Pets in Italy

Pet Relocation Basics for Italy

Moving to Italy with a pet requires strict adherence to European Union (EU) animal health regulations, with specific administrative steps unique to Italy. The rules differ significantly depending on whether you are arriving from another EU country or from outside the EU ("Third Country").

As of January 2026, the primary framework for non-commercial pet movement is Regulation (EU) No 576/2013. However, be aware that Regulation (EU) 2016/429 (the "Animal Health Law") is set to fully replace previous directives regarding pet movements on April 21, 2026. While the core health requirements (microchip and rabies vaccination) are expected to remain consistent, procedural details may shift after this date.

Core Requirements (The "Golden Trio")

Regardless of your country of origin, three fundamental rules apply to all dogs, cats, and ferrets entering Italy. These must be completed in the exact order listed below.

1. ISO Microchip: Your pet must be identified with a 15-digit microchip that complies with ISO standard 11784/11785.
   • Crucial: The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination. If the vaccination is dated before the microchip implantation date, it is invalid for travel.
2. Rabies Vaccination: The pet must be vaccinated against rabies after the microchip is implanted. The pet must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of vaccination.
3. 21-Day Waiting Period: You cannot travel until 21 days have passed since the primary rabies vaccination. Day 1 is the day after the vaccination.

Documentation by Origin

The paperwork required depends entirely on where your journey begins.

1. Arriving from within the EU

Pets travelling between EU Member States (e.g., France to Italy) require a valid EU Pet Passport. This document is issued by an authorized veterinarian in the country of origin and contains proof of the microchip and valid rabies vaccination.

2. Arriving from a Non-EU Country

If you are arriving from a "Third Country" (e.g., USA, Canada, UK, Australia), you cannot use a standard vet book. You generally need:

• EU Animal Health Certificate: This is a specific document (up to 5 pages) that must be completed by an official veterinarian in your home country.
  • Timing: It is typically valid for travel for 10 days from the date of issue/endorsement.
  • Endorsement: In countries like the USA, this form must be endorsed by the USDA; in Canada, by the CFIA.
• Declaration of Non-Commercial Movement: A form signed by the owner stating the pet is not for sale.

3. "Unlisted" Third Countries

The EU classifies non-EU countries as either "Listed" (controlled rabies risk, e.g., USA, UK, Japan) or "Unlisted" (higher rabies risk, e.g., China, India, Turkey).

If arriving from an Unlisted country, you must complete a Rabies Antibody Titration Test (Titer Test):

• Timing: Blood must be drawn at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
• Waiting Period: You must wait 3 months from the date of the blood draw before entering the EU.
• Result: The antibody level must be at least 0.5 IU/ml.

Entry Points and Customs

Pets entering from non-EU countries must arrive via a designated Travellers' Point of Entry (TPE). Not all airports in Italy are TPEs. Major airports like Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Milan Malpensa (MXP) are authorized, but smaller regional airports may not be. You must check the latest TPE list from the Italian Ministry of Health before booking flights.

Upon arrival, you may be asked to present your documents to the Dogana (Customs) or the UVAC (Veterinary Office) for verification.

The 5-Pet Rule

Under non-commercial movement rules, an individual may travel with a maximum of 5 pets.

• Exception: You may exceed this number only if the animals are travelling for a competition, exhibition, or sporting event. You must provide written proof of registration for the event, and the animals must be over 6 months old.
• If you travel with more than 5 pets without this proof, the movement is classified as "Commercial," triggering significantly more complex import regulations (TRACES system registration, commercial health certificates, and tax implications).

Italian-Specific Rules

Leash and Muzzle Laws

Italy has strict laws regarding pet control in public spaces (Ordinanza Martini):

• Leash: Must be no longer than 1.5 meters (approx. 5 feet) in urban areas.
• Muzzle: You are not required to have the dog wear it at all times, but you are required by law to carry a muzzle with you (soft or rigid) and put it on the dog if requested by authorities or if the situation requires it (e.g., crowded ferries or trains).

Restricted Breeds

Italy revoked its national "dangerous breeds" blacklist in 2009. There is no national ban on breeds like Pitbulls or Rottweilers. However, individual municipalities may have specific bylaws. Notably, Venice has historically enforced stricter rules (muzzling) for certain breeds like Dobermans and Rottweilers. Always check local municipal regulations (Comune).

Puppies and Kittens

Italy generally does not allow the entry of unvaccinated puppies or kittens under 12 weeks old. Since the rabies shot is given at 12 weeks + 21 days wait, the minimum age for entry is effectively 15 weeks.

Birds and Other Species

Traveling with birds involves distinct rules to prevent Avian Influenza:

• Limit: Max 5 birds.
• Health Certificate: Required, issued within 48 hours of travel.
• Requirements: Birds often require isolation before travel or proof of residence in a disease-free zone.

For reptiles and rodents, a general certificate of good health from a vet (issued within 48 hours of departure) is typically sufficient, but verify with the Italian Ministry of Health as rules for these species are less standardized than for dogs/cats.

Post-Arrival: The Anagrafe

Once you arrive and settle in Italy, you have an administrative obligation to register your dog.

Anagrafe degli Animali d'Affezione

This is the national pet registry, managed regionally by the Local Health Authority (ASL - Azienda Sanitaria Locale).

• Mandatory: For all dogs.
• Voluntary: For cats (though highly recommended).
• Timing: Typically within 10 to 30 days of arrival, depending on the specific region (e.g., Emilia-Romagna requires it within 30 days).
• Process: Visit the veterinary services office of your local ASL. You will need your passport, Codice Fiscale (tax code), and the pet's documents.
• Cost: Fees are nominal, generally ranging from 8 EUR to 30 EUR ($8.30 - $31.20 USD, Jan 2026). Failure to register can result in fines starting around 78 EUR ($81 USD, Jan 2026) up to several hundred euros.