Taking Your Dog to Spain From the UK in 2026: AHC, Rabies & Travel Rules
Spain is one of the most popular European destinations for UK pet owners. Whether you are driving through France, taking a ferry or flying, the key is to get your pet travel paperwork organised before you leave Great Britain.
Do I need an Animal Health Certificate for Spain?
For most dogs travelling from Great Britain to Spain, you will need an Animal Health Certificate issued by an Official Veterinarian. The certificate records your pet’s microchip, rabies vaccination and travel details.
Your AHC must be issued within 10 days before your pet enters the EU. If you are driving to Spain through France, France is normally your first EU country of entry, so the certificate must be valid when you arrive there.
Microchip and rabies vaccination rules
Your dog must be microchipped and have a valid rabies vaccination. The microchip must have been implanted or read before the rabies vaccination used for travel. Following a first rabies vaccination, you must normally wait at least 21 full days before entering the EU.
A valid booster given before the previous rabies vaccination expires will not normally restart the 21-day waiting period.
Do dogs need tapeworm treatment for Spain?
The specific tapeworm treatment required for entry into Ireland, Finland, Malta, Norway and Northern Ireland is not normally required simply to enter Spain. However, you should always check the requirements for your complete route and your return journey.
Driving to Spain through France
If you are driving from the UK to Spain, your pet will usually cross into the EU in France. Make sure the AHC is ready before you reach the port or Channel Tunnel pet reception. Keep the original rabies vaccination evidence with you when you travel.
Book your AHC before you travel
The Pet Passport Co. provides Animal Health Certificates from £139, with home visits and convenient collection points available across multiple UK locations. Repeat AHCs are available from £119 for eligible returning customers.
Find your nearest service area: https://www.thepetpassportco.co.uk/locations
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