There are specific import requirements that must be fulfilled for your pet to enter the country.

If you're planning to travel to France with your pet, reach out to the pet movers at James Cargo Service for guidance on international pet transport and a tailored travel plan for your pet.